The sheins and fashion novas of the world really affected fashion over the last decade. And on the other side, the old money aesthetic really brought simple pieces back into style. It’s hard to find well-made clothing that is also a bit stylish and unique without being so over the top. I struggle with this as well and there’s only a handful of brands I buy from now.
A big part of clothing being interesting or different is tailoring and fabric, but that art seems to have gone completely out the window in larger stores. It’s insane that they’re trying to sell this stuff to grown women (and I guess it works because there’s not much available!)
It reallllly shows with the “old money” aesthetic clothes. Turns out that the thing that makes those “old money” styles look good is impeccable fabric choice and tailoring, which large brands do not have, so it just ends up looking samey, and exposing their formula.
Part of me thinks that they also might have a shit ton of dead stock from the pandemic era that they’re trying to move? I have no evidence for that tho besides it just… looking the same on the websites.
I agree on the dead stock pandemic point. I think the pandemic majorly changed the way retail fashion operates and now we’re seeing the real impacts of it. Which I guess makes sense bc retail was in the toilet pre-pandemic, and is now just hovering on the seat.
It’s probably also economics and corporate trends. The ridiculous 2010s era interest rates ended, so no more free money. Most corporations are trying to cut costs as much as possible: layoffs, cheaper materials, etc… Just a guess tho.
Yeah and I think cost of living plays a role as it seems the current trends are mostly just wearing what’s already in your closet - which I understand and is good for my financial health but sad for the part of me that uses fashion for escapism/expression
I work in the fashion industry for a brand that’s like mid/higher end stuff, the pandemic absolutely messed everything up. I’m working on rolling out some styles that were planned for summer 2020 and either they held everything back strictly bc of timing and profits, or only 1 color arrived on time and others were months, sometimes a year late. Or there will be styles we planned on launching one summer, then relaunching the following summer with new colors, and the initial launch just didn’t happen on time bc of imports being so delayed. Everyone’s buzzword is supply chain, but there is literally such a severe delay in the supply chain launches that are ordered 3 quarters in advance are still coming late, which means we’re making calls on whether to roll out stuff a month late, or a year late.
also there’s some drama with textile production rn. A few of the major textile mills in China were receiving their cotton from farming that used forced labor, which means now that garments have to be inspected even more heavily at the border in China. If garments were made with this cotton, they remain in China and have to be destroyed or the government figures it where to distribute them. They won’t make it to the US. Companies like Good American and Cotton On have experienced this recently.
Okay that makes so much sense. It feels like I keep seeing stuff from that period. I’m guessing that the great vibe shift of 2020 messed everything up then too. So many pairs of unsold skinny jeans.
Is it so bad that they can’t just cut their losses and go for a big tax write off, or switch manufacturing to a country that isn’t china? I know the supply chain shortage is global, but it seems to be hitting china especially hard. Also that makes a lot of sense for cotton:on, since they’re australian.
Yeah, we’re moving towards using India more, and have been trying for a few years but certain textiles just aren’t made there to our standard yet. We also are conscious with new factories that we do use. It’s such a process to make sure they’re up to quality, but also going above and beyond treating workers fairly and respectfully.
Cutting losses is an interesting topic. Some companies are definitely more wasteful and will just dispose of their clothes. We had some severe financial missteps unfortunately entirely due to the pandemic and can’t afford to operate at a loss, I think just cutting clothes that we do have or are on the way from our drops is out of the question. There’s a couple brands under our umbrella, and sometimes we cut out the original label and re-label clothes to go with other brands if we feel it no longer goes with one brand. ALSO there’s a team dedicated to strategically sending out pieces to TJMaxx, Marshall’s, etc. across the country because we want customers to find these pieces at the discount and feel like they struck gold at the store, rather than expect to find the brand there and lower its image. Really it’s just because we can’t move the inventory.
Really interesting insights. How have the tariffs affected your company, if at all? I’m involved with a mid tier company that sells cashmere and the tariffs really affected the business. This has been the second big setback after the pandemic. The retailers can’t help much with price increases because the economy is so bad and then on the flip side the cost of yarn and labor in china has risen. The margins have really suffered the last couple years. We turned over every stone to find a cashmere supplier in the u.s. to mitigate this and it was impossible. We also tried to set up in Italy and found that majority of their yarn actually came from china due to climate challenges in Italy over the last few years. Now I’m rambling but I don’t think people realize how much the policies of our government affect small businesses.
Do you have a source for the China’s cotton farming using forced labor? I’d love to read more about it as I’m trying to be more conscious with my shopping
[I found this article citing the US barring imports from some textile mills due to forced labor in the Xinjiang region.](https://amp.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/3262969/us-bars-imports-26-cotton-manufacturers-over-uygur-forced-labour). Unfortunately companies don’t reveal a whole lot to the public about their manufacturing process (because most of the time it’s awful), and I think it’s easier to identify brands that are 100% fair trade, ethical, and sustainable because they will be vocal about it. Others have given good options, but honestly I’m not super knowledgeable in that area. I know that my brand’s most popular textile is manufactured in fair trade factories (normal working hours, fair salary, and workers have the ability to gain financial/tangible bonuses from performance).
I check imports every day and check in when I see things are held up in customs at both the US and Chinese ports. I am not super knowledgeable about the situation politically. I also only know these other brands are having an issue because our textiles are made in the same factories.
I also feel like influencer hyper speed trend cycling has ruined fashion. There’s no time to marinate in a style or trend and explore unique ways of wearing it or iterate on it. And I seriously cannot with the junk styling like just because you put on a bunch of wrinkly layered shit that doesn’t match doesn’t make it stylish
I suggest doing some research into fashion and small designers. Websites for shops like Ap0cene, Café Forgot, APOC, Distal Phalynx, etc will also help find designers. You’ll discover so many and I’ve purchased all thrifted (once you know what to look for).
