Fall Trends: Both Familiar and Forward-Thinking

Shorts season is coming to a close, taking with it flowing floral dresses, mini sunglasses, and one-shoulder tops, all of which were in high demand this summer. The onset of autumn and the return to school is bittersweet, but both guarantee a fresh surge of statements that will soon become staples of 2018 fall fashion.

A major shift in the way we regard fashion has been remarked in that the world of couture has become less restrictive, as well as more open to the public eye. Any current commentary on the fashion industry is bound to bring up today’s political climate, as we are seeing an increasing necessity to speak out against injustice—and fashion cannot go excluded. It seems perfectly natural that this year’s social boldness is reflected in clothing, and the standout shapes, shades, patterns of fall 2018 are doing just that.

Nostalgia for past decades isn’t entirely new; in the past year or so, the “I was born in the wrong generation” mentality has made itself known via mom jeans, slip dresses, and layers of denim, to name a few notable trends. This fall, however, a staple of the ’80s and ’90s has made an unexpected comeback: the blazer, with shoulder pads included. Over the course of this year, big-name brands such as Marc Jacobs, Gucci, and Alexander Wang have heavily featured this 30-year-old fashion touchstone, which has also been seen sported by Rihanna, Chloe Sevigny, and other street-style icons. Zara, H&M, and other widespread brands have also been encouraging the blazer’s revival, manufacturing the jacket in ways that are both understated and extravagant. The power suit is currently in its prime, but this boxy silhouette is being reinvented in countless ways, including being layered over skinny jeans, matched with miniskirts, and even constructed in denim.

Aside from blazers, the expression “go big or go home” has been a common theme on this year’s runways, which have paved the way for other ’80s comebacks such as sequins, metallic dresses, and neon stockings. Some have theorized that this season’s flashy garments are tied to a message of female empowerment. The large and highly structured shapes, bright colors, and bold prints are rumored to have an underlying message that tells modern women not to shy away from the spotlight or hesitate to take up space. After all, the ’80s were dubbed the “Me Generation” due to a collective shift in thought among young adults, who began to distance themselves from traditional expectations.

The ’80s isn’t the only decade in the middle of a renaissance. September has also ushered in the return of ’90s “Clueless”-era plaid, the bold yellow print made iconic by the 1995 film. Centered around popular high school student Cher Horowitz, the movie has long had cult classic reputation, particularly among teenagers of all generations. It’s true that plaid has had a presence in recent years, particularly in the ever-popular flannel shirt, but 2018 designers have brought the pattern back to its former glory with an array of items from fanny packs to pantsuits.

Keeping with the eccentricity of this fall’s trends, animal print has become an emblem of recent runway shows. Prints such as leopard, zebra, and snakeskin are a common theme as of late, and are frequently seen combined with blazers, short dresses, and other items that are big this season. The print has also appeared in sequined form, proving that designers are not shying away from risk-taking statements.

While showing up to school in some of the outfits that name brand designers have popularized seems like a risky move, 2018 Fashion Week favorites have been made accessible to students, appearing in Forever 21, American Eagle, and other well-known chains. Thrift stores are also affordable favorites, and their extensive selections of vintage finds are becoming increasingly popular among today’s high schoolers. The recent rise of “thrift store culture” has shed light on such outlets, which are especially commonplace in New York City. Many high school students share an affinity for chains such as Buffalo Exchange, L Train Vintage, and Beacon’s Closet, all of which have their fair share of retro fashion. There are very few teenagers with the funds to wear looks seen at Fashion Week; even stores like Brandy Melville and Urban Outfitters have displayed out-of-budget prices. This is where thrift stores come into play. Their relievingly low prices and constant supply of vintage clothes are largely responsible for the return of many of this fall’s trends—both in the high fashion and everyday worlds.

The current headlines of Teen Vogue, which has always been in tune and authentic when it comes to adolescent fashion, are also broadcasting similar themes of empowerment. With articles covering topics such as using the fashion world as a social platform and the lack of inclusivity when casting models, it’s become clear that the seemingly shrouded world of high fashion has not only been made accessible to the mainstream, but also become a platform for debate. Recent years have shown less hesitation to question controversies from both observers and members of the fashion industry. Many have taken to Twitter to call out cultural appropriation on runways and in print, demand a broader range of bodies, and advocate for the introduction of models with disabilities.

The “Me Generation” mindset is similar to Gen Z ideals of nonconformity and independent thinking. Growing political tension has instilled in modern teens a confidence to question authority and firmly speak out against injustice. The post-Millennial age group has even been named one of the most globally connected generations. With high expectations and an entrepreneurial spirit, many of today’s middle and high school students have made bold strides in an effort to be seen as individuals. It only seems appropriate for this attitude to be reflected in current fashion, and it has been, unapologetically.