Fashion: The 2010s Are Back in Fashion: Gen Z Revives "Going-Out" Glamour

Why the Topic is Trending: Fashion's Cyclical Nature and a Craving for Loud, Fun Styles

• Revival of Early 2010s Fashion: The article highlights the return of distinct fashion trends from the early 2010s, including bandage dresses, sky-high platforms, and micro-mini skirts.

• Gen Z's Embrace of Millennial Styles: Despite initially favoring minimalism, Gen Z is now looking to the bold and glamorous aesthetics of the 2010s.

• Post-Pandemic Shift Towards Fun and Unserious Fashion: After a period of practicality and quiet luxury, there's a growing desire for louder, more expressive styles.

• Influence of Celebrities and Social Media: Figures like Addison Rae are embracing the 2010s aesthetic, contributing to its revival, and platforms like Depop are seeing a surge in searches for related items.

• Nostalgia and a Desire to be "Hot": The article suggests that this revival is partly driven by a sense of nostalgia and a desire to embrace a more overtly glamorous image.

Overview: Gen Z Dusts Off the 2010s Style Playbook for a Dose of "Going-Out" Glamour This article explores the resurgence of early 2010s fashion trends, particularly among Gen Z, who are embracing the bold and glamorous "going-out" aesthetic characterized by bandage dresses, sky-high platforms, and micro-mini skirts. After a period dominated by minimalist styles and quiet luxury, there's a growing craving for fun, loud, and unserious fashion. Influenced by celebrities like Addison Rae, who has been seen sporting looks reminiscent of the era, and fueled by nostalgia for the perceived glamour of the 2010s, this revival is evident in the increase in searches for iconic pieces like Hervé Léger bandage dresses on resale platforms. While the 2010s aesthetic wasn't always considered tasteful, it was undeniably committed, and its return signals a desire for a more expressive and less inhibited approach to fashion, though it also raises concerns about the re-emergence of potentially harmful beauty standards.

Detailed Findings: Unpacking the 2010s Fashion Revival

• Return of the Bandage Dress: The Hervé Léger bandage dress is experiencing a significant resurgence, with Depop searches for the brand up by 3,502 per cent this month.

• Revival of Sky-High Heels: Searches for vertiginous heels have also soared by 127 per cent, complementing the form-fitting silhouettes of the era.

• Celebrity Endorsement: Addison Rae is noted for embracing 2010s style with looks featuring pastel tights, faux fur coats, and noughties pop diva elements.

• Tumblr Era Influence: The reappearance of items like an eggplant American Apparel hoodie signals a wider revival of the Tumblr era aesthetic.

• Pillaging the Archives: Celebrities like City Girl JT and Kendall Jenner are sporting vintage pieces from the early 2010s by designers like Fendi, Margiela, and Gucci.

• Craving for Fun and Loud Styles: The return to 2010s fashion is driven by a desire for fun, something loud, shiny, and unserious, contrasting with the recent dominance of minimal and practical wardrobes.

• Nostalgia for Paparazzi Glamour: The author and others who were younger during the 2010s absorbed the aesthetic through paparazzi photos, TV, and early Instagram posts, associating it with fun and glamour.

• Shift Away from Internet Microtrends: As internet microtrends become tiresome, there's a pull towards the straightforward glamour of the 2010s.

• Return of Ultra-Thin Ideal of Beauty: The article notes a concerning undercurrent to this revival, with the ultra-thin beauty standard of the 2010s quietly making a comeback, potentially undermining the progress of body positivity.

Key Success Factors of Product (Trend): Why the 2010s Glamour is Resonating with Gen Z

• Fashion's Cyclical Nature: Fashion trends inevitably come back into style after a period of time, and the early 2010s are now in that cycle.

• Reaction to Current Trends: The embrace of maximalist glamour can be seen as a reaction against the prolonged period of minimalism and quiet luxury.

• Nostalgia for a Perceived Carefree Era: For Gen Z, who experienced the 2010s through screens, it might represent a time of less digital overwhelm and more overt fun.

• Desire for Attention-Grabbing Styles: Loud and glamorous outfits are inherently attention-grabbing, which can be appealing for self-expression and making a statement.

