Latest news with #fashiontrends
Vogue
11 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Vogue
Paging '90s Kids! Platform Flip-Flops Are Stomping Their Way Back in Style
Clunk, clunk, clunk. Do you hear that? That's the sound of an iconic '90s shoe stomping its way back into the fashion fray. Yes, I am talking about platform flip-flop. Is there a shoe more indicative of both '90s minimalism and Y2K excess? The sky-high sandal style trended throughout much of both decades, and while it was beachy and cute, it more ofter than not also caused you to roll your ankle. Its clunky nature and hefty weight, popularized by OG brands like Rocket Dog, was certainly not for everyone. But come summer 2025, it appears the polarizing sandal is being embraced once again—at least, that's what celebrities, runways, and street style stars are making the case for. Photo: Backgrid Sure, this season, you have likely already noticed that the humble flip-flop is having a moment—but the platform flip-flop is taking the movement to the next level (and quite literally—you have to learn to balance yourself on some of these new stacked platforms). Coach is selling an almost 4-inch high platform thong sandal; ERL just today unveiled a staggering 8-inch version that retails for $1,250. Meanwhile, Rocket Dog continues to sell its fun rainbow-hued version, and they are perfectly reminiscent of the kind of sandal you would see Hilary Duff rock in the year 2001. And yet: the platform also feels, somehow, relevant today. We have seen it on the recent spring 2025 catwalks at Sportmax, Alaïa, and Miu Miu. It feels modern not necessarily because of the shoe itself, and more because of the ways it is being styled. Take how this summer's crop of street style stars have dressed up the shoe at the recent shows. It feels surprisingly minimal when paired with a long, sophisticated coat, and dressy when juxtaposed against a structured blazer and below-the-knee dress. On vacation, Nicola Peltz styled hers in a breezy, nonchalant way, with a black tank and yellow paisley-print skirt. When you think of a platform flip-flop, you may expect it to be worn with a 2000s capri pant and bedazzled Ed Hardy tee. But the 2025 approach is clearly all about subduing it, and making it feel more refined and discrete. Consider it a summer fashion challenge: If everyone can elevate those $750 The Row flip-flops (Jennifer Lawrence and Zoë Kravitz are fans), surely you can make the platform flip-flop chic, too. Just start training those ankles—and don't trip!
Vogue
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Vogue
It's the Summer of Subverted Polka Dots
Every summer, certain breakout fashion trends emerge—as though we all collectively got the same memo that a certain print or shoe is in. These past few weeks, the streets have been taken over by polka dots: they're everywhere! Celebrities such as Hailey Bieber, Olivia Rodrigo, and Rihanna have all been embracing the retro pattern in fresh, new ways. (They were also a huge trend of the resort 2026 season.) But while dotted designs can lean 1920s, the era they became popularized, the new styling approach is all about subverting that sweetness—by plastering dots on unexpected pieces like ties, shorts, and even capri leggings. Call it a cooler, grungier take on polka dot dressing; the 2025 way of wearing the pattern is all about offsetting it with more downtown-worthy pieces. Earlier this week, Rihanna offered a masterclass in the trend: The star dined at Giorgio Baldi in an oversized ERL suit and sheer Fenty bra, punctuating the look with a big polka-dotted tie, left undone around her neck. It struck the right balance of classic and contemporary. Ditto for Olivia Rodrigo, who stepped out in New York this summer wearing a pair of micro polka-dotted shorts. Styled with a blank tank and leather biker boots? She made polka dots worthy of a pop-punk star.
