As we start to tuck away memories from the year, it’s important to reflect on the good and the bad times that were had throughout 2024.The same can certainly be said for fashion choices that came and went throughout the year. Whether basic or bold, the 2024 fashion year raised an intriguing question: Is individuality stronger or weaker than ever in the digital age?
Fashion isn’t just about clothing or accessories. By analyzing trends, we gain insight into the sociological shifts shaping the world around us. It might sound silly, but how we dress reflects how we see ourselves and where we want to fit in society.
Now more than ever, trends and fast fashion continue to dominate the runway, and it was painstakingly clear at the beginning of the year. Bows were everywhere–and continue to litter the halls. Bows became a marketable version of the “coquette” style that surged in popularity in early 2021. However, the style was diluted to center on bows and the color pink—an attempt at hyper-feminine fashion adjusted to fit society’s comfort zone.
The continuing rise of “clean girl” fashion–neutral colors such as beige and navy blue, plain pieces paired with a pair of light-wash jeans, and small gold jewelry–became the hallmark of everyone’s wardrobe by the spring.
As an attempt to contrast that, alternative fashion came back into the scene with certain influencers pushing the style. The joke is made when millionaire dollar content creators tried to push a style that is heavily influenced by punk political ideals.
This summer, streetwear looks took center stage with camo patterns, oversized jerseys, baggy long jorts, and, of course, the iconic Adidas Sambas or Campus sneakers. Chunky, bold, gold jewelry pushed back against the dainty styles from earlier in the year, with layered chokers, chains, and longer pieces making a statement.
This was only the surface of larger trends coming and going while smaller ones sneaked their way through which all have one thing in common. They’ve all grown through social media. Predictions for mainstream fashion are no longer made based on the runway, it’s based on what everyone else is wearing out in public.
It isn’t a secret that fashion creates a sense of community. But, these communities that are built become a problem when people no longer can make a choice and decision for themselves. Users online have come to ask their followers, “What are we wearing?”– a second hand embarrassing reminder of the mob-mentality that people have adopted.
Reflecting on the year and the many stylistic choices people have made, it’s clear to see that some have left a longer impression in people’s wardrobes more than others. One thing that we can hope for is that when the ball drops on new years, people start to take pride in their own individual style.
