Fashion is portrayed as constant change filled with trends and short-lived ideals. The seemingly continuous developments in fashion are known to either draw in people who search for a sense of superiority or “haute couture”, while at the same time stray others away from trends, as they are deemed expensive and difficult to follow. Luckily there is a perfect comfort zone between both ideals that includes pieces that will always be “in-style” or fated to cycle back.
Fashion means change, replacements, and new habits, but fashion is also a pattern depicting modernity through a constant renewal of common fashion taste.
What does that mean? This means that fashion is simply a “myth of change,” an illusion.
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Christy Turlington at Chanel Haute Couture Spring/Summer 1993 show (above), and Lily-Rose Depp at Met gala 2019 (below).
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The idea of trends and modernity is a cycle of change that repeats. Infinite recycling, which some say contradicts the entire idea of fashion. They say it discredits and contradicts the innovation and progress of the art of fashion.
Not necessarily, this theory just strengthens the link between linear modernity and cyclical fashion. This is clearly shown in the repetition of fashion trends that are rediscovered with a contemporary twist.
People are known to stray away from fashion trends simply because it is ever-changing or hard to keep up with when in reality fashion is a cycle, so whatever is trendy now has been popular before and will be popular again.
With that in mind, there are definitely some timeless pieces, or “fixed costumes”, which will continue as a style constant that experience very few changes over time. These are the pieces that you should invest in.
“Fashions fade, style is eternal.” —Yves Saint Laurent
Leather Jackets:
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After being introduced into the fashion world in 1928, leather jackets have never gone out of style. Have they evolved? Yes.
From 1950s biker greaser look jackets to 2020 model off duty oversized jackets, the styling has changed but the look will forever be a classic. Not to mention most leather jackets seen on Pinterest, Instagram, or TikTok are vintage thrift jackets. Whatever your style is and however you decide to express yourself, a leather jacket will always add to your outfit.
Statement Pants
You are probably thinking “How would statement pants ever be a timeless piece?”, and you are right they do seem like something you could get sick of quickly, BUT it is definitely a trend that is repeating. From the 60s to the 80s bold pants were a staple. Cool pants will ALWAYS bump up your fashion credibility, so when building your dream wardrobe don't be afraid to stray from the plain.
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Headscarves
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Head scarfs scream Audrey Hepburn and 1950-60s Hollywood movie star. Silk or satin scarves being used as hair accessories have made many comebacks throughout the years and have definitely been a staple in 2020 fashion. Accessories are one of those items which may go in or out of fashion, but will never stop being stylish. If you are looking for trendy accessories that will never look out of place, head scarfs are the way to go.
Mom jeans
Mom Jeans have been a staple in everyone's closet for a while, so it's not very necessary to reiterate this point too much. Mom jeans look great on everyone, can be dressed up or down, and are overall such a versatile piece of clothes. They have resurfaced after being super popular in the 80s, and are a trend that looks great and is so easy to pair with anything.
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Puffed “Princess” Sleeves
Puffed sleeves appeared first in the Renaissance, and have since then gone through various transformations. Throughout time puffed sleeves have been innovated by changing length, structure, gathering, etc. but their popularity is yet to disappear. These sleeves are obviously recognizable and nothing new, so it is amazing how they have kept reappearing throughout history.
In the 1800s-1900s, they were adored for their ability to create the “desirable” hourglass figure. Times have changed but these gorgeous sleeves continue to make their way onto runways.
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Gogo boots
Out of ALL of these key trends Gogo boots are the most fun. Chunky boots have been seen in recent trends, and Gogo boots are a branch of chunky boots. These 70s superheroes or Scooby-Doo type boots look great in any color and with almost every outfit. Gogo boots will always be stylish, so go out and take your pick and you will not regret it.
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Finally, remember style is a very personal and subjective thing. Never force yourself to follow popular trends solely because they are trendy. Wear whatever you want with confidence and you will look amazing. These are just some of the most timeless and reoccurring “trends” to take inspiration from.