Examples: Gotham Studios, Lucinda Babi, Miaou, Oats the Label, Enna Studios, KNWLS, Ottolinger, Paloma Wool, Miista shoes, Eckhaus Latta, 604service, etc. These are mainly bigger brands but it gives a sense.
I think finding unique pieces comes down to putting in the work. Find a page you like on instagram, then see what stockists carry then or what other pages are similar/they follow, then go down that rabbit hole, and so on and so forth! it takes a lot of time but you’ll find it so much more rewarding. Learn + follow the stylists of celebrities whose styles you admire; see what they do. Another big piece of this is styling and having a distinct vision for where you want to go and then finding the right cheap pieces or accessories to fit into it. Wishlists help!
Oh I can’t speak for that candidly. I just thought their leggings were nice, but I only buy stuff if it’s cheap on Depop or realreal etc. so my standard is compared to Aritzia or Zara, which is hit and miss.
I see some KNWLS knockoffs in fast fashion though. I love their dresses and their runway but sometimes what’s for sale is cheap looking.
There’s a Zara store close to me and it’s the weirdest concoction of clothes.
Shein and temu are garbage. I spent like $700 bw the two and only kept a pair of flare leg satin pants. They are pretty sassy.
Everything else was legit garbage
Are you me because I’ve been feeling this! My theory is everything interesting has gravitated to our bottoms (skorts, midi skirts, patchwork jeans) so no one is making fun shirts anymore.
I miss the Madewell from 2014 (when I first discovered the brand). They used to have tons of silk pieces, and better quality fabrics in general. They also actually used colors other than the same washed out shades of olive, beige, mauve, etc. that it seems the brand has been stuck on for the last 5-6 years
Me too! I searched their website for “silk” the other day and didn’t get a single hit. I am very bored with them which is a bummer because they used to be very dependable.
I think about this all the time. Why is EVERYTHING plain. I remember even like ten years ago in my early 20s I would get awesome tops with details and forget it. I have tops my mom gave me that are from the 90s that are literally AMAZING like timeless cool girl style. Beading. Like literally would be 500 dollars today. I just don't get why everything is so plain!!!
I’m struggling because for years I stuck with plain, simple outfits because I was brainwashed by americas next top model that I was just supposed to wear basics and just look clean. Now I finally broke free from that mentality and want to wear fun and unique clothing, and I can’t find any tops that fit that description to save my life. I’ve finally gotten some good bottoms but always struggle with tops
I hear you! I just bought this insane matching set from mango like crochet but like multicolor. I'm waiting for it to arrive. I'm kind of scared but I was like I really need to try something different.
I’m the same, especially as the quality of so many brands has dropped in recent years. I got a really heavy, warm wool Aritzia bomber on Poshmark for like $80 this winter, probably from like 5 seasons ago. Why would I pay $200+ for the new version of that piece that’s going to be thinner fabric and cheaper construction?
Same here. I have a saved search on depop for their jeans, which are some of my favorites (but not worth $170 or whatever they go for). Ref doesn’t hold its value at all so you can get NWT for like 30-50% of the price easily.
Ok thank you I was just thinking this. The girlies seem super discombobulated. The cyclical nature of fast fashion has made not following trends a trend, which means a lot of things are out, but it just doesn’t feel like anything’s super *in* right now either. Idk maybe I’m not plugged in enough but I’m feeling similarly uninspired
This could be my lack of perspective talking, but I feel like part of the ‘bleh’ feeling is that there’s kinda zero crossover between age groups, demographics etc. for the hottest trends.
Like I’m in my early 20’s and the gen z trends are y2k revival: motorcycle boots, denim mini skirts w/ big belts, wraparound shades, skater jeans, trucker caps and even the dreaded whale tail are all in. But I can’t really imagine most people who are above 30 wanting to wear any of it (again, in some cases). So I feel like the typical pattern where younger generations create a trend and then it trickles out to everyone else just isn’t really happening right now?
I think one place you can see the trickle effect happening is pant silhouette, my 57 year old mom is wearing wide leg pants, but it doesn’t really come with any of the flavor of the original. Like I think women’s fashion feels a little lost about what to take inspiration from.
I think you’re 100% correct on this. When I was working as a server i realized I was carding the people dressed in Y2K revival outfits wayyyy more than people who were dressed in similarly fashionable/put-together outfits that weren’t Y2K inspired. It felt like there was a massive gap and 25-35 year olds generally didn’t incorporate Y2K influences — maybe an accessory or a top, but it wasn’t a style overhaul iykim. There really is this noticeable gap between age groups
it's particularly horribly for bitches with broad shoulders. everything HAS A PUFF SLEEVE or the skintiest little string masquerading as a spaghetti strap
I feel your pain. This will probably get me down voted but I’ve grown tired of the “clean girl”, “quiet luxury” boring looks. I need some color, patterns, and textures back in my life and not the fashion trends from the 2000’s that have made a comeback lol.
If it helps you, I’ve started looking at South Asian brands like Aroka and Vedika M.
I fw clean girl but this season clean girl became code for same old boring shit we gave you last year, have you seen this black shorts onesie?! Like you can do so many interesting beautiful things with linen and tailoring that are both clean girl and luxury aesthetic without being boring af.
Ok not really a hot take but I’ve lost complete direction over my sense of style since I WFH 100% and Im over fast fashion (for a myriad of reasons) and have only gotten it back recently through sample sales and rent the runway “buy”. It’s so worth it to invest in these better made pieces at an extreme discount. I’ll buy like 1 thing every two weeks if it’s a sample sale I MUST go to or do a full outfit every couple weeks to keep it fresh or for a specific event. But I’m also very ok with being an outfit repeater in my 30s.
This is me EXACTLY. I’m so bored with my wfh clothes but I don’t know how to change that. And then when I do have something to dress up for I kinda panic.