• Celebrity Influence: The endorsement of 2010s styles by current celebrities helps to legitimize and popularize the trend among younger audiences.

Key Takeaway: Gen Z is Re-Embracing the Bold Glamour of the Early 2010s, Driven by Nostalgia and a Desire for Fun, but with a Hint of Irony The return of early 2010s "going-out" fashion, particularly among Gen Z, is fueled by a cyclical nature of trends, a reaction against minimalism, nostalgia for a perceived glamorous era, and a desire for expressive styles, though it also carries the potential resurgence of problematic beauty standards.

Main Trend: The Recurrence of Maximalist Fashion Eras Among Younger Generations The revival of 2010s "going-out" dressing exemplifies a broader trend where younger generations are revisiting and re-embracing maximalist fashion eras from the recent past, often injecting them with a contemporary twist.

Description of the Trend: From Y2K to 2010s: The Cyclical Embrace of Fashion Maximalism This trend describes how younger generations, having experienced minimalist fashion for a period, are now turning to the maximalist styles of the late 1990s and early 2000s (Y2K) and the early 2010s. These eras, characterized by bold colors, statement pieces, and often body-conscious silhouettes, offer a contrast to the understated styles that preceded them, reflecting fashion's cyclical nature and a desire for more expressive and attention-grabbing looks.

What is Consumer Motivation: Seeking Fun, Expressiveness, and a Break from Minimalism

• Desire for Fun and Playfulness in Fashion: After periods of more serious or practical dressing, there's often a desire to embrace fun and lighthearted styles.

• Opportunity for Bold Self-Expression: Maximalist trends allow for more creativity and individuality in outfit choices.

• Reaction Against Prevailing Aesthetics: Younger generations often push back against current trends by reviving styles from the recent past.

• Nostalgia for Familiar Aesthetics: For those who experienced these eras in their youth, the returning styles can evoke feelings of nostalgia.

What is Driving Trend: Fashion Cycles, Social Media, and Generational Identity

• Inherent Cyclical Nature of Fashion: Trends tend to reappear every 20-30 years as new generations discover and reinterpret them.

• Influence of Social Media and Archival Fashion: Platforms like Instagram and TikTok make it easy to rediscover and share past fashion trends, fueling their revival.

• Generational Identity and Differentiation: Younger generations often use fashion to define their identity and distinguish themselves from older generations' current styles.

What is Motivation Beyond the Trend: The Timeless Human Attraction to Adornment and Self-Presentation

• Fundamental Desire to Adorn Oneself: Humans have an inherent desire to express themselves through clothing and accessories.

• Seeking Confidence and Validation Through Appearance: Fashion choices can often be linked to seeking confidence and social acceptance.

Description of Consumers Article is Referring: Gen Z Individuals Exploring and Reinterpreting Early 2010s Fashion

Summary Snapshot: Key Characteristics of the Gen Z 2010s Revivalist

• Grew Up with 2010s Culture: Experienced the era through media and older siblings.

• Seeking Fun and Loud Styles: Drawn to the bold and glamorous aesthetics of the early 2010s.

• Engaging with Resale Platforms: Actively searching for vintage or second-hand pieces from the era.

• Potentially Ironical or Campy Approach: May be embracing the trends with a self-aware and slightly exaggerated perspective.

• Influenced by Celebrities and Online Archives: Taking cues from figures like Addison Rae and archival fashion accounts.

Concluding Thoughts on the Audience: Gen Z Finding New Expression in Millennial Glamour Gen Z's exploration of early 2010s fashion indicates a desire for more expressive and fun styles after a period of minimalism. They are engaging with these trends through a contemporary lens, potentially with a sense of irony or camp, and are finding inspiration in celebrities and online archives.

• Who are them: Gen Z individuals (born 1997-2012) who are interested in fashion and exploring trends from the early 2010s.

• What kind of products they like: Items characteristic of the early 2010s "going-out" aesthetic, such as bandage dresses, sky-high platform heels, micro-mini skirts, statement jewelry, and possibly vintage designer pieces from that era.

