From Barbenheimer to how often do you think about the Roman Empire, 2023 has been one for the books; as we approach the end of the year, I can’t help but wonder about what trends we’ll either do away with when the ball drops, take with us, recycle or invent out of thin air. What fashion has shown us this century is that it is largely cyclical. Fashion continually revives trends from the past, blending nostalgia with modern twists. It’s a testament to the timeless appeal of certain styles and the industry’s ability to reinvent and reinterpret them for each generation. Beyond cyclical trends, it also reflects societal shifts and values, creating a dynamic dialogue between history, innovation, and cultural evolution. So what will 2024 have in store for us?
1. Denim galore!
Unless it is skinny jeans, I am so here for the experimentation with denim. Every decade puts its own little spin on what to do with denim, such as bellbottoms in the 1980s, mom jeans or the iconic y2k low rise. This versatile fabric is a timeless mainstay. What the 2020s has shown us is a hybrid of all that has come before us. In so doing, it genuinely mirrors the 90s obsession with denim everything. 2023 specifically has seen a craze with denim maxi skirts, though the beauty of the time we’re living in is that we have all that has come before us to inspire how we wear denim and of course whatever strikes our individual fancy. This particular ensemble donned by Tate McRae on The Jimmy Kimmel Show truly showcases this decade-specific creativity.
2. Western Wear
Say howdy to cowgirl boots if you haven’t already, as they have become the IT shoe. Western fashion as a whole prides itself upon practicality because you could wear the same shoe to the rodeo by day and a Taylor Swift concert by night. Online boutiques like sheisgracielou boast this homage to western fashion, as does the abundance of cowboy boot stores in Nashville, TN. Besides wearing the iconic shoe, there is also charms, pendants, and accompanying aesthetic trends that go off of it like the ‘Coastal Cowgirl’ which combines westernwear with more beachy vibes. Or ‘Cowgirl Copper’ hair if you’re feeling epic.
3. Turtlenecks
Winter is coming New Orleans, and while there is no snow, it’s a little chillier than one might be accustomed to. The turtleneck is the antidote to staying warm, without feeling too heavy since it has such a finished versatile quality to it. Cultural icons such as Marilyn Monroe, Jane Fonda (pictured above) or Audrey Hepburn can all be seen rocking this look both in their films and off screen. In the film Barefoot in the Park, Jane Fonda’s Cori Bratter can be seen donning a turtleneck for a lot of the movie to stay warm in the New York City winter as she and her husband Paul, (played by Robert Redford) shamble through their newly married life. It also adds a cute accent to any jacket.
4. Bows/Ribbons
Between the Eras Tour and the success of the Barbie movie, 2023 has been a monumental year for women everywhere embracing femininity. Celebrities like Sabrina Carpenter and Gracie Abrams rocking bows in their hair have too been an inspiration, the latter sparking a whole tradition for her concert-goers to wear bows. There are many ways to style them, whether it’s braids, half-up half down, and in a similar fashion to cowboy boots, they’ve made their way to being represented in jewelry; even a trendy tattoo of choice. They can make any outfit feel extra put together. Continue to claim that divine feminine energy for the new year.
5. Friendship bracelets
The famous Taylor Swift lyric ‘Make the friendship bracelets, take the moment and taste it’ is a good life motto. Arguably the cutest tradition to emerge from the Eras Tour was trading friendship bracelets. I had never been to Kansas City in my life until I went to her second show in KC and I instantly felt welcomed with open arms when all these girls and I were exchanging friendship bracelets. The wholesome custom transcended beyond the Eras Tour to bring a second coming of friendship bracelets like it’s a sunny day at sleepaway camp where you’re on the porch with your friends all over again. Long live the friendship bracelet!
6. Modern Prep
Last but not least, preppy clothing. Live out your Upper East Side fantasy, you know you love to feel fancy. Think Gossip Girl or Parisian street fashion, both of which are timeless. There are numerous ways to rock this elegant aesthetic and partake in the lifestyle all year round. Donning tights in the colder months, a game of tennis in the summer, or just sitting on the Met Steps are a few things that come to mind. Embrace the versatility by incorporating loafers, or knee-high socks to complement your outfits. Don’t forget the iconic elements like plaid or argyle prints; blazers or cardigans draped over the shoulders for an effortlessly chic appearance. Preppy fashion offers endless possibilities to exude style and grace. See you in 2024, XOXO, The Crescent.
About Evelyn Young
Evelyn is a senior from the Chicago area majoring in Digital Media Practices and Jewish Studies with a minor in French. This past summer, she studied creative writing in Paris. Evelyn has held a variety of positions within the Crescent and is incredibly excited to begin her role as Senior Editor. After graduating from Tulane, she hopes to move to Los Angeles to pursue her film career.
Evelyn is a senior from the Chicago area majoring in Digital Media Practices and Jewish Studies with a minor in French. This past summer, she studied creative writing in Paris. Evelyn has held a variety of positions within the Crescent and is incredibly excited to begin her role as Senior Editor. After graduating from Tulane, she hopes to move to Los Angeles to pursue her film career.
