Modern trend cycles go incredibly quickly due to the abuse of social media and fashion content. Fashion seasons turned to months, which turned to weeks, which are now turning to days. The oversaturation of clothing items on our feeds is messing with our brains and causing landfill overflow.
As an avid listener to the Anything Goes with Emma Chamberlain podcast, as well as a certified fashion enthusiast, I've been inspired to recreate one of Emma's most popular series, Trendy or Timeless.
As teenagers figure out their style, it's important not to fall victim to trend cycles. In this article, I will discuss some of the most popular items right now, and if they will still be sought after in the coming years.
Trendy: Loose-Knit
As summer creeps in, I've been seeing loose-knit everywhere. For festivals, the beach, or Taylor Swift concerts, this look has made its mark as the weather warms.
This dramatically spaced look is cute, but totally impractical. How many times do you think Alix Earle had to attempt to put her head in the right gap? In addition, it doesn't work as the cover-up it is often intended as; nothing is being covered or warmed.
Because of this, I would say that this style is trendy. It won't be despised in a year, or even a decade, but it will go out of style quite soon.
If you're looking for something to throw on over a bikini, look for thin linen pants or a sarong wrap.
Timeless: Denim Everything
We've been seeing denim-on-denim in different variations for years.
When working-style combined with casual in 1950s America, denim became a staple in every wardrobe. Since then, you could never go wrong. In the 1970s, we had bellbottoms and vests; in the 80s, acid-washed mom jeans and jackets; in the 2000s, mini skirts and halter tops. No matter what decade you look at, "denim everything" has made its mark.
Of course, fashion will change with time, but in 2023, go for low-waisted flared pants and a denim crop top to be in style. Buy quality denim instead of fast fashion, and have fun with it!
Trendy: Off-the-Shoulder
Maybe I'm biased because I've never liked this look, but a one-shouldered top or dress is totally trendy. Above, Camila Morrone may get a pass, as it looks as though her sleeve just stylishly fell down. However, I've been seeing an influx of mono-shouldered bikinis and tops.
This look is unflattering on anybody who wears it, and looks borderline tacky. I've seen A-List celebrities wear the most expensive off-the-shoulder shirts, and they still fall short.
If you want to survive the heat and show off your shoulders, look towards a halter top. Or, if the off-the-shoulder look really calls to you, aim for something that sits below both shoulders.
Timeless: Statement Sweater
Even as the sun shines hotter, people want to feel cosy. A bold sweater is year-round and timeless. A good quality knit sweater can last for years and can be such a comfort in a wardrobe.
Paired with cotton shorts and a good book, or jeans and cute loafers, there are no limits. I recommend stopping by your nearest second-hand store for a signature sweater. Look in both the men's and women's sections for a holistic search.
Emma Chamberlain does it best, so scroll through her Instagram page for the perfect outfit inspo!
Timeless: Knee High Boots
Since these boots are so timeless, they've never really gone out of style. However, they managed to surge in popularity last winter, and have only continued to grow since.
Paired with a miniskirt and a blowout, knee-highs have been all the rage since the 1970s. Recently, fashion enthusiasts have been experimenting with styles and patterns, and we've even seen a revitalization of knee-high cowboy boots!
When looking to purchase a pair, aim for quality and be prepared to invest a good chunk of money. It's totally worth it, as you'll be able to wear them for decades to come.
Trendy: Bold Sunglasses
Don't get me wrong, sunglasses can never go out of style; their practical features greatly outweigh whatever aesthetic repulsions people have. Nonetheless, large, almost statement, sunglasses have been making a reappearance since going out of style in the late 2000s.
Celebrities like Doja Cat have been sporting these unique shades. Big-name brands like Dulce & Gabbana and Versace have launched large-scale eyewear collections, embracing the trend. Everywhere you look, a new pair of sunglasses has hit the market.
However, these are definitely trendy and will be laughed at in years to come. Bold accessories are hard to perfect, as they often become incredibly oversaturated in the media. I mean, just look at those chunky resin rings from 2020!
Have fun with your shades, but I would recommend using your savings on a classy pair of sunglasses, rather than these popular ones.
Timeless: Long Bodycon Dress
Dresses go in and out of style almost as fast as accessories; it's like clockwork. However, to beat the trend cycles, stick to the long bodycon dress. This look has had a place in fashion since the 1930s— and for good reason. A long bodycon dress shows off the figure of the person wearing it, making it flattering on anybody.
It's a perfect base, with endless styling options. Classically, it can be worn with a set of heels and a clutch purse, appropriate for a gala or a nice dinner. However, it can also be worn with a sweater and a pair of nice sneakers, taking it down a notch. The simplicity of it leads to an incredibly cost-effective piece that won't just collect dust.
Above is the trendy SKIMS dress, the brand created by Kim Kardashian. If you're worried about the SKIMS dress going out of style, don't worry; the good quality and classy look makes it absolutely timeless.
Trendy: Sequins
The concert renaissance combined with the Euphoria explosion has made sequins and rhinstones a big trend in the last few years. Just because they've spread themselves out over a year or two, however, does not make them timeless. Due to the cheap (not to mention eco-toxic) materials they're made of, these sparkly accessories tend to turn up tacky.
Yes, they're pretty, and no, you shouldn't avoid the fun look. Just be aware that in a few years, you might look back and wrinkle your nose. If you're looking for a shiny but timeless touch to your outfits, keep scrolling!
Timeless: Metallic
If you're craving the shine of sequins, look no further than a metallic fabric. Like many of my timeless picks, metallic has a base in history. It became ultra-desirable at the 1930s beginnings of Hollywood and reached the general public in the 70s.
Metallic fabric screams "utopia," a concept that people will continue to strive to achieve for the rest of humanity. This future ideal makes metallic a statement in an outfit while elevating it to a more stylish level. You don't have to go full-metal like Bella Hadid, but there are certainly accessories that you can integrate into your daily wardrobe.
Look for unique metallic pieces so you don't blend in, like boots or gloves. The world is your oyster with this one, so try and experiment!
Trendy: Animal Print
Animal print is kitsch. Someone had to say it. The luxurious yet cruel furs of the 20th century's rich and famous trickled down to department stores, lacking quality.
Because of this and its overuse in the media, animal print is trendy. It goes in and out of style too quickly to track, with a surge in popularity in the early 2000s, a hatred in the 2010s, and now back on trend.
If you're looking to make a statement, try a pop of color or experiment with patterns. If you want texture, learn how to layer with knits and nylons. If you want something unique, try a new shoe. Whatever you do, don't fall victim to animal print.
It is likely that with time, the trend cycles will start to move faster and faster. Because of this, it's important to find your own style, made up of pieces that will last. Our planet is already dying and the fast fashion industry has had such a negative impact on global warming; everyone should play a part in stopping it. I hope this article helped you rethink some future purchases.