• What is their age?: Approximately 13 to 28 years old in 2025, with a focus on older teens and young adults who are active on social media and interested in fashion revivals.

• What is their gender?: Likely includes individuals across genders who are interested in exploring and expressing themselves through fashion.

• What is their income?: Could range from those with limited disposable income seeking affordable vintage or second-hand pieces to those with more financial freedom investing in higher-end revivals.

• What is their lifestyle: Likely digitally active, engaged in social media and fashion trends, and interested in expressing their individuality through their clothing choices, potentially with a playful or ironic approach to past aesthetics.

• What are their shopping preferences in the category article is referring to: Actively using resale platforms like Depop to find authentic pieces from the early 2010s. Also potentially shopping at fast-fashion retailers that are offering new items inspired by the era.

• Are they low, occasional or frequent category shoppers: Could vary depending on individual interest in fashion and trend adoption. Some may be frequent shoppers constantly updating their wardrobe, while others may be more occasional in their approach.

• What are their general shopping preferences-how they shop products, shopping motivations): Influenced by social media trends and celebrity styles. May prioritize affordability by shopping second-hand. Motivated by a desire to express themselves, have fun with fashion, and potentially evoke nostalgia.

Implications for Brands: Capitalizing on the 2010s Comeback

• Fast Fashion: Opportunity to create new pieces inspired by early 2010s trends at accessible price points.

• Vintage and Second-Hand Retailers: Could see increased demand for authentic pieces from that era.

• High Fashion Designers: May incorporate nods to the 2010s aesthetic in their new collections, perhaps with a modern update.

Implication for Society: The Cyclical Nature of Fashion and Beauty Standards

• Reminder of Past Trends: Highlights how fashion and beauty standards are constantly being revisited and reinterpreted.

• Potential for Re-emergence of Harmful Ideals: The article notes the concern that the return of 2010s fashion might also bring back the ultra-thin beauty ideal of that time.

Implications for Consumers: Opportunity for Fun and Expressive Styling, but Need for Awareness

• Chance to Experiment with Bold Looks: Gen Z can have fun exploring a different fashion era.

• Potential Pitfalls of Past Beauty Standards: Consumers should be aware of the potentially harmful beauty ideals that were prevalent in the 2010s and approach the revival with a critical perspective.

Implication for Future: Expect More Revivals from the Recent Past

• Continued Cyclical Nature of Trends: We will likely see more fashion trends from the late 2000s and early 2010s resurfacing in the coming years.

Consumer Trend: The Revival of "Y2K+" Fashion Eras Younger generations are increasingly looking to the fashion trends of the late 1990s, early 2000s (Y2K), and the early 2010s for style inspiration, reinterpreting them for a contemporary context.

Consumer Sub Trend: Nostalgia-Driven Fashion Consumption A significant driver of current fashion trends is nostalgia, with consumers drawn to styles and aesthetics from their childhood or adolescence.

Big Social Trend: The Power of the Fashion Cycle and Trend Reinterpretation Fashion trends are inherently cyclical, with past styles inevitably returning to popularity, often with a new generation's unique spin.

Worldwide Social Trend: The Global Reach of Fashion Nostalgia Through Social Media Social media platforms allow for the rapid dissemination and rediscovery of fashion trends from around the world and across different eras, fueling global revivals.

Social Drive: The Desire for Self-Expression, Fun, and Connection to Past Aesthetics Consumers are motivated by a desire to express their individuality, have fun with their clothing choices, and connect with styles that evoke a sense of nostalgia or represent a particular era.

Learnings for Brands to Use in 2025: Key Learnings for Brands from the 2010s Revival

• Recognize the Cyclical Nature of Fashion: Past trends will always return, so keep an eye on what's being rediscovered by younger generations.

• Nostalgia Can Be a Powerful Marketing Tool: Tap into the emotional connections consumers have with past eras through your product offerings and campaigns.

• Be Mindful of Potential Negative Aspects of Past Trends: If reviving a trend that had problematic elements, consider how to reinterpret it in a more inclusive and positive way.

