As we bid farewell to 2023 and welcome 2024 with open arms, it’s time to take a look back at the fashion trends that defined the past year. From unexpected viral sensations to the resurgence of old favorites, 2023 was a year of surprises and delightful contradictions. Here’s a look at the 9 fashion items that captured our collective imagination and left their mark on the year.
1. Boxer Briefs
It all started with Harry Styles. The pop star’s penchant for wearing high-waisted boxer briefs as outerwear ignited a global trend, making the once-private undergarment a bold fashion statement. From Dua Lipa to Timothée Chalamet, celebrities embraced the trend, inspiring everyday individuals to experiment with comfort and confidence.
2. No-Pants Looks
2023 was the year we collectively said goodbye to pants (sometimes). Celebrities like Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner were spotted rocking daring no-pants looks, often pairing oversized blazers or sweaters with tights or boots. This trend blurred the lines between casual and formal, pushing the boundaries of traditional dress codes.
3. Margiela Tabis
Maison Margiela’s iconic split-toe shoes continued their reign in 2023, becoming a must-have item for fashionistas and trendsetters alike. The Tabis, inspired by traditional Japanese socks, offered a unique and avant-garde twist on footwear, elevating any outfit with their subversive coolness.
4. The Britney Spears Effect
The release of Britney Spears’ tell-all memoir in November 2023 sparked a renewed interest in her early 2000s style. From crop tops and low-rise jeans to babydoll dresses and butterfly clips, the “Baby One More Time” era made a major comeback, proving that nostalgia is as powerful as ever in the fashion world.
5. Loro Piana Baseball Caps
Thanks to the hit HBO series “Succession,” Loro Piana’s cashmere baseball caps became a symbol of understated luxury. The show’s wealthy Roy family frequently sported these cozy caps, making them an aspirational item for fans and fashion enthusiasts alike.
6. Ballet Flats
The delicate grace of ballet flats found its way back into mainstream fashion in 2023. Inspired by the “balletcore” aesthetic, brands like Miu Miu, Sandy Liang, and Maison Margiela offered their own takes on the classic shoe, with Mary Janes, pointed flats, and ballerina-inspired pumps becoming wardrobe staples.
7. Bayonetta Glasses
Gaming and fashion collided in 2023 with the rise of Bayonetta-inspired eyewear. The stylish sunglasses worn by the titular video game character, featuring oversized frames and angular lenses, became a popular choice for those seeking a bold and futuristic look.
8. The Miu Miu Ballet Flat
No balletcore discussion would be complete without mentioning the Miu Miu ballet flat. This delicate shoe, adorned with a pearl buckle and satin ribbons, went viral in 2023, thanks to its timeless elegance and effortless charm.
9. The Return of the Fendi Baguette
The iconic Fendi baguette made a triumphant return in 2023, proving that true fashion icons never truly go out of style. Celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Bella Hadid were spotted carrying the baguette, reigniting the love for this early 2000s staple.