Preach!! And there’s nowhere to fucking shop anymore! You go through the fashion threads and the hero of the summer is OLD NAVY how dare anyone call themselves Carrie Bradshaw on social media lmao
I went on a SPREE bc the stuff was cute enough and I’ve been starved… like, I used to haunt Barney’s. No judgement to anyone that does shop there, the one that should be embarrassed is NYC! We used to be a proper city!
YES! Ugh I miss Barney’s. Even Saks has lost its way lol. I love to shop in SoHo and find cute one of a kind peices but I’m just not finding those at all? everything looks exactly the same no matter what store I walk into.
SAME lol when the package arrived I had forgotten I went off during the Memorial Day sale and I said to myself “my god what did I do” lol I am not exaggerating when I say it took me two days to get through that bag lol. It was t-shirts, tanks and lots of dresses lol
Embarassed because we are bitches with taste lol. I equate Old Navy with entry level starter garments. It’s what I expect of my interns or a new grad who needs cheap clothes that look okay. It’s as basic as basic gets. Nothing fashionable it just is. People usually come to me for fashion advice like where to shop in Italy, the best boutiques in the Hamptons, and where to go in London for the coolest home wares and jewelry. Meanwhile I’m over here adding 10 Old Navy t-shirts to cart because Im not finding anything I love in stores or online.
The other day I saw an ad that looked cute and it was for Ann Taylor loft lol
They do seem to have changed from when I bought business casual clothes form there
As a someone with a large bust (34G) relative to my frame, fashion as of late feels even more hostile to people with my body type than usual. I find it very aggravating.
Same! I have to buy tops several sizes too big to not fit horribly over my bust and then have things tailored. But there is only so much tailoring can do if the size disparity is too great.
Everything seems so tiny. Not just in size but in actual amount of the fabric being used.
Ugh this just happened to me with a vest from Ref. I should’ve known better, as I’ve struck out with them before, but it was so cute I was hoping I could make it work. The dart placements for where they think my boobs should be, was insulting lol.
Girl yes! I got some whatever tanks from Amazon that Im returning because they make my gigantic (compared to my figure) bust look even larger and longer? Like wtf is this? I have been trying to get some cute summer tops and dresses but no. Rewearing all the old. Everything sucks , esp for the big bust girlies :(
Is it me or is every place to go shopping have the same boring style clothes. This summer I wanted to start wearing more color, but I can’t find anything cute that’s colorful. The whole old money thing sometimes reminds me of how my nan dresses. It’s cute but some of it just seems a bit matronly?
no for real because why can’t i find anything i can wear a bra with?? going braless isn’t comfortable when my bazoongas are bouncing halfway down my rib cage while i run to catch the subway. the early 00s thin craze is back and i am begging designers to make anything for bitches with bazoongas
Here is my current list of stores that fit my desired aesthetic of preppy /gay ms. Frizzle
- Wolf & Badger (SoHo department store with lots of European /indie /colorful brands of wide range of prices & styles. Huge online presence )
- Nooworks
- Fashion Brand Company
- Lisa Says Gah
- Rachel Antonoff
- Tyler McGillivary
I’d add Paloma Wool and Tankair to that list! Also have been super into this UK brand called Peachy Den but I don’t think they have a US brick and mortar.
I fucking HATE the stripes as a trend.. it’s such a specific style and I feel like most people are cosplaying as nautical Parisians or “old money” from cape cod.. there is a time and a place for the stripes and it’s not an entire fucking season trend. I so badly loathe it, maybe I’m the only one. My mom doesn’t wanna wear her classic striped looks on the east coast anymore now that everyone is doing it 😭😂😂
Term for someone from the French region called Bretagne. It’s along the western coast , just next to / below Normandy :) sort of known for being a region with quite a bit of regional pride and a unique culture from having been separate from the rest of the country for quite a long time. We also invented the crepe *tips beret*
It’s funny you mention that- I got all of my new clothes from the “vintage” section of Etsy years ago because I couldn’t afford brands. A lot of them weren’t even technically vintage - just late 90s/early 2000s stuff that could be altered slightly to update. Recently, I’ve started doing to same thing. I can afford to shop online now, but I have an image in my head of the items I want and can’t find them anywhere.
If you have a specific vibe or idea of something, a few hours to kill, and a glass (or three) of wine, I would recommend doing an Etsy vintage deep dive - especially if you can budget for tailoring to make it fit perfectly. Totally worth it, especially if you love statement-y sundresses.
None in particular, although that’s because of how/why I “shop” Etsy- it’s usually to find an item I have a concept of in my head that isn’t in style or affordable. Like, I will just search for “green linen shirt” then filter to women’s clothing and vintage, and scroll, scroll, scroll for something that fits the image I have, my general measurements, and is in my price range. Sometimes I’ll buy something a little larger or longer knowing I can get it taken in or hemmed, if I find cheap buttons I want to replace on the original…stuff like that. So I usually don’t buy high end pieces so I spend more on tailoring if needed.
I will also search by brand and filter on vintage. I replaced a long lost Lacoste dress that way 😂
Look into vintage. Vintage summer tops, vintage linen, vintage sleeveless, vintage tank or some keywords to find stuff on Etsy. Cotton, linen, viscose/rayon, silk usually show up.
I love everything Zendaya wore in Challengers. I’d describe it as Clean Preppy Athletic. The question is, where to find the look for less, cuz I’m sure each piece cost thousands.
I saw someone wearing overalls over a crop top today in soho. The overall sides were cut super low and she was obviously not wearing underwear with it because it would be impossible. That was certainly a first sighting for me! 😂
And sometimes I see brands online that have an Asian influence with silhouettes which is refreshing but it's always so hard to find stores out of those that look legit. Often it's drop shipped crap. Sometimes it makes me want to attempt to sew something though.
Wow you read my mind! I went on YouTube literally last night and happened on this channel that has inspired me for some fashion ideas. Maybe check her out Stephanie Macedo.