Strategic Recommendations for Brands to Follow in 2025: Riding the Wave of Fashion Nostalgia

• Monitor Social Media for Emerging Trend Revivals: Pay attention to what younger generations are discussing and wearing online.

• Consider Incorporating Vintage-Inspired Pieces into Your Collections: Offer modern interpretations of popular styles from the recent past.

• Collaborate with Influencers Who Embody the Revival Aesthetic: Partner with content creators who are authentically engaging with these trends.

Final sentence (key concept) describing main trend from article (which is a summary of all trends specified), and what brands & companies should do in 2025 to benefit from trend and how to do it. Gen Z's embrace of early 2010s "going-out" dressing highlights the recurring trend of younger generations reviving maximalist fashion eras from the recent past, urging brands and companies in 2025 to recognize the cyclical nature of fashion and strategically incorporate nostalgic elements into their offerings to resonate with this influential demographic.

Final Note:

• Core Trend: Revival of "Y2K+" Fashion Eras: Younger generations are revisiting and reinterpreting maximalist styles from the late 90s, early 2000s, and early 2010s.

• Core Strategy: Tap into Nostalgia: Recognize the emotional connection consumers have with past aesthetics.

• Core Industry Trend: Fashion Cyclicality: Fashion trends inevitably return after a period of time.

• Core Consumer Motivation: Seeking Fun, Expressiveness, and Connection to Past Aesthetics.

Final Conclusion: The Return to Glamour: Gen Z Reimagines the 2010s Gen Z's rediscovery of early 2010s fashion showcases the ever-evolving and cyclical nature of style. While initially drawn to minimalism, this generation is now embracing the bold glamour of the recent past, suggesting a desire for more expressive and fun fashion choices. However, this revival also serves as a reminder of potentially problematic beauty standards, highlighting the importance of approaching nostalgia with a critical and contemporary perspective. Brands that can tap into this trend with a nuanced understanding of its appeal and potential pitfalls will be well-positioned to connect with Gen Z's evolving sense of style.

Core Trend Detailed: Deja Vu Dressing: The Resurgence of Past Fashion Eras The Core Trend of the Revival of "Y2K+" Fashion Eras describes the increasing tendency of younger generations to look to the fashion of the recent past, specifically the late 1990s, early 2000s (Y2K), and the early 2010s, for style inspiration. This trend is characterized by a re-embrace of aesthetics that were once contemporary and are now being rediscovered and reinterpreted by a new cohort of consumers. It signifies fashion's cyclical nature and a desire for self-expression through styles that offer a departure from current mainstream aesthetics, often imbued with a sense of nostalgia and a contemporary twist.

Key Characteristics of the Core Trend: Defining the Cycle of Fashion Comebacks

• Revisiting Recent Decades: Younger generations are specifically drawn to the fashion of the "Y2K" era and the early 2010s, periods within their living memory or just before their active participation in fashion.

• Nostalgia as a Driving Force: These revivals are often fueled by a sense of nostalgia for the styles that were popular during their childhood or adolescence.

• Reinterpretation and Modernization: The returning trends are not simply replicated but are often updated and styled in ways that feel relevant for the present day.

• Influence of Social Media and Archives: Platforms like TikTok and Instagram play a crucial role in showcasing and popularizing past fashion trends, while online archives provide access to original pieces.

• Reaction Against Current Aesthetics: The embrace of maximalist styles from these eras can be seen as a reaction against prolonged periods of minimalism or more subdued fashion trends.

Market and Cultural Signals Supporting the Trend: Signals of Fashion's Retro Remix

• Surge in Demand for Vintage and Second-Hand Items from the Targeted Eras: Resale platforms are reporting significant increases in searches and sales for clothing and accessories from the late 90s, early 2000s, and early 2010s.

• Inspiration from Celebrity and Influencer Styles: Celebrities and fashion influencers are increasingly seen sporting looks that draw heavily from these past eras, contributing to their revival.

• Runway Collections Referencing Past Decades: High-fashion designers are incorporating elements and silhouettes from the "Y2K+" period into their new collections, legitimizing the trend.

