Y2K-2015: How have fashion trends evolved over the years?

Mention certain decades of the past such as the 40s, 60s or 80s and we immediately draw attention to the fashion trends of that time. From the introduction of The New Look by Dior in 1947 to the mod era of Twiggy in the 60s and the exaggerated, adventurous trends of the 80s – we’re pretty much familiar with every iconic style of the  20th century.

But if you try to recall trends of the past 15 years, could you pin-point one or two distinct looks that defined the years from 2000s to 2010s? We thought so.

It’s hard to go through every trend that’s had its 15 minutes of fame since year 2000, since people have been overlapping trends from previous decades and mashing-up what already exists. The early 2000s saw a dying off of 90s fashion (remember emulating the outfits from movies like  Clueless?) and heavy influences from hiphop and pop music – reminding us significantly of 80s athletic-wear styles. The rise of technology also brought on globalisation, making fashion from all around the world accessible. Casual kimonos, maxi skirts and looser silhouettes inspired ‘bohemian chic‘ and the increasing interest in vintage wear and hippie looks of the 70s.

Notably, developments in technology have led fashion’s elite to influence audiences through the new medium of street style, and possibly revolutionised the way we view trends now. Designers are getting inspired by less-conventional ‘celebrities’ such as fashion bloggers, It girls and social media stars who are often photographed for what they wear at fashion weeks. Labels are paying attention to what these girls wear to work, to run errands, go for music festivals and Sunday brunches – something designers of the past didn’t necessarily begin their creative process with. For instance, Marc Jacobs named a bag after blogger Bryanboy and launched a model search on Instagram (#castmeMarc) to find his latest campaign models. Karl Lagerfeld made model-turned-DJ Alice Dellal his muse and campaign star. Trends are now ever-evolving and sprouting from many different sources.

Another unique medium would be one that kickstarted the normcore movement. The term was first introduced by the trend forecasters at K-Hole, spiraling the fashion world into a frenzy of anti-difference and total normalcy. Being one of the most significant trends of the 2010s, the masses were intrigued by the easy, carefree but polished vibe the look exudes, with edgy labels such as Acne Studios, Celine and Balenciaga leading the pack as the epitome of effortless cool.

So now the question stands – where will we draw inspiration for the newest trend next? When the internet and even streetwalkers who could have been the very pioneers of the now worshiped ordinary dressing made all the rage, the possibilities are endless… and honestly we’re excited.

Nur Syazana H.