Fashion trends come and go and then come back around again, as is life. Now, I have a question for you: Were these 18 trends better during their inception or now?
1.Velour tracksuits first made it big in the 2000s — as seen on Paris Hilton, then later on Kylie Jenner in 2021. The close-fit pants and cropped zip-up bring together comfort and glamour in a trend that was definitely better in the '90s, IMO.
2.Corsets have recently seen a resurgence thanks to Bridgerton, though the style dates back to the 16th and 20th centuries, hitting its peak popularity during the Victorian era. Made to bind the waist, the then-popular style has come back in today's world, albeit, this time they're a bit more comfortable. I'm a fan of modern-day corsets. They're cute as heck.
3.Low-rise jeans are back again — tell a friend! The low-slung style was first populated by the release of Alexander McQueen's now-iconic bumster trousers in '96. Stars like Britney Spears made the trend big in the 2000s and now; Gen Z has brought them back... And I hate it! I survived low-rise jeans once, and I refuse to do it again.
4.The '80s- and '90s-style biker shorts are everywhere now. Originally designed to make biking more comfortable, in today's world, biker shorts are still a staple (as seen on model Cindy Bruna, Gigi Hadid, and Damaris Lewis).
5.Chunky sneakers were a big thing in the '80s and usually boasted a sporty style. Nowadays, the trend has taken a turn and moved into the high fashion sphere with brands like Gucci and Balenciaga releasing their own designs. I'm a fan of the original street style look, TBH.
6.Nineties mom jeans have always been around. Initially considered uncool, these jeans were usually worn by middle-aged moms and first appeared on the scene showing off a high waist and relaxed straight leg hem. (If you're wondering, mom jeans are different from boyfriend jeans due to the shorter length!) Now, everyone's wearing them, and they should always be considered cool, IMO, because they're cute and comfy, too.
7.Platform shoes were a big part of the disco era (aka the '70s) and came back around in the '90s thanks to punk trends. Now, platform shoes are seen everywhere, from Lady Gaga-style heels to Converse. Every version of this trend deserves respect TBH.
8.Hoop skirts call back to the antebellum era and per the rise of Bridgerton-style looks, maximize social distancing guidelines in today's world. While they're not seen very often, the vintage style def reigned supreme way back in the day.
9.In the '60s, silk scarves were seriously everywhere, on everyone... And they're still big today. Now popular again, silk scarves have found a new life, seen in IG pics repurposed as slinky strapless shirts, handbag accessories, and of course, hair ties.
10.Shoulder pads are in again — have you heard? The '80s are back for better or worse. Initially meant as a suit of armor as women entered the workforce, did you know that the trend first emerged in the 1930s by designers like Marcel Rochas and Elsa Schiaparelli. Today, shoulder pads are seen in cool blazers and fancy tops, adding a fun kick to a classic silhouette.
11.Scrunchies never went out of style for me — but they did first hit the scene in the late '80s, made popular because they didn't pull at your hair as much. Today, they're on everyone's wrists or holding up a high-pony.
12.Corduroy pants were super popular in the 1970s, and they're back in a big way — this time with an extra flared hem!
13.Midi-denim skirts can be associated with a few eras — most notably, the '70s flower child! Initially, denim skirts were thought of as a way to reappropriate worn jeans and gained traction over time. They reemerged in the 2000s, and now, they're back for a third time — as seen on Bella Hadid. How cute!
14.Those tiny butterfly claw clips were once all the rage in the '90s. I mean, we all had 'em and piled the tiny plastic accessories into our hair with wild abandon. Mary-Kate and Ashley were once my style inspiration. Today, they've transformed into a major thing again!
15.Prairie-style dresses originated during the mid-19th century and were known for their durability and practicality. In the 1970s and '80s, they redefined the style, adding in a flouncy silhouette and mid-calf hem. Now, with the emergence of cottage-core, these dresses are back with a vengeance.
16.Loafers first became popular in the '50s and were considered a practical style during that time. Today, they're still seen around, though paired with various styles other than prep-school polo shorts.
17.Crochet has been around for a while, but now it's practically everywhere — from knitted bags to bucket hats to cute short sets.
18.Sweater vests were first popular in the '70s and had a certain charm to them. Today, they're cute as can be and go with everything from oversized button-downs to vintage T-shirts.