• Media Features and Editorials Highlighting the Return of These Styles: Fashion magazines and online publications are actively discussing and showcasing the resurgence of these trends.

• The Natural Progression of the Fashion Cycle: Historically, fashion trends tend to resurface approximately every 20-30 years, making the return of these recent eras a natural progression.

How the Trend Is Changing Consumer Behavior: The Impact of Retro Revivals on Wardrobe Choices

• Increased Shopping for Vintage and Second-Hand Clothing:** Consumers are actively seeking out authentic pieces from the targeted eras on resale platforms and in vintage stores.

• Adoption of Specific Style Elements from Past Decades:** Individuals are incorporating key items and silhouettes, such as low-rise jeans, crop tops, or bandage dresses, into their current wardrobes.

• Experimentation with Maximalist Aesthetics:** There's a move away from strict minimalism towards more expressive and adorned styles, reflecting the bolder looks of the revived eras.

• Greater Awareness of Fashion History and Cycles:** Younger consumers are becoming more knowledgeable about past fashion trends and how they relate to current styles.

• Blending of Retro and Contemporary Pieces:** Individuals are often mixing vintage or vintage-inspired items with modern clothing to create unique and personalized looks.

Implications Across the Ecosystem: The Retro Fashion Ecosystem

• For Brands and CPGs: Opportunity to rerelease updated versions of popular items from these eras or to create entirely new collections inspired by these aesthetics. Brands can also tap into nostalgia through marketing campaigns.

• For Retailers: Increased demand for vintage and second-hand retailers specializing in clothing from the late 90s to the early 2010s. Fast-fashion retailers can also capitalize by offering trend-driven pieces inspired by these revivals.

• For Consumers: Access to a wider variety of styles and the ability to express their individuality through fashion by drawing inspiration from multiple eras. It also provides a more affordable way to participate in trends through vintage and second-hand shopping.

Strategic Forecast: Looking Ahead: The Trajectory of Fashion Revivals

• Continued Exploration of the Recent Past for Trend Inspiration: Expect to see more revivals from the late 2000s and early 2010s in the coming years.

• Increased Blurring of Lines Between Decades in Fashion:** Rather than strict adherence to one era, we may see more mixing and matching of elements from different "Y2K+" decades.

• The Pace of Trend Cycles May Accelerate Further Due to Social Media: The rapid dissemination of trends online could lead to even quicker revivals and reinterpretations of past styles.

• Sustainability Concerns May Fuel the Popularity of Second-Hand Retro Fashion: As environmental awareness grows, shopping vintage and second-hand for retro styles may become an even more appealing and ethical choice.

Areas of innovation (implied by article):

• Curated Vintage and Second-Hand Online Marketplaces: Platforms that specialize in authenticated and high-quality vintage pieces from the "Y2K+" eras, making it easier for consumers to find specific items.

• Modern Interpretations of Iconic Pieces: Designers creating new garments and accessories that subtly nod to the aesthetics of these decades while incorporating contemporary fabrics and silhouettes.

• Virtual Styling Tools Focused on Retro Trends: Apps or online services that allow users to experiment with styling "Y2K+" inspired looks using virtual wardrobes and AI-powered recommendations.

• Collaborations Between Brands and Vintage Collectors: Fashion brands partnering with renowned vintage curators or shops to create limited-edition collections of reissued or upcycled pieces.

• Interactive Social Media Campaigns Showcasing the Evolution of Trends: Brands or influencers creating engaging content that highlights the original "Y2K+" trends alongside their modern reinterpretations.

Final Thought (summary): A Timeless Loop: The Enduring Allure of Fashion's Past The ongoing revival of "Y2K+" fashion eras underscores the cyclical nature of style and the enduring human fascination with the aesthetics of the recent past. Younger generations, through a lens of nostalgia and a desire for self-expression, are breathing new life into the bold and often maximalist trends of these periods. This re-embrace highlights fashion's remarkable ability to reinvent itself, offering a continuous loop of rediscovery and reinterpretation that speaks to both our collective memory and our individual desire for stylistic innovation.

Source: https://theface.com/style/bandage-dress-return-2010-fashion-addison-rae-kim-kardashian