A 2010s Revival
If you, like many others, never thought you would see the day 2010s fashion comes back into style – think again. Outlets such as Vogue, Glamour, and InStyle all report the impending (or already established) resurgence of 2010s fashion trends. Of course, it’s only natural – now that the early 2000s seem to have run their course in modern fashion trends, it makes sense that the progression of the trend cycle would lead us to the (oftentimes dreaded and protested) fashions of the early 2010s.
Trend movements (and TikTok) seem to agree: recently, ‘Indie Sleaze,’ a name given to the messy, sparkly, hipster style that was popular in the early 2010s, has become a newfound obsession for fashion-lovers on the internet. The current aesthetic calls black to the messy glamor, free-spirit, and edge of Recession-era fashion - characterized by ripped & frayed clothing, a party-girl vibe, and an overall messy and care-free appearance, including smudged eye makeup and tousled hair.
With the release of Saltburn, along with the resurgence of 2010s indie music and Tumblr aesthetics, this style was quick to gain traction. It references the sleazy indie hipster culture of the late 2000s and early 2010s, playing off of cultural phenomena of the decade such as Skins and Tumblr, as well as cultural icons such as Kate Moss and Mary Kate and Ashley.
However, Indie Sleaze is not the only 2010s aesthetic/sub-culture having its moment: boho chic style, originating primarily in the 1960s but known in more recent history as a hallmark style of the 2010s, has been steadily rising in popularity in the past few years. Playing off the same themes of free-spiritedness and effortlessness as indie sleaze, the bohemian style (and the general messy-ness of fashion during the early 2010s) has appealed to the individualist, wild, and eccentric spirits itching to get out after years of minimalist and “clean girl” aesthetics at the forefront of fashion and culture. Flowy dresses and skirts, fringe, and suede are key elements of today’s rendition of 2010s boho chic, as well as the recurring theme of an effortlessly curated messy look.
Certain brands and labels, like Free People and Isabel Marant, have been executing this style for ages – but are able to especially shine as this particular aesthetic gains traction.
Even aside from specific named aesthetics or styles of the 2010s (indie sleaze, boho chic, or 2010s model off duty, twee, etc.), individual elements of current fashion seem to be generally trending in the direction of the later aughts. Long, statement necklaces are replacing the dainty gold jewelry that found its footing in the early 2020s. Riding boots (a classic staple, but an emblem of the 2010s nonetheless) have grown in popularity in recent years. Even the seemingly innocent trend of ballet flats, which established itself in early 2023, calls back to the distinct styles of the early 2010s.
High fashion labels have also begun reintroducing 2010s trends to the runway – Spring 2024 saw the return of the controversial peplum silhouette, with designers like Alexander McQueen, Cecilie Bahnsen, and Jason Wu embracing the trend. Even back in 2021, Givenchy was referencing the peplum silhouettes of the 2010s in their collection while Jefferey Campbell brought back the iconic gladiator sandals.
As high fashion has espoused this revival, influential figures have been quick to follow suit. The 2024 Golden Globes saw a number of 2010s inspired looks – including the aforementioned peplum silhouette, along with equally controversial high-low cut.
Photography by Lily Daniel