Fast Company
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Fast Company
The Y2K fashion revival tells a story that brands need to hear
It's no secret that we see fashion trends come full circle. But sometimes a trend resurfaces not because of how it makes people look, but because of how it makes them feel. The revival of Y2K fashion, which had redefined what clothing was meant to be seen versus hidden, is one case where the message is driving the trend. THE RETURN TO UNAPOLOGETIC SELF-EXPRESSION In the Y2K era—the late '90s and early 2000s—people dressed in ways that highlighted their individuality, and what we now call 'innerwear' was often what anchored their looks. Items like tank tops and bralettes became the foundation of an outfit, and boxer waistbands were confidently displayed. The style's characteristic innovation is what gives it intergenerational appeal and staying power. Today, consumers are revamping this aesthetic by styling those familiar pieces in ways that speak to a modern-day lifestyle. A Y2K-inspired work outfit could be a ribbed tank paired with tailored pants, while an event look might combine a bralette and an open blazer. This fashion moment isn't just about replicating a cultural phenomenon. It demonstrates a craving for self-expression that's original, bold and genuinely effortless. With classic pieces of innerwear as their foundation, people are discovering their unique style, whether that means embracing the past, staying grounded in the present, or experimenting with what is still to come. And that's a lesson clothing brands should take to heart. As a designer, it's essential to identify emerging trends that align with the cultural values and identity of the brand you are designing for. Strategizing based on consumer insights and data helps you determine the right timing for introducing new items or collections that harmonize with your existing offerings. You can also refresh your core offerings with updated fabrics, colors, patterns, or silhouettes. By understanding the context behind a trend, you can forge authentic connections through thoughtful styling and targeted marketing. Whether you're trying to attract new consumers or re-engage with existing ones, the key will be establishing a reputation as the go-to source for in-demand products. HOW HANES HAS EMBRACED THE Y2K REVIVAL At Hanes, our design philosophy has always been about the connection between everyday essentials and personal expression. Our pieces were never meant to be purely functional. They're crafted with personality, comfort, quality, and fit in mind—things that never go out of style. So the reemergence of Y2K fashion gave us an opportunity to think about our basics in a new way. How can a simple cotton tee make a statement? How can a boxer brief send a message? We weren't looking to take a trip down memory lane for nostalgia's sake. We wanted to lean into this cultural moment and tap into a style mindset that still connects with today's consumer. That's how we came up with our recent Urban Outfitters collaboration. The capsule collection features new takes on early 2000s staples like ribbed tanks, cropped crews, haltertops, bodysuits, and boxer briefs. But we also stayed true to our core value of creating trustworthy clothing that's uncomplicated, expressive, and, most importantly, comfortable for every body. Fashion constantly evolves, yet it's often the simplest pieces that leave the deepest, most lasting mark. Y2K fashion's revival is more than a nod to the past. It's a cultural shift toward embracing style as a way of expressing confidence, individuality, and comfort. The reemergence highlights how foundational fashion pieces have lasting power as tools for personal storytelling. For designers and brands, success lies beyond identifying what's trending. It requires knowing why it matters, when to act, and how to deliver with authenticity and brand positioning. By staying agile, listening to consumers, and taking calculated, creative risks, brands can stay relevant and inspire genuine connection.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Lululemon is selling a 'stylish and functional little bag' that's perfect for summer — it's under $100
While the viral Lululemon belt bag has certainly had its moment, there are lots of other great bags to explore, too. The Crossbody Camera Bag 2L is super functional and trendy, and comes in fun summer colours. It features two separate main compartments, so it's also great for staying organized. Quick shop: Crossbody Camera Bag 2L Don't believe me? More than 1,500 Lululemon shoppers have reviewed this bag, calling it "perfect for daily use." If you're curious to see what else shoppers are saying, along with further details on this small-but-mighty Lululemon bag, keep scrolling below. Crossbody Camera Bag 2L Shop this crossbody bag in three colours. The details Lululemon's signature belt bag has been all the rage for quite some time now. However, the brand's two-litre crossbody is set to surpass it as one of the best casual carry-alls this summer. The bag measures 8.1" x 2.6" x 4.9" and is crafted with 54 per cent cotton and 46 per cent recycled polyester. Its versatile adjustable strap, which measures 59.1" when fully extended, adds a slightly more formal touch with its metal rings. The two zippered compartments will ensure your essentials are well organized, and the practical back drop-in pocket is ideal for quick access to items like your phone or parking pass. More like this: I'm obsessed with Lululemon bags. 12 of the very best crossbody bags, totes and more for summer 2025 These bestselling Lululemon bags are on sale right now — here's my review as someone who owns them both Coach Outlet shoppers say this is the 'perfect everyday bag' — and it's $271 off right now What shoppers are saying This bag has an overall 4.4-star rating from more than 1,500 reviews, and shoppers seem to be loving it. One customer claims the crossbody to be "perfect for daily use," and another added that it's the "perfect size!" Another reviewer called it a "stylish and functional little bag," while someone else attested to it being "compact and lightweight." Crossbody Camera Bag 2L One person said the bag is "proportioned with perfection," stating it's "not too big and not too small." They said it "goes with everything." "Great little crossbody," shared another. They said it "holds the essentials" and love the bag's "hands-free convenience." While most reviews are positive, one person said they wish it had more of a "wipeable fabric" because they want to be able to keep this "beautiful" bag clean. Some people also dislike the strap, calling it "thin" or "too casual." What's the verdict? With shoppers praising the bag as "stylish and functional," there's no doubt that this crossbody is a hit. The two zippered compartments make it easier to find all your essentials, and the back drop-in pocket is key when looking for a quick way to store your phone. However, keep in mind the strap is on the thinner side and gives off a more casual look.