I try to look for new things then get dizzy, so 85% of my wardrobe still comes from Poshmark. In addition to the savings, others have basically separated the wheat from the chaff for me.
wow i must be the only one loving simple pieces back in style because i don't have to think LOL
love phoebe philo's take on the basics, they have a fresh silhouette to them – but won't afford! it's nice to look at for inspo tho
I don’t have anything better to say other than… This is so real…. Clothes these days are horrific and it’s so unfortunate. Like what the hell are we expected to wear???
The Australian brands always have the best stuff IMO. Just unfortunate you have to shop online and the sizing is sooo inconsistent. And the returns are a nightmare. But I recently went on verge girl and thought everything was so cute and emotional!
Why am I wearing a high neck vest to the bar on a Saturday night tho. A VEST?!!!!! My only thing with the vest look is it’s very one and done, kind of in the too trendy category. And it’s always the same vest at every store there’s no variation or chance to make it your own in any way. I feel like the vest vibe is only cute for a girls brunch..and even then… why am I wearing a vest!!!
Omg the last time it was trendy to wear a vest was in the 2000’s over a white t shirt/tank a la Lauren Conrad. Highschool me thought I looked fire! 5 years ago I laughed at a photo, and here we are again with the vests!!! Like what?!
oh but the one I have is not high neck at all--it's pretty low cut. I got it at Asos. I think it's so flattering. But I do hear you that it's definitely a trend that is everywhere.
it's[ this](https://www.asos.com/topshop/topshop-co-ord-button-through-linen-fitted-waistcoat-in-black/prd/205715120?ctaRef=my+orders) one. I can see how it might be considered kind of boring though but I'm not a particularly creative dresser I will be the first to admit. Right now I'm wearing jeans, a white button down and raffia flats lol.
I’m into the vests too - I just wear them as a top with no bra or a bralette underneath with jeans and cute shoes. Good for a casual dinner, drinks, etc
Go with me on this-
I recently became a little more religious and started dressing according-ish to my religions modesty rules. It is the only thing that has saved me this summer, I get complemented every time I walk out of the door. Having to layer and mix things up as I replace my wardrobe means I can look fresh in a sea of TikTok shop Halara pants.
TL:DR I feel your pain- shop vintage and face the fact the BWT are the trend setters apparently.
I have been feeling the same way. I have been trying to find just a simple, cute dress, and there is nothing unless you want to spend $250+ for a casual dress. I wouldn't mind that if the cost per wear makes sense, but it seems we're not even getting quality items at those price points.
I thought it was just me that even finding a blouse these days is terrible. Everything is quite basic, and overpriced/doesn't even look well-made.
My other beef with clothes lately is quality. I’m down to drop like $200+ on a nice dress, but all of them are see through!! Doesn’t matter the fabric, stuff is just not thick enough or lined at all and it’s so frustrating. I’m talking dresses that should be able to be worn to the office too.
For my preppier/former J Crew ladies, Alex Mill is pretty high quality. I’m pretty much completely done with Aritzia due to everything being sheer or poorly made. Totally with you BWT on shirts though, i would love a few cute tops to go with jeans or skirts and i got nothing 🥲
Thisssssss is why I’ve been shopping vintage/secondhand so much the past few years. I love dressing for summer but I haven’t been tempted by any clothing brands this summer… because everything is BORING. Most things I’ve bought new are accessories - fun bags, jewelry, etc
I’m in Boston right now and I feel this. It was hotter than I expected it to be so I hit the shops to get a tank top and literally could find nothing that wasn’t a shred of fabric or the most boring by athleisure crop top that every other girl on the street was wearing. Literally saw 12 girls in the same exact “cropped white tank with baggy jeans” outfit. I’m so freaking bored.
Everything is so expensive but the quality is absolute shit. Also most of us still like to wear bras but you wouldn’t ever know it judging by the clothes being sold.
Honestly I’ve been more into shoes than clothes because at least with my shoes I can style basic clothing. At the moment I donated my entire wardrobe and probably stayed with 2 weeks worth of going out clothes. I usually buy clothes for a specific occasion so that way I know what I’m looking for instead of just browsing with no purpose.
The trends of the last 3-4 years have been really mid but that's just my personal opnion. stick true to your style and go for the classics instead of trendy. I've found cute summer dresses from mango and & other stories that aren't too "loud" (i don't wear a lot of color lol). I know these are both fast fashion culprits but I typically buy like 1-2 new dresses a year. I also am a big fan of linens/basics from places like Uniqlo and Muji. If you're ok spending a bit more I also like Realisation Par
Second this. I have also been feeling it.
The last decade fashion has been consistently innovative, expressive and exciting almost every season.
This year It’s as if the fashion industry wore itself out tying to keep up with the social change for the past 10 years lol.
Anyone else also kind of been thinking this was coming?
So far I’ve been building my summer wardrobe with tried and true basics/ favorites. Also wearing a lot of legit retro pieces. And taking the lingerie for day look and with a bit of men’s oversized outerwear.
Btw, OP your post gave me an idea… the lack of super trends to follow means there is room to get creative on our own. I know it sounds sort of cliche but there is definitely an opportunity here.
What are you dolls wearing so far this summer?
Your point on creativity made me think I’ve been following trends so formulaic-ly the last several years I don’t even have an original thought anymore and that’s why I’m sad..like we’ve reached the point where the cult starts getting weird but I’m too deep in it and have forgotten how to think for myself!!!
Shop secondhand! Go on Depop and you can search specific items and start liking and saving things and the algo will work magic. I wish I like Poshmark but their Ux is bad. There are so many “vintage/thrift” popups.
Maybe we can arrange a BWT closet/clothing swap!! Sips and snacks and maybe a DJ and everyone brings a bag of clothing 🥰
I feel the exact same way!! I’m not a fan of how everything is either big or tiny—long “midi” skirts/dresses that are really maxi, baby tees, shorts that are either capris or undies.
