The 2010s were a transformative decade for fashion, marked by the rise of athleisure, the royal influence of Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle, the birth of the street style star, and a renewed focus on inclusivity and diversity. Let’s delve into the seven key fashion trends that defined this era.
1. The Rise of Athleisure: From Gym to Streetwear
The 2010s witnessed the blurring of lines between workout wear and everyday attire. The rise of boutique fitness culture fueled demand for stylish and functional activewear. Yoga pants, sports bras, and leggings, once confined to the gym, transitioned into mainstream fashion, thanks to innovative fabrics, vibrant colors, and bold patterns. Brands like Outdoor Voices, Vuori Clothing, and Bandier capitalized on this trend, while established players like Lululemon and Athleta solidified their market positions. Athleisure even permeated the beauty industry, with skincare products targeting pre- and post-workout needs. This trend’s staying power is undeniable, with the athleisure market projected to continue its significant growth.
2. The Royal Effect: Kate and Meghan’s Fashion Influence
The Duchess of Cambridge and the Duchess of Sussex emerged as modern-day fashion icons, reminiscent of Princess Diana. Their sartorial choices consistently sold out minutes after appearing online, demonstrating their immense influence on consumer behavior. Middleton favored classic British designers like Alexander McQueen and Emilia Wickstead, while Markle championed smaller, emerging brands and affordable options. Both Duchesses impacted bridal fashion with their iconic wedding gowns, sparking countless imitations.
3. The Birth of the Street Style Star: Influencers Take Center Stage
Street style photography gained unprecedented prominence, fueled by social media’s explosive growth. Bloggers and influencers like Leandra Medine, Chiara Ferragni, and Aimee Song rose to fame, showcasing their unique personal style. Their influence extended beyond fashion week’s front rows, reshaping brand marketing strategies and leading to lucrative ambassador roles.
4. Subcultures Go Mainstream: Normcore, Streetwear, and Gen Z
The 2010s saw the rise of anti-trends, with subcultures like normcore and streetwear entering the mainstream. Normcore embraced mundane, casual looks, drawing inspiration from figures like Jerry Seinfeld and Steve Jobs. Streetwear, with roots in surf and hip-hop culture, experienced a resurgence thanks to brands like Supreme and Off-White. Gen Z’s internet culture, fueled by TikTok and VSCO, spawned trends like E-Girls and VSCO Girls, further diversifying the fashion landscape.
5. Inclusivity and Diversity: A Shift in Fashion’s Focus
The 2010s marked a significant push for inclusivity and diversity in fashion. Designers like Chromat and Christian Siriano championed body positivity and diverse representation on the runway. Ashley Graham’s Sports Illustrated cover, Halima Aden’s hijab-wearing presence, and Rihanna’s Savage x Fenty show were milestones in this movement, reflecting a broader societal shift towards inclusivity.
6. Logomania: A Return to Brand Recognition
The latter half of the decade witnessed a resurgence of logomania, with brands prominently displaying their logos. Vetements, Balenciaga, and Gucci embraced this trend, capitalizing on nostalgia and brand recognition. This trend extended beyond luxury brands, filtering down to more accessible price points.
7. Amped-Up Runways: Extravagant Productions and Memorable Moments
Runway shows transformed into elaborate spectacles, with designers pushing creative boundaries. Fendi’s Trevi Fountain show and Chanel’s rocket launch were prime examples. Virgil Abloh’s debut at Louis Vuitton, marked by an emotional embrace with Kanye West, was a defining moment of the decade, symbolizing a new era in luxury fashion.
The 2010s were a decade of significant change and evolution in fashion, leaving a lasting impact on the industry and setting the stage for the trends to come. From the comfort of athleisure to the powerful statements of inclusivity, this era redefined what it means to be fashionable.
