Looking Back at Iconic Trends From the 2010s

 The countdown to a new decade is always exciting but it is especially important for true fashion lovers.

Fashion has a way of expressing the social and political sentiments of a decade. The prominent designers of that time period can influence how fashion will evolve. This makes us wonder which trends and designers defined the 2010s. As we speculate as to how fashion will transform in the 2020s, let’s look back at style statements from the last 10 years. 

Fashion Feminism

The late Karl Lagerfield was not only known for his iconic designs. He also used the political climate as a source of influence for his collections. In 2017 he was at the helm of his Chanel SS15 show and turned the event into a feminist march. The models carried signs promoting gender equality while presenting Lagerfield’s designs to the general public. 

The High-Low Dress

We get it, it can be difficult to choose between long and short dresses; sometimes either look would complement the occasion! This style became a chic way to have the best of both worlds and had a feeling of party in the front, business in the back. With some still supporting the trend and others who find it unflattering, there is no telling whether the high-low dress will make an appearance in the next decade. 

Recycle and Rebrand

One of the major trends that we’ve seen in the 2010s is a resurgence of brands like Champion and Fila. They were sold in discount department stores like Walmart throughout the 1990s and 2000s and grew more exclusive with their rebranding in the 2010s. Recent trends like chunky sneakers and vintage oversized sweaters often come from these brands. 

Low Rise Jeans

This is a trend that you’ll either love or hate. It gained momentum in the 2000s and showed up sporadically in the 2010s. Some say that it is impractical for anyone who does not fit within a certain body type and less comfortable than the high waist alternative. Even so, these denims are rumored to resurge in the next decade. 

Normalizing Inclusivity

Olivier Rousteing, the creative director of Balmain, is one of the most influential young designers of the last decade. As an African-American man, he emphasizes the need for diversity on runways and uses that lack of representation to fuel his work. His insight is refreshing and we are curious as to how the fashion house will continue to evolve under his direction.  

Colorful Tights

This trend was inspired by the popular 1980’s look and it made a strong comeback in the 2010’s. The bold statement appeared on shows like Gossip Girl and if Blair Waldorf wore it then it was good enough for us. While the tights gained traction, we’re not sure if they were sheer genius or just another fad. 

Fashion is evolving, but that doesn’t mean we have to scrap the trends from the last decade. Dedicate a throwback day to your wardrobe and tag us @theedgemag to be featured.