By Anna Bai
With fashion evolving at an ever-increasing rate, it sometimes feels like there’s a new trend popping up every week. But how many of these trends are actually new? Here are a few recent trends that prove that being “fashion forward” is not always about being forward.
Corsets
Corsets and other similar garments date back to the late 16th century and were a staple in women’s wardrobes for centuries. After all, shapewear and undergarments as we know them today were not invented until the early 20th century. Today, corsets (or stays, the corset’s predecessor) can be seen in a wide variety of styles, ranging from sexy strapless tops to casual accent pieces worn over blouses.
Big Hair
Farrah Fawcett would be flattered to know that her iconic 70’s blowout has made a comeback to the 21st century. Tutorials on how to recreate this voluminous hairstyle can be found all over TikTok. With the modern addition of some long curtain bangs, this style has become a favorite among Gen-Z members of all backgrounds.
Eccentric Sweaters
With the increasing popularity of thrift/vintage shopping has come an increase in brightly-colored, oddly-patterned jumpers and cardigans dating back to the 70s, 80s, and 90s. This trend is a great way to practice sustainable consumption as these fun sweaters are mostly found second-hand in oppose to being newly produced. Even better, many of these sweaters are made from natural fibers such as wool, alpaca, and cotton.
The Y2K Aesthetic
From low-rise jeans to velour tracksuits, the early 2000s are making a slow comeback among young adults across various social media platforms. These outfits, affectionately labeled “Y2K”, provide another opportunity to shop sustainably as they can easily be found in thrift stores. While millennials may shudder to think of these trends making a comeback, some teenagers gladly embrace these looks, which are made complete with shimmery eyeshadow and butterfly clips.
The rise of fashion trends from previous decades leaves us to wonder, which decades and styles will make a comeback next? The possibilities are endless, and the history of fashion is extensive. Let us know which trends you think should make a comeback down below!