The Year of the Vintage: Iconic Vintage Trends That Are Making Their Comeback in 2023
Words Halla Hussein
As we finally draw the curtains on the year of 2022, it’s fair to say we saw quite the number of interesting themes emerge from the catwalks to sum up the year for us. With the MiuMiu micro sets and the bold and bright bottegas leading the high ranks to the arguable revival of the Uggs (we’re not mad), it’s hard not to get swept up with these much loved fan favourites. One trend we did not anticipate to be amongst that list however, was y2k’s return as one of the most sought-after styles of the year. From the top glam moments worn by the hottest Hollywood celebs to the everyday ‘model off-duty’ casuals, y2k has reclaimed its place on the catwalk and we can safely say that it that won’t be hitting the sack anytime soon. The recent runway scenes have shown us that one thing is for certain; keeping an open mind with regards to meeting the ever-changing fashion gaze should be a no brainer as we head into 2023. So what aesthetic is to be embraced next on the fashion calendar? We’re picturing a sexy grunge scene or perhaps even an old-school moment with a tailored waistcoat ensemble, a timeless wardrobe staple that will certainly never be outdated. As the past continues to be reborn into a new and modern era, we’ve decided that there’s no better time to put together a little vintage breakdown to help you channel your inner 90’s babe ahead of the upcoming seasons.
The Sexy Grunge Dream
It’s lights out for the 90s grunge scene as we know it, in 2023 fashion designers are tapping into Gen Z’ era of added glitz and glamour. The trend was first popularised to a luxury level in the 90s by renowned fashion designer, Marc Jacobs after a much controversial Perry Ellis’ SS93 collection. In spite of the show becoming a talking point by a gaggle of less than happy fashion critics, Jacobs defined the punk phenomenon as we know it and dominated the runways with a selection of edgy florals designs, raglan tees and traditional tartan prints. Fast forwarding to present day, the punk aesthetic continues to be adopted by many luxury fashion houses such as the likes of Alexander McQueen and Vivienne Westwood, who are known to embody the concept as a part of their brand aesthetic.
In 2023, we’re living out our sexy grunge dreams with lacey slip dresses, leather biker jackets, a pair of chunky combat boots and surely, we can’t forget the essentials, because what screams grunge more than levelling up your look with a statement piece choker. For an added sultry and feminine flair, complete your look with a glossy red lip, inspired by non-other than Kate Moss, the iconic model muse of the 90’s who is anything but a stranger to the rebellious notion.
Given that the trend is not particularly fitting to your taste (calling all girly-girls!), fear not as you can always dial down the punk by layering up your look with a cute cardi or even switch up the vibe with a pastel colour palette for a softer and more feminine look.
The Rebellious Return of The Mary Janes
The it girl shoe of the 60’s has officially made its way back into 2023 and rightly so! The Mary Janes have been reintroduced into the fashion scene with quite the makeover thanks to designers encompassing new and modern detailing to the classic footwear design. We now see multiple styling opportunities that can be sported all year round; flaunt them at late night festivities and parties or even take them to the office for a more sleek and business savvy style. It maybe that you wish to embrace the old-school, vintage charm of your MJ’s, in which case you can dress them up with a stylish pair of frilly socks during the layering seasons and opt for a more suitable sockless style during the warmer days of the year. The bottom line? Regardless of what your styling choices may be, rest assured that the Mary Jane’s have stood the test of time and fashion once again this season and have returned to add a sprinkle of light hearted sass to you look.
Corset Chaos
2023 is officially here to make the corset experience more enjoyable and less, what shall we say? Like a not-so-lovely mess just waiting to occur? It’s time to forget all the corset struggles you’ve seen in the historical period shows where digesting your food was merely a foreign experience; the new era of corsets takes on a more fun and relaxed approach that functions more as a fashion statement piece as compared to its traditional purpose of primary shapewear. From hot pink bustiers to laced up leather bodices’, there’s a line-up of stylish and unique corset styles to choose from, suitable for just about any and every event. For a more laid back look, perfect for the summer-y seasons, couple up your corset with some trendy wide legs jeans or a matching mini skirt, opt for a collared shirt layered underneath the corset for a more preppy and polished off look. For the ladies looking to make more of a statement this year, take your styling choices a step further and dazzle up your corset with some pearly white accents and gold or silver jewellery, relative to your liking of course.
A Plaid Love Affair
Next stop, pretty plaids! Whilst it’s still making hits on the catwalks, the much loved design has expanded its territory ahead of the season as fashion designers indulge into the more daring side of the old-school design. Whether you’ve been invited to attend the hottest party of the season or like us, you’d prefer to laze away the weekends after surviving a not-so-easy work week, the plaid pattern presents a number of styling opportunities that can be incorporated throughout your schedule. Despite the pattern seeing a great rise in popularity during the wintry seasons, who’s to say that we can’t channel a little “Clueless” moment during the sunnier days of the year. Branch out into a bright and bold colour palette this summer with some fun coordinating pieces or it may be that you wish to stick to a good old plaid flannel shirt, in which case some dainty jewellery and chic sneakers can be added on for a more refined look. If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by the whole head to toe plaid, and understandably so, rest assured as there are more ways to incorporate the design into your look book than you think. For a more light hearted and subtle feel, try introducing some plaid accessories into your wardrobe, a simple plaid scarf, hat or even bag will certainly be enough elevate and tie your whole look together.
