Looking at upcoming forecasts and trends in 2024, we can turn to the runways and the internet to predict and show us what we will wear in these early months. The question is, what trends do we leave in 2023, and what will we embrace in 2024? With the increase in microtrends and fashion through social media over the past few years, we are already seeing many trends targeted at the new year. Let's take a look:
Old is In
One of the first, and by far the biggest microtrends that has taken the internet by storm is that of the Eclectic Grandpa. Pinterest coined this term, a spin on last year's microtrend' Coastal Grandmother'. Many celebrities have already taken this trend over with influence from people such as Tyler the Creator, Kendall Jenner, and Harry Styles. It combines vintage clothing, busy patterns, and custom and unique pieces. This trend is sending mixed signals, as it is romanticizing custom, well-made pieces, and a higher quality of clothing (wardrobes that most likely took years to build), but remains a micro-trend in a world with enormous influence by cheap and fast fashion. Especially with an influx of microtrends, consumers must pick and choose the trends they follow, as it is unsustainable and expensive to follow every wardrobe refresh the internet offers. As much as we can appreciate the recognition this trend gives to well-made clothing, we have to remember the reality of what this style will become. It will likely be on the back burner after a few months or weeks, even unless those in love with the look turn it into a style rather than a trend.
Florals
Turning away from the influx of social media trends, we looked at what designers are claiming for the New Year, as well as what Spring 2024 may bring. One thing we saw a lot on the runway was florals. Rather than dainty florals, we are seeing bigger and bolder patterns, to which we ask, are we reverting to 2016 florals? Some brands are styling these intrepid patterns with minimal accessories, and others are taking a different approach, such as adding florals more literally. One example of this was the Simone Rocha show, which showcased the use of roses more elegantly and elevatedly. The consensus on this trend depends on what type of look you are going for with your flowers.
Are Bottoms Out?
A second look we have been seeing on the runways for this upcoming year has been micro-shorts and a more 'no-pants' look. One of the most prominent brands to participate in this trend, or trend to be, was Miu Miu. We saw numerous outfits showcasing the micro-shorts, with all types of accessories, tucked-in shirts, and layering. They not only styled shorts but also micro-skirts and board short-looking pieces. The entire collection aimed to combine elevated pieces such as blazers and dress shirts with casual shorts and shoes/sandals. For looks including full-length pants, they often lacked shirts and were only paired with accessories in anticipation of the warmer months. These looks are nodding at early 2000 prep, remixed with early 2000 board and surf, reminding us of teen fashion in the late 90s and the Y2K. Brands such as Miu Miu have overtaken an aesthetic that was largely dominated by teen stores like Abercrombie and Fitch and Hollister.
Notable mention: The long and maxi skirt trends from 2023 keep their effect in 2024, but we are noticing more volume contrasting their flowy counterparts in 2023. We are seeing that numerous stylists and brands, such as Bottega Veneta and Staud, are implementing more of these skirts and their recent collections, hinting that they will be all the rage in the new year.
Overall, in the new year and as we transition into spring, we will see trends and pieces we have seen before but done in tasteful and different ways, remaining cautious of microtrends.
By Ani Grigsby
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