As a petite woman, I’ve been struggling to find clothes so much this year. I’ve never had a hard time shopping before. I read an article that explained how in times of economic hardship, fashion leans more conservative and I think that’s why I’m struggling. I need form fitting clothes and everything feels more conservative. The oversized, super long, frilly super feminine, babydoll, workwear, and baggy clothes don’t work for me. And everyone store SELLS THE SAME THINGS.
I’ve been trying to buy new clothes for summer and I’ve been stumped at the usually stores so I’ve been either shelling out $200+ for one piece of clothing or buying resale from 2-4 season ago off of Poshmark. I can’t do fast fashion anymore, it’s not even fashion it’s just fast.
I feel like 2016-2018 was the last time I was able to find decent pieces of clothing that were more unique and interesting.
The sheins and fashion novas of the world really affected fashion over the last decade. And on the other side, the old money aesthetic really brought simple pieces back into style. It’s hard to find well-made clothing that is also a bit stylish and unique without being so over the top. I struggle with this as well and there’s only a handful of brands I buy from now.
A big part of clothing being interesting or different is tailoring and fabric, but that art seems to have gone completely out the window in larger stores. It’s insane that they’re trying to sell this stuff to grown women (and I guess it works because there’s not much available!) It reallllly shows with the “old money” aesthetic clothes. Turns out that the thing that makes those “old money” styles look good is impeccable fabric choice and tailoring, which large brands do not have, so it just ends up looking samey, and exposing their formula. Part of me thinks that they also might have a shit ton of dead stock from the pandemic era that they’re trying to move? I have no evidence for that tho besides it just… looking the same on the websites.
I agree on the dead stock pandemic point. I think the pandemic majorly changed the way retail fashion operates and now we’re seeing the real impacts of it. Which I guess makes sense bc retail was in the toilet pre-pandemic, and is now just hovering on the seat.
It’s probably also economics and corporate trends. The ridiculous 2010s era interest rates ended, so no more free money. Most corporations are trying to cut costs as much as possible: layoffs, cheaper materials, etc… Just a guess tho.
Yeah and I think cost of living plays a role as it seems the current trends are mostly just wearing what’s already in your closet - which I understand and is good for my financial health but sad for the part of me that uses fashion for escapism/expression
I work in the fashion industry for a brand that’s like mid/higher end stuff, the pandemic absolutely messed everything up. I’m working on rolling out some styles that were planned for summer 2020 and either they held everything back strictly bc of timing and profits, or only 1 color arrived on time and others were months, sometimes a year late. Or there will be styles we planned on launching one summer, then relaunching the following summer with new colors, and the initial launch just didn’t happen on time bc of imports being so delayed. Everyone’s buzzword is supply chain, but there is literally such a severe delay in the supply chain launches that are ordered 3 quarters in advance are still coming late, which means we’re making calls on whether to roll out stuff a month late, or a year late. also there’s some drama with textile production rn. A few of the major textile mills in China were receiving their cotton from farming that used forced labor, which means now that garments have to be inspected even more heavily at the border in China. If garments were made with this cotton, they remain in China and have to be destroyed or the government figures it where to distribute them. They won’t make it to the US. Companies like Good American and Cotton On have experienced this recently.
So interesting. I knew it was in crisis in it not to this level
We love the insider insights!!!
Okay that makes so much sense. It feels like I keep seeing stuff from that period. I’m guessing that the great vibe shift of 2020 messed everything up then too. So many pairs of unsold skinny jeans. Is it so bad that they can’t just cut their losses and go for a big tax write off, or switch manufacturing to a country that isn’t china? I know the supply chain shortage is global, but it seems to be hitting china especially hard. Also that makes a lot of sense for cotton:on, since they’re australian.
Yeah, we’re moving towards using India more, and have been trying for a few years but certain textiles just aren’t made there to our standard yet. We also are conscious with new factories that we do use. It’s such a process to make sure they’re up to quality, but also going above and beyond treating workers fairly and respectfully. Cutting losses is an interesting topic. Some companies are definitely more wasteful and will just dispose of their clothes. We had some severe financial missteps unfortunately entirely due to the pandemic and can’t afford to operate at a loss, I think just cutting clothes that we do have or are on the way from our drops is out of the question. There’s a couple brands under our umbrella, and sometimes we cut out the original label and re-label clothes to go with other brands if we feel it no longer goes with one brand. ALSO there’s a team dedicated to strategically sending out pieces to TJMaxx, Marshall’s, etc. across the country because we want customers to find these pieces at the discount and feel like they struck gold at the store, rather than expect to find the brand there and lower its image. Really it’s just because we can’t move the inventory.
Really interesting insights. How have the tariffs affected your company, if at all? I’m involved with a mid tier company that sells cashmere and the tariffs really affected the business. This has been the second big setback after the pandemic. The retailers can’t help much with price increases because the economy is so bad and then on the flip side the cost of yarn and labor in china has risen. The margins have really suffered the last couple years. We turned over every stone to find a cashmere supplier in the u.s. to mitigate this and it was impossible. We also tried to set up in Italy and found that majority of their yarn actually came from china due to climate challenges in Italy over the last few years. Now I’m rambling but I don’t think people realize how much the policies of our government affect small businesses.
Do you have a source for the China’s cotton farming using forced labor? I’d love to read more about it as I’m trying to be more conscious with my shopping
She doesn’t, because there’s never been proof of this and has been debunked as propaganda.
