Crop tops, platform heels and hot pants have ruled the fashion industry since when we were younger. From depictions of characters on TV rocking the skimpiest outfits, to our favorite celebrities being criticized in the tabloids for the amount of skin they were showing, wearing clothes that showed off our figures was heavily idolized.
Several iconic moments have come out of wearing revealing clothes, like Christina Aguilera’s 2002 VMAs wrap top or Jennifer Lopez’s 2000 Grammys dress. This begs the question: what is the future direction of the fashion industry and how does this compare to old trends? The verdict is in: grandma is en vogue.
Modesty and Business Casual
Now hear VALLEY out: we know that wearing curtains is probably what you’re thinking of, but we promise it’s nothing like that. There’s been a rise in modest clothes, with sweaters and full-length pants worn even during the summer. Silhouettes have also taken a more free approach, with a lack of tight apparel in and out of the runway. Ankle-length skirts are practically in every fashionista’s closet nowadays! Whether this is a part of the cycle of fashion or a permanent twist in the industry, VALLEY is definitely curious.
Additionally, there’s been a lack of colorful and egregious patterns when it comes to streetwear. Muted colors and rather professional-looking outfits have been seen out and about, even in nightlife places. Now VALLEY is not saying that fashion is turning to the millennial business casual/cardigan at the club vibes, but we’re also not saying that it’s returning to the tight and thin outfits we’re used to.
Expressing Fun
On the other hand, when it comes to choosing non-muted colors with clothing articles, there has been a rise of certain patterns. Though it’s not exactly the Jess from “New Girl” kind of prints, we definitely see an upward trend of funky patterns as a way of expressing “fun.” Out with the same old polka dots and stripes, and in with the swirls and shapes that are hard to describe as anything but grandma-esque.
Finally, stacking chunky jewelry has been an incredibly popular trend of late which, of course, VALLEY loves. Now this might not seem inherently grandma, but we would advocate for the fact that it is! Think about what your elders usually wear: lockets, pearls, big rings etc. These have all been featured in the outfit inspo that influencers post, along with trends on the runway. Face it: grandma-core has been around for a while and it’s not going anywhere.
The Importance of Individuality
It might seem disappointing to some that at the height of our young adult lives there has been a spike in modest clothing. However, we would like to clarify that it doesn’t mean in any way that you can’t dress the way you choose! Conformity kills creativity, and the last thing VALLEY wants to see is a lack of individuality in the industry. So yes, it might definitely seem like grandma is in, but VALLEY loves to see everyone’s own style too!
What are your thoughts on this shift in fashion? Let @VALLEYmag know on X!
Related
The Rise of Neutrals
“Superfine” Black Fashion Icons
METAL METAMORPHOSIS: A GUIDE TO JEWELRY METAL SWITCHING
