Fashion trends come and go, but some seem to overstay their welcome or make us wonder why they existed in the first place. From nostalgic throwbacks to bizarre modern takes, here are the top ten trends we’d be better off leaving in the past:
1. Over-the-Top Cropped Clothing
Cropped tops, cropped sweaters, and even cropped maternity wear—why is everything so short? This trend not only leaves you freezing in winter but also doubles the cost of fabric. Let’s bring back clothing that doesn’t leave us tugging at our midsections.
2. Broccoli Hair (aka Alpaca Perms)
Teen boys with poofy, curly hairstyles reminiscent of broccoli heads are everywhere. While embracing natural curls is great, the heavily styled and unnatural volume makes it look like we’re stuck in a bizarre simulation where alpacas are the ultimate hair influencers.
3. Massive Chunky Sneakers
Sci-fi-looking sneakers that seem ready for a Mars mission have taken over. While some embrace the comfort, others are left scratching their heads about why their shoes need to look like miniature spaceships.
4. Laminated Eyebrows
Brushed-up eyebrows, or “laminated brows,” might work for a photoshoot, but in real life, they often look like someone forgot to comb their face. Instead of semi-permanent salon treatments, a simple brush with gel would suffice.
5. Tucking Sweatpants into Socks
Once a necessity in tick country, this trend has bizarrely become mainstream. While practical in some situations, it often looks like someone got dressed for a camping trip but ended up at a coffee shop.
6. Fast Fashion’s Disposable Appeal
Fast fashion has taken its toll on the planet and our closets. Pieces that pill, shrink, or fall apart after a few washes are not worth the hype or the environmental cost. Sustainable, durable fashion should be the new trend.
7. Modern Mullets
The mullet resurgence—whether styled or sloppy—has overstayed its welcome. Pair it with a moustache, and you’ve got a look straight out of an ‘80s baseball card collection.
8. Tiny Sunglasses
The “tiny sunglasses” trend may scream chic, but it leaves our eyes squinting and unprotected from harmful UV rays. A fashion accessory that doesn’t prioritize functionality should be reconsidered.
9. Oversized Blazers
What started as a power move has become an exercise in swimming through fabric. Oversized blazers make even the most polished professionals look like they raided their parents’ closets.
10. “Vegan Leather” Scams
Vegan leather—or pleather—markets itself as an ethical alternative but often lacks durability and ends up in landfills. High-quality second-hand leather is a better, more sustainable choice.
Fashion is cyclical, but not every trend deserves a second (or third) life. Sometimes, it’s best to look forward and leave these questionable choices behind. Let’s hope the next wave of trends brings back some practicality and timeless style.