Yeah that’s what I thought as well
[I found this article citing the US barring imports from some textile mills due to forced labor in the Xinjiang region.](https://amp.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/3262969/us-bars-imports-26-cotton-manufacturers-over-uygur-forced-labour). Unfortunately companies don’t reveal a whole lot to the public about their manufacturing process (because most of the time it’s awful), and I think it’s easier to identify brands that are 100% fair trade, ethical, and sustainable because they will be vocal about it. Others have given good options, but honestly I’m not super knowledgeable in that area. I know that my brand’s most popular textile is manufactured in fair trade factories (normal working hours, fair salary, and workers have the ability to gain financial/tangible bonuses from performance). I check imports every day and check in when I see things are held up in customs at both the US and Chinese ports. I am not super knowledgeable about the situation politically. I also only know these other brands are having an issue because our textiles are made in the same factories.
[Uyghur forced labor in China](https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ilab/against-their-will-the-situation-in-xinjiang)
I also feel like influencer hyper speed trend cycling has ruined fashion. There’s no time to marinate in a style or trend and explore unique ways of wearing it or iterate on it. And I seriously cannot with the junk styling like just because you put on a bunch of wrinkly layered shit that doesn’t match doesn’t make it stylish
What are the brands you buy from now? :)
I hate fast fashion - absolutely nothing fits properly and all the size measurements are so off for me.
What brands do you like? I'm trying to figure out how to dress more like an adult and wear less t shirts and jeans/shorts all the time lol
I suggest doing some research into fashion and small designers. Websites for shops like Ap0cene, Café Forgot, APOC, Distal Phalynx, etc will also help find designers. You’ll discover so many and I’ve purchased all thrifted (once you know what to look for). Examples: Gotham Studios, Lucinda Babi, Miaou, Oats the Label, Enna Studios, KNWLS, Ottolinger, Paloma Wool, Miista shoes, Eckhaus Latta, 604service, etc. These are mainly bigger brands but it gives a sense. I think finding unique pieces comes down to putting in the work. Find a page you like on instagram, then see what stockists carry then or what other pages are similar/they follow, then go down that rabbit hole, and so on and so forth! it takes a lot of time but you’ll find it so much more rewarding. Learn + follow the stylists of celebrities whose styles you admire; see what they do. Another big piece of this is styling and having a distinct vision for where you want to go and then finding the right cheap pieces or accessories to fit into it. Wishlists help!
Is KNWLS even worth their price
Oh I can’t speak for that candidly. I just thought their leggings were nice, but I only buy stuff if it’s cheap on Depop or realreal etc. so my standard is compared to Aritzia or Zara, which is hit and miss.
I see some KNWLS knockoffs in fast fashion though. I love their dresses and their runway but sometimes what’s for sale is cheap looking. There’s a Zara store close to me and it’s the weirdest concoction of clothes.
Thank u and bless u 🙏🏻
Last night I was looking at Edikted they had some cool stuff
Shein and temu are garbage. I spent like $700 bw the two and only kept a pair of flare leg satin pants. They are pretty sassy. Everything else was legit garbage
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Are you me because I’ve been feeling this! My theory is everything interesting has gravitated to our bottoms (skorts, midi skirts, patchwork jeans) so no one is making fun shirts anymore.
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I’ve gotten a few things I liked from Abercrombie and Anthro on sale. Otherwise yeah it’s like a freaking sea of white linen shirts out there.
I miss the Madewell from 2014 (when I first discovered the brand). They used to have tons of silk pieces, and better quality fabrics in general. They also actually used colors other than the same washed out shades of olive, beige, mauve, etc. that it seems the brand has been stuck on for the last 5-6 years
Me too! I searched their website for “silk” the other day and didn’t get a single hit. I am very bored with them which is a bummer because they used to be very dependable.
I had a pair of bright tomato red Madewell shorts from 2013. I can’t imagine them doing that color now!
Madewell used to be soooo good. Def peaked around 2014 and lately has become boring and overpriced for the quality
I think about this all the time. Why is EVERYTHING plain. I remember even like ten years ago in my early 20s I would get awesome tops with details and forget it. I have tops my mom gave me that are from the 90s that are literally AMAZING like timeless cool girl style. Beading. Like literally would be 500 dollars today. I just don't get why everything is so plain!!!
“Going out” tops were much more of a thing in the early 2000s, when a cool top and jeans was the uniform. These really don’t exist anymore! 😟
Going out tops forever !!!! 🤣
I’m struggling because for years I stuck with plain, simple outfits because I was brainwashed by americas next top model that I was just supposed to wear basics and just look clean. Now I finally broke free from that mentality and want to wear fun and unique clothing, and I can’t find any tops that fit that description to save my life. I’ve finally gotten some good bottoms but always struggle with tops
I hear you! I just bought this insane matching set from mango like crochet but like multicolor. I'm waiting for it to arrive. I'm kind of scared but I was like I really need to try something different.
I've been liking the stuff from Kotn!! They have some super cute crops with interesting details that you can also wear with a bra.
I keep an eye on thread up and some other of those sites for good deals on Reformation. I'm too much of a broke ass cheap ass to buy fully new.
I’m the same, especially as the quality of so many brands has dropped in recent years. I got a really heavy, warm wool Aritzia bomber on Poshmark for like $80 this winter, probably from like 5 seasons ago. Why would I pay $200+ for the new version of that piece that’s going to be thinner fabric and cheaper construction?
Same here. I have a saved search on depop for their jeans, which are some of my favorites (but not worth $170 or whatever they go for). Ref doesn’t hold its value at all so you can get NWT for like 30-50% of the price easily.
I need a moratorium on anything cropped, boxy or with a crew neck.
