Fashion holds significant cultural influence. Throughout 2023, various fashion trends, from balletcore to Sofia Richie’s old-money aesthetic, captivated enthusiasts. While some trends like quiet luxury and Barbiecore proved enduring, others, like Balenciaga’s towel skirt, fell short. As we welcome the ‘New Year, New You’ mantra post-year-end celebrations, we examine both old and new trends poised to dominate in 2024.
Modernized Indian Silhouettes
In 2023, the sari regained global prominence, with celebrities like Zendaya and Priyanka Chopra showcasing contemporary interpretations. According to designer Amit Aggarwal, the trend of reimagining Indian silhouettes is set to continue. Nikhil Mehra from Maison Shantnu & Nikhil anticipates that innovative designs will enhance the international appeal of Indian fashion, preserving tradition while catering to modern sensibilities.
Return to Logomania
After a period of understated luxury, logomania is making a comeback, albeit in a subtler form. Designers are incorporating logos more discreetly, such as Prada’s tiny triangle plaques or Valentino’s V monogram on sheer tights. Indian designers are following suit, preferring minimal logo usage and focusing on culturally significant symbols and script.
Indie Sleaze
Inspired by the messy handbag trend seen on Parisian runways, Indie sleaze embraces chaotic fashion choices like layered garments and grunge influences. Oversized shirts, ripped tights, and studded belts, paired with smudged mascara and messy hair, define this aesthetic. Indian fashion can incorporate elements of Indie sleaze by layering distressed denim jackets over traditional kurtas or blending sheer fabrics with grunge-inspired accessories.
Continued Y2K Nostalgia
Nostalgia for the early 2000s remains strong, with designers and fashionistas embracing past aesthetics with a contemporary twist. Classic pieces like crop tops and low-waist pants will persist, while preppy athletic styling experiences a resurgence.
Vintage Trimmings
Accessories are leaning towards vintage-inspired designs, incorporating elements from past eras such as lace, pearls, tassels, and fringes. Designer Payal Singhal predicts a revival of old-world charm in both accessories and clothing, with vintage-inspired embellishments like gota and zardozi embroideries.
Muted Colors
Rich, muted shades are overtaking saccharine pinks as the focus of fashion palettes. Pantone’s Color of the Year, Peach Fuzz, may not suit Indian skin tones, leading to a preference for deeper hues like charcoal grey, royal blue, and dark cherry red.
Death of Microtrends
2024 heralds the decline of microtrends, with a return to timeless fashion and personal style. While niche trends may thrive online, discerning style choices will prevail, emphasizing individual taste and classic elegance.
