It’s 2020, and even amidst tough times, fashionistas have found creative ways to remain stylish and express themselves through bold fashion statements. From unexpected colors to the return of classic streetwear, this year has had no shortage of fun trends we can all appreciate and learn from. Let’s explore some of the most stylish trends of the year — find out what made it to the top of our look book and why.
1. Embrace Freedom With This Year’s Street Style Trends
2020 has been anything but traditional, so it’s no surprise that street style trends have embraced the spirit of freedom to reflect the way of life. Take a walk outdoors and you’ll see that fashion lovers have taken the opportunity to express themselves more freely than ever before. Here’s how:
- Comfort Is Key: Comfort over style has been firmly cemented this year, with practical fashion choices taking out the street style spotlight. Comfy joggers, high waisted sweatpants, jumpsuits and bike shorts in lightweight fabrics look effortlessly cool and provide major street trend points.
- Bold Colors: Bright colors and high-contrast neons have been all the rage. People are expressing themselves with bold hues to make an impression on the streets. Color-blocking is the way to go, with contrasting shades an easy way to add a bit of flair.
- Futuristic Details: It’s all about the details. Instead of going for traditional silhouettes, street trends are embracing augmented realities and bold futuristic accents, like oversized hoods and reflective details.
- Vintage Revival: Simplicity is the order of the day. Oversized pieces and slouchy silhouettes that have their roots in the ‘90s have made a comeback and are being worn with renewed appreciation. Those who prefer classic looks can try vintage denim, cropped jackets, and retro tees.
This year’s street style has nothing to do with trying to dress according to the latest social expectations or following the trends of the past. Instead, it’s more about expressing oneself, letting go and finding freedom in unorthodox fashion choices.
From wear-it-everywhere sweatsuits, to sustainable fashion, the only rule to abide by is to keep it real. As fashion evolves alongside the changing world, free-spirited looks are making a statement. So go ahead; experiment, express yourself, and take a fashion risk to embrace freedom with this year’s street style trends.
2. Fusing Old and New: Street Style Through the Decades
Street style has been constantly evolving over the years, adapting to changes in fashion, technology, and culture. What began in the 1940s as a subculture of working-class youth expressing themselves through their clothing has now become a global phenomenon. From dressy casual to classic streetwear, there are endless possibilities when it comes to blending the past and present to create unique looks.
- The 1940s: During this decade, street fashion was heavily influenced by the music of the time. Swing and jazz music popularized flashy styles featuring bold colours, unique prints, and playful accessories, such as fedoras and exotic scarves.
- The 1950s: Street style in the 1950s was all about rebellion and pushing the boundaries of what was socially acceptable. Leather jackets, jeans, T-shirts, and Converse Chuck Taylors were all symbols of rebellious youth culture.
- The 1960s: This was the era of hippy fashion and bright floral prints. The free-spirited style featured flowing maxi dresses, earrings, and large sunglasses.
- The 1970s:The 70s saw the emergence of punk fashion, with its deliberate mixing of clashing patterns and bold colours. The unisex style often featured trousers with rolled-up cuffs and T-shirts with iron-on patches.
- The 1980s: This was the decade of flashy neon colours and oversized silhouettes. Acid wash jeans, crop tops, and mini skirts were all popular, as was spandex and leg warmers.
Today, street style is all about blending the old and new. Retro-inspired looks are popular, as are vintage pieces paired with modern items. Dressing up and down freely, unisex clothing, and blending different colours, patterns, and textures are all ways to keep your style fresh and up to date.
Regardless of your personal style, street fashion is an ever-evolving art form that brings together elements of the past and present. Whether you prefer classic streetwear or edgy punk vibes, the key is to create your own unique look that expresses your individuality.
3. Cultural Influences on Street Style Trends
Street style trends are always defined by cultural influences. The way people dress on the streets often makes a statement on visual identity, belonging and social interactions.
Globalization
Globalization is one of the primary factors that has shaped street style trends over the years. It has made it possible for designers and fashion marketers to send their designs and ideas to new markets, resulting in an exchange of different cultures and their fashionable styles. Streetstyle fashion has also been influenced by the influx of cultural influences from popular films, television shows, celebrities, and other such entertainment sources.
Urbanization
Urbanization has also had a major influence on street style trends. In urban areas, people tend to wear clothes that fit in with the sophisticated, modern lifestyle of the city. This includes fitted pieces, unusual prints, juxtapositions of fabrics and a heavy emphasis on detail. As cities continue to find more innovative ways of expressing their urban sensibilities, the street style trends evolve to keep up.
Geographical Locations
The geographical locations where people dress also play an important role in determining what kinds of streetstyle trends become popular. For example, in a colder northern climate, people tend to opt for warm fabrics such as fur, wool, and cashmere to protect themselves from the weather. In a warmer climate, people are likely to choose lightweight and breathable materials such as cotton and rayon.
Social Media
Finally, the rapid rise of social media and the popularity of photos posted on sites such as Instagram have had a massive influence on street style trends. The widespread use of apps and platforms has allowed anyone to be their own fashion influencer. This means that street style trends can be spread quickly, making it even easier for fashion-conscious individuals to find and follow the latest looks.
4. Setting Your Own Rules: Taking Street Style in an Unexpected Direction
When it comes to street style, why not become your own trendsetter? Even if certain fashion trends are trending on Instagram, it’s easy to make them your own. And nothing gives you that unique edge like setting your own rules.
For starters, try uniting different trends or individual pieces in unexpected ways. This means matching your mustard-hued corduroy pants with a tweed blazer or pairing your mom jeans with a textured top. You can also play with colors; mix and match bold colors for a playful and daring look.
Accessories are a great way to add personality to your street style. Be sure to check out the store for some cool statement pieces. Try for a necklace with angular shapes, a vibrant beret, or a pair of statement earrings, for example. And don’t forget to use your imagination!
Mixing unexpected fabrics is another great way to take street style in an unexpected direction. Rock those metallic shorts with an oversized denim shirt, or go for a mesh skirt and pair it with an elegant blazer. Remember to experiment and bring different worlds together to develop your own unique style.
- Unite different trends in unexpected ways.
- Add personality with cool accessories.
- Mix unexpected fabrics for a unique look.
In the end, creating your own trends and breaking the rules is all part of the fun. Street style is the perfect way to show off your creativity, so don’t be afraid to take risks.
From runners and 90’s inspired mom jeans to statement caps and teddy coats, this year has been full of exciting trends! If you’re looking for ways to keep your wardrobe up-to-date and on-trend in the coming year, make sure to keep your eye on some of these street style elements. Let your creative expression take shape through how you choose to make these trends your own!