By Tyler Martin
Can you recall a time when Instagram wasn’t the go-to source for the latest and greatest trends? Social media has captivated this generation, playing a crucial role in shaping our perception of fashion. It’s crazy to think that just over a decade ago, social media wasn’t nearly as influential as it is today. As 2024 unfolds, it appears that the ever-evolving cycle of fashion trends is reviving the essence of 2014. A decade later, keeping the ten year fashion cycle in mind, the styles of 2014 are staging a massive comeback amongst the year’s other trends, and I am so here for it.
In recent years, the spotlight has been on the ‘clean girl’ look – an aesthetic characterized by minimal dressing, glowy skin, and an overall effortlessly perfect look. While this trend gained immense popularity, maintaining such a polished, flawless look requires time, effort and money. The resurgence of 2014 feels almost like a rejection of this meticulously polished look.
The 2014 style, popularized by social media platforms like Tumblr, embodies a laid-back, casual vibe with a hint of edginess, featuring a mix of pastels and grunge elements. Band tees, skater skirts, flannels, and cutoff denim shorts were must-have items of the time, with brands like American Apparel dominating the fashion scene with their affordable basics.
A couple recent moments in pop culture solidified the return of the 2014 aesthetic for me:
Influencers like Addison Rae are actively reviving the style. In one of her most recent Instagram posts, she posed in a fur coat and denim shorts, reminiscent of the 2014 aesthetic. Addison also shared mirror selfies featuring an older iPhone model and that iconic hazy, bluish filter, instantly transporting viewers back to 2014. By channeling her inner Tumblr girl, Addison is setting the tone for the trending look we can expect to see this year.
Similar to Addison, Olivia Rodrigo’s personal style also reflects the Tumblr girl era. She is frequently seen sporting the trendiest items of 2014 such as plaid skirts, black and white graphic tees and Converse sneakers.
Notably, Lana Del Ray’s Skims Valentine’s Day campaign has brought the 2014 vibe back to life. Skims is known for selecting models that resonate with diverse audiences, as seen in collaborations such as partnering with the NBA for the release of its menswear collection. I believe Lana Del Ray was strategically chosen for this collection as she appeals to both the millennials who adored her a decade ago and Gen-Z, who has grown to be infatuated with her unique aesthetic.
Kylie Jenner has joined the 2014 revival by dyeing her hair pastel pink, serving as a nostalgic nod to the era when she earned her famous title “King Kylie.” Kylie even posted a TikTok showcasing her new hair color with the caption “heard its 2014 vibes this year,” signaling an acknowledgement that 2014 is definitely making a stylish comeback, as announced by the King herself.
As the fashion cycle comes full circle, the resurgence of 2014 reminds us that while trends may evolve, they will inevitably find their way back into the limelight. When it comes to style, it seems that 2014 is not a distant memory, but instead an inspiration that is timeless, shaping the upcoming trends of 2024.
Cover artwork by Staff Member Athena Mamatas