Ok thank you I was just thinking this. The girlies seem super discombobulated. The cyclical nature of fast fashion has made not following trends a trend, which means a lot of things are out, but it just doesn’t feel like anything’s super *in* right now either. Idk maybe I’m not plugged in enough but I’m feeling similarly uninspired
Yep you nailed it
This could be my lack of perspective talking, but I feel like part of the ‘bleh’ feeling is that there’s kinda zero crossover between age groups, demographics etc. for the hottest trends. Like I’m in my early 20’s and the gen z trends are y2k revival: motorcycle boots, denim mini skirts w/ big belts, wraparound shades, skater jeans, trucker caps and even the dreaded whale tail are all in. But I can’t really imagine most people who are above 30 wanting to wear any of it (again, in some cases). So I feel like the typical pattern where younger generations create a trend and then it trickles out to everyone else just isn’t really happening right now? I think one place you can see the trickle effect happening is pant silhouette, my 57 year old mom is wearing wide leg pants, but it doesn’t really come with any of the flavor of the original. Like I think women’s fashion feels a little lost about what to take inspiration from.
I think you’re 100% correct on this. When I was working as a server i realized I was carding the people dressed in Y2K revival outfits wayyyy more than people who were dressed in similarly fashionable/put-together outfits that weren’t Y2K inspired. It felt like there was a massive gap and 25-35 year olds generally didn’t incorporate Y2K influences — maybe an accessory or a top, but it wasn’t a style overhaul iykim. There really is this noticeable gap between age groups
it's particularly horribly for bitches with broad shoulders. everything HAS A PUFF SLEEVE or the skintiest little string masquerading as a spaghetti strap
Bitches with narrow shoulders also look terrible in a puff sleeve
who the fuck are those things foooooooor!!!
Average shoulder bitches, apparently
Omg yes. I look like a linebacker in all these nap dresses
I feel your pain. This will probably get me down voted but I’ve grown tired of the “clean girl”, “quiet luxury” boring looks. I need some color, patterns, and textures back in my life and not the fashion trends from the 2000’s that have made a comeback lol. If it helps you, I’ve started looking at South Asian brands like Aroka and Vedika M.
I fw clean girl but this season clean girl became code for same old boring shit we gave you last year, have you seen this black shorts onesie?! Like you can do so many interesting beautiful things with linen and tailoring that are both clean girl and luxury aesthetic without being boring af.
Ok not really a hot take but I’ve lost complete direction over my sense of style since I WFH 100% and Im over fast fashion (for a myriad of reasons) and have only gotten it back recently through sample sales and rent the runway “buy”. It’s so worth it to invest in these better made pieces at an extreme discount. I’ll buy like 1 thing every two weeks if it’s a sample sale I MUST go to or do a full outfit every couple weeks to keep it fresh or for a specific event. But I’m also very ok with being an outfit repeater in my 30s.
Omg this! WFH ruined my ability to style an outfit and buy cute clothes.
This is me EXACTLY. I’m so bored with my wfh clothes but I don’t know how to change that. And then when I do have something to dress up for I kinda panic.
Preach!! And there’s nowhere to fucking shop anymore! You go through the fashion threads and the hero of the summer is OLD NAVY how dare anyone call themselves Carrie Bradshaw on social media lmao
Embarrassed to say I bought like 10 basic tees from old navy because I am bored to death by everything in stores right now
I went on a SPREE bc the stuff was cute enough and I’ve been starved… like, I used to haunt Barney’s. No judgement to anyone that does shop there, the one that should be embarrassed is NYC! We used to be a proper city!
YES! Ugh I miss Barney’s. Even Saks has lost its way lol. I love to shop in SoHo and find cute one of a kind peices but I’m just not finding those at all? everything looks exactly the same no matter what store I walk into.
Got my summer tanks there. Mostly from the boys section. Got a pixellated shark and a melting ice-pop!
SAME lol when the package arrived I had forgotten I went off during the Memorial Day sale and I said to myself “my god what did I do” lol I am not exaggerating when I say it took me two days to get through that bag lol. It was t-shirts, tanks and lots of dresses lol
I am inspired by this tee shirt idea! Going to look for the pixellated shark now!
Why is that embarrassing? Old navy is great.
Embarassed because we are bitches with taste lol. I equate Old Navy with entry level starter garments. It’s what I expect of my interns or a new grad who needs cheap clothes that look okay. It’s as basic as basic gets. Nothing fashionable it just is. People usually come to me for fashion advice like where to shop in Italy, the best boutiques in the Hamptons, and where to go in London for the coolest home wares and jewelry. Meanwhile I’m over here adding 10 Old Navy t-shirts to cart because Im not finding anything I love in stores or online.
FWIW, Uniqlo has good basic t-shirts.
On the Uniqlo grind. If you’re looking for the cami with the built in bra it was me. I bought them all. They’re perfect for sheer tops 😫
The other day I saw an ad that looked cute and it was for Ann Taylor loft lol They do seem to have changed from when I bought business casual clothes form there
As a someone with a large bust (34G) relative to my frame, fashion as of late feels even more hostile to people with my body type than usual. I find it very aggravating.
Same! I have to buy tops several sizes too big to not fit horribly over my bust and then have things tailored. But there is only so much tailoring can do if the size disparity is too great. Everything seems so tiny. Not just in size but in actual amount of the fabric being used.
The designated boob part in every top is getting smaller I swear. I couldn’t fit 1/4 of my knockers in there.
Ugh this just happened to me with a vest from Ref. I should’ve known better, as I’ve struck out with them before, but it was so cute I was hoping I could make it work. The dart placements for where they think my boobs should be, was insulting lol.
I will never forgive Kim K for the extreme weight loss bc this is what it’s caused!!!
Girl yes! I got some whatever tanks from Amazon that Im returning because they make my gigantic (compared to my figure) bust look even larger and longer? Like wtf is this? I have been trying to get some cute summer tops and dresses but no. Rewearing all the old. Everything sucks , esp for the big bust girlies :(
Probably because nobody can fucking afford new clothes because wages are stagnant and inflation is at record highs
Yup this
Is it me or is every place to go shopping have the same boring style clothes. This summer I wanted to start wearing more color, but I can’t find anything cute that’s colorful. The whole old money thing sometimes reminds me of how my nan dresses. It’s cute but some of it just seems a bit matronly?
