The Best and Worst Fashion Trends of the Past Decade
BY ROXY ALLNUTT
A nostalgic reflection of the 2010s
29 JUL - 2023
Strictly IMO
We stan our current fashion trendsetters, Bella, Rihanna, Matilda, etc. But where were they when some of the biggest shitshow of fashion trends became the thing? I’ve put together a pretty laughable journey through the fashion landscape of the past decade. Still paying homage to the trends that we live by today but also the moments that made us want to bury our heads in shame. From epic wins to cringe-worthy fails, let's take a stroll down memory lane and revisit the fashion trends that have shaped our closets (for better or worse) over the years.
The Best
Athleisure
Let's start with a trend that saved us from the tyranny of uncomfortable fashion: athleisure. Yoga pants, leggings, and stylish workout gear became acceptable outside the gym, giving us the freedom to rock a sporty look while still looking effortlessly cool. Brands that have brought this to life are AJE Athletica, Taylor Sport, Stirling Women and Style Runner. Rocking this religiously, we thank Hailey Beiber and Sofia Richie Grange.
Oversized Everything
Who doesn't love a little extra room to breathe? We said goodbye to tight, restrictive clothes and hello to oversized comfort. Baggy sweaters, slouchy shirts, and flowy dresses became the epitome of laid-back style. It’s like a warm, cosy hug filled with confidence and style.
Sustainable Fashion
As awareness about environmental issues grew, so did the popularity of sustainable fashion. From eco-friendly fabrics to ethical production practices, this trend allowed us to make a positive impact on the planet while still wearing clothes we love. So much attention has been paid to the way we dispose of our clothes and thrifted goods hold way more value than they used to.
Power Suits
Power suits and everyday blazers made a fierce comeback, empowering women everywhere with their oversized tailoring and confident silhouettes. Whether in bold colours or classic neutrals, these suits made a statement that screamed "I mean business." Walk anywhere these days and you’ll see a number of girls rocking blazers while looking amazing.
Sneaker Culture
In the last decade, sneakers became a cultural phenomenon. Collecting limited-edition kicks and proudly displaying sneakerhead status became the norm, plus it was making a lot of people a lot of money. A revolution that blurred the lines between sports and fashion, uniting sneaker enthusiasts worldwide. Sneaker stores flood Melrose Ave in LA with shoes displayed all the way up to the ceilings, and sure enough, the world followed suit with sneaker pop-ups everywhere.
Denim Everything
Denim has always been in the fashion scene, making its way into every aspect of our wardrobes. From denim jackets to denim dresses and even denim accessories, this trend still thrives today bringing a cool and effortless vibe to our daily outfits. From festivals to the workplace, everyone has time for some denim action.
The Worst
Micro Bags
Okay, who do we blame for micro bags? Sure, they looked cute and adorable, but when it comes to practicality, they’re an absolute nightmare. It’s like carrying a glorified coin purse that taunted us with its lack of functionality. Let's face it, fashion should be fabulous and functional, not an exercise in frustration.
Extreme Cutouts
Cutouts in clothing took a turn for the extreme, with designs featuring more holes than fabric. While a well-placed cutout can be alluring, these exaggerated versions left us feeling like we were wearing garments that had been through a paper shredder.
Harem Pants
Ah, harem pants. Those billowy, parachute-like trousers made us resemble a mix between a genie and a clown. Oh my gosh EVERYONE in high school couldn't get enough of these Bassique pants which I can't help but gag over now. They promised comfort but delivered nothing but a fashion disaster.
Clear Plastic Everything
Transparent handbags, see-through raincoats, and plastic shoes may have seemed like a futuristic fashion dream but fell out of popularity one season later. Dealing with sweaty palms and revealing the contents of our bags to the world? No, thank you! Let's leave this trend in the past, where it belongs.
Tiny Sunglasses
Picture this: you're wearing sunglasses so small that they barely cover your eyelashes, let alone shield your eyes from the sun. Yup, tiny sunglasses were all the rage for some inexplicable reason. Do we blame Kayne for telling Kim to stop wearing big shades as he styled her with these minuscule things? Another one we leave in the past, shall we?
So here's to the next decade of fashion adventures, where we'll continue to slay, make bold choices, and maybe even cringe a little. I’m sensing corset tops and cargo pants are next.
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