Irish Times
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Times
Are leggings over? Fitness fashion loosens up for summer
If the thought of wearing compressed fitness gear during the summer heat makes you break into a sweat before the workout has started, you're in luck, as fitness fashion has gone loose and breezy. For years, second-skin silhouettes – such as compression tops, leggings, and co-ordinating sets from brands like Gymshark and Adanola – have dominated the fitness fashion landscape. Now, there's a move towards roomier, baggy styles with the same performance credentials. A thought process was touted that looser workout gear equalled a lack of motivation, or that tighter gear kept you accountable. But now there's a mindset shift, coupled with advances in technical fabrics, and an increase in more laid-back pieces being crafted by big brands like Nike , Adidas and Lululemon . Whether influenced by the pandemic, a craving for comfort in all aspects of clothing, or a cynical refresh in fashion, clothing has loosened up on all fronts. READ MORE 'The movement towards more oversized workout gear stems from a shift in overall fashion trends,' says stylist and personal shopper Lorna Weightman. 'Skinny jeans are on hiatus, for example, and there has been a greater focus on a looser silhouette across fashion in general.' Oversized tailoring, drawstring trousers and roomy denim are at the forefront of fashion, so it was only a matter of time before our athleisure wardrobe got a breezy transformation. Not only that, but investing in clothing that can be worn in multiple ways and settings, from the gym to working from home or a coffee run, must influence the uptake of roomier styles. If TikTok is to be believed, the influx of looser-fitting workout gear is being heralded by Gen Z . A recent article in The New York Times highlights the generational divide in gym style, revealing a playful debate on social media between millennials, who are supposedly more inclined towards tight-fitting clothing, and Gen Z, who prefer baggier fits. But whatever style or generational camp you align with, it doesn't mean structure is obsolete. Goodmove modal rich ribbed relaxed jumpsuit €57, M&S Loose fit T-shirt, €45, Adidas Gravitate vest, €30, Dare2b Flared leggings, €120, Alo Yoga Stormwear iridescent running shorts, €32, Goodmove, M&S Split-back training T-shirt, €68, Lululemon With looser-fit workout clothing, it's not about rejecting structure but reworking it, and rethinking how to maximise comfort. It's more about placing support where you need it or where it matters. 'I can see it in my gym,' says Weightman. 'Baggy workout pants seem more favourable, especially regarding strength and conditioning. I see women in jersey-style pants and tank tops, which creates a nice, balanced look that's comfortable to train in.' Inspired by everyday fashion, fitness gear styling combines and contrasts silhouettes to incorporate both aesthetic and functional elements. Think an oversized sweat-wicking T-shirt with cycling shorts, or a compression top with yoga-style trousers for a breathable outfit with a structured element. It's a styling trick borrowed from fashion's obsession with boxy oversized silhouettes, which are often paired with sleek separates – the same can be applied to fitness wear. Layering and mixing silhouettes offers breathability, flexibility, and versatility as you transition from the gym to the outside world. While baggy clothing is yet to be adopted fully in the gym classes of Orla Hopkins, fitness coach and co-founder of New Dimensions Active, people do want relaxed, casual athleisure that fits into their post-workout lifestyle. 'I love how working out has become such a community vibe and social activity, with post-class meet-ups,' says Hopkins. 'Many people blend their looks more with their outerwear, styling their workout gear with cool baseball caps, trainers, jackets, hoodies and sweatshirts.' Different exercises will generally require different clothing choices. 'Consider the style of training. For yoga or Pilates, you may benefit from looser clothing, while running, spinning and lifting classes may require more fitted clothing,' says Hopkins. There is space and a need for cinched styles in fitness gear. Trek jacket, €180, PE Nation Shell shorts, €54, Sweaty Betty Full zip hoodie, €150, Adidas Stella McCartney Shorts, €80, The North Face, Very Adidas ultraboost 5, €200, Very Form-fitting clothing is a good choice for equipment-heavy workouts to avoid risks, says James Murphy from boutique gym Beatbox Dublin. 'Tighter-fit gear does allow for greater flexibility and movement,' he explains. 'Baggy clothes may hinder movement and may also snag on machines.' However, as important as it is to consider fit, it's equally essential to have the right materials, as Hopkins explains, 'Regardless of fit, choose clothing made from moisture-wicking fabrics that help regulate your body temperature and that you feel confident and comfortable wearing.'
