In times of great upheaval, we often look to the past for inspiration – to times that were simpler, less frightening and, to our minds, better. Fashion works in pretty much the same way and these past two years have brought back the fashions of the previous eras with a bang.
For example, the most notable element in Nicolas Ghesquière’s 2020 Cruise collection for Louis Vuitton was the bubble skirt (also known as the puffball skirt). Reminiscent of the time women everywhere wore skirts on jeans and belts on skirts (the early 00s), the bubble skirt was a questionable choice then but its revival is much more classy. Donned in futuristic designs, colours, patterns, and materials, it’s a trend that will probably not last long but one which will make for some beautiful fashion – as has been shown by the likes of Sophie Turner and Celine Dion.
This is followed by the uber-comfortable wrap dress, which was invented in the 1930s and made a return in 2018 on catwalks across the globe. Whether styled with a pair of wedges for a casual look or with high-heels and statement jewellery for a more formal look, we’d be happy to see this trend stay in our wardrobes.
The same can be said for high necklines – be it as polo necks, frilled high-collared shirts or wrap-around tops. This trend, rebirthed after the death of designer Karl Lagerfeld and socialite Lee Radziwill, which they both sported, is among the most luxurious and versatile – as was shown on the red carpet of the 2019 Oscars and many fashion weeks since.
These trends are complemented by the reentering of peg trousers and oversized jackets into many-a-runway and -clothing-store, giving us nostalgia for the 70s, 80s, 90s, and 00s all at one go. And it’s not set to stop, either. 2020 will see the return of pleated pants, puff shoulders, frills, animal prints, puff sleeves and fanny packs – some of which have already entered the wardrobes of the fashion-conscious.
While the styles are, of course, different from how they were originally worn, vintage is never a bad way to go when it comes to revival clothing – particularly for the environment. So if you love any of these trends, our advice is to hit your closest vintage, charity or second-hand shop and to get your hands on the trends that way.