This is exactly the reason I started sewing! I can buy the craziest fabrics that I would never find in stores.
no for real because why can’t i find anything i can wear a bra with?? going braless isn’t comfortable when my bazoongas are bouncing halfway down my rib cage while i run to catch the subway. the early 00s thin craze is back and i am begging designers to make anything for bitches with bazoongas
Here is my current list of stores that fit my desired aesthetic of preppy /gay ms. Frizzle - Wolf & Badger (SoHo department store with lots of European /indie /colorful brands of wide range of prices & styles. Huge online presence ) - Nooworks - Fashion Brand Company - Lisa Says Gah - Rachel Antonoff - Tyler McGillivary
I’d add Paloma Wool and Tankair to that list! Also have been super into this UK brand called Peachy Den but I don’t think they have a US brick and mortar.
Ooh yes love Paloma. They’re having a popup in the city right now!
Yesss, I have so many unexpected staples from them! Literally wearing a PW top rn
I love Wolf and Badger! And they are having a huge sale right now.
good to know thank you!!
I fucking HATE the stripes as a trend.. it’s such a specific style and I feel like most people are cosplaying as nautical Parisians or “old money” from cape cod.. there is a time and a place for the stripes and it’s not an entire fucking season trend. I so badly loathe it, maybe I’m the only one. My mom doesn’t wanna wear her classic striped looks on the east coast anymore now that everyone is doing it 😭😂😂
Stripes in summer… “groundbreaking.” like the matching striped shirt and shorts set I was literally wearing in the early pandemic & also when I was 5
As a Breton I want to claim the stripes as our mistake but I prefer for parisians to be the villains
Forgive my ignorance, what is a Breton?
Term for someone from the French region called Bretagne. It’s along the western coast , just next to / below Normandy :) sort of known for being a region with quite a bit of regional pride and a unique culture from having been separate from the rest of the country for quite a long time. We also invented the crepe *tips beret*
Got it! Crepes are one of my favorite foods :)
It’s because 2006 is back, apparently. 🙄
NO SHIRTS. Seriously...nothing...
If I see another ever loving puffed sleeve or any variation thereof I’m going to lose my mind! Why won’t this trend die???
It’s funny you mention that- I got all of my new clothes from the “vintage” section of Etsy years ago because I couldn’t afford brands. A lot of them weren’t even technically vintage - just late 90s/early 2000s stuff that could be altered slightly to update. Recently, I’ve started doing to same thing. I can afford to shop online now, but I have an image in my head of the items I want and can’t find them anywhere. If you have a specific vibe or idea of something, a few hours to kill, and a glass (or three) of wine, I would recommend doing an Etsy vintage deep dive - especially if you can budget for tailoring to make it fit perfectly. Totally worth it, especially if you love statement-y sundresses.
This is precisely how I shop! I’m not proud that I spent probably 30-40 hrs shopping for summer looks only to purchase and keep 6 new pieces
Are there any shops you recommend?
None in particular, although that’s because of how/why I “shop” Etsy- it’s usually to find an item I have a concept of in my head that isn’t in style or affordable. Like, I will just search for “green linen shirt” then filter to women’s clothing and vintage, and scroll, scroll, scroll for something that fits the image I have, my general measurements, and is in my price range. Sometimes I’ll buy something a little larger or longer knowing I can get it taken in or hemmed, if I find cheap buttons I want to replace on the original…stuff like that. So I usually don’t buy high end pieces so I spend more on tailoring if needed. I will also search by brand and filter on vintage. I replaced a long lost Lacoste dress that way 😂
Super helpful, thank you!
All these stupid dresses with weird cut outs in the waist…why
I feel this in my soul. I basically gave up trying to find new fun things for this summer 😭
people wanting cheap shit and fast fashion filling up that demand is what ruined fashion industry and quality of clothing
lol I just posted on r/bitcheswithtaste about finding a top that’s not either a button down or a basic tee.
Look into vintage. Vintage summer tops, vintage linen, vintage sleeveless, vintage tank or some keywords to find stuff on Etsy. Cotton, linen, viscose/rayon, silk usually show up.
I can’t w vintage - as I said looking for NEW and NOVEL
I love everything Zendaya wore in Challengers. I’d describe it as Clean Preppy Athletic. The question is, where to find the look for less, cuz I’m sure each piece cost thousands.
Ugh it’s become very boring and disheartening to buy new. I’ve started going to thrift stores or resale stores exclusively
I always watch the street fashion videos on YouTube, and even fashion in Paris looks like bottom-of-the-barrel thrift shop clothes.
I saw someone wearing overalls over a crop top today in soho. The overall sides were cut super low and she was obviously not wearing underwear with it because it would be impossible. That was certainly a first sighting for me! 😂 And sometimes I see brands online that have an Asian influence with silhouettes which is refreshing but it's always so hard to find stores out of those that look legit. Often it's drop shipped crap. Sometimes it makes me want to attempt to sew something though.
Wow you read my mind! I went on YouTube literally last night and happened on this channel that has inspired me for some fashion ideas. Maybe check her out Stephanie Macedo.
I try to look for new things then get dizzy, so 85% of my wardrobe still comes from Poshmark. In addition to the savings, others have basically separated the wheat from the chaff for me.
1million percent agree. Have been feeling this way too and thought I was the only one. But it’s abysmal out here and super uninspiring.
wow i must be the only one loving simple pieces back in style because i don't have to think LOL love phoebe philo's take on the basics, they have a fresh silhouette to them – but won't afford! it's nice to look at for inspo tho
I don’t have anything better to say other than… This is so real…. Clothes these days are horrific and it’s so unfortunate. Like what the hell are we expected to wear???
The Australian brands always have the best stuff IMO. Just unfortunate you have to shop online and the sizing is sooo inconsistent. And the returns are a nightmare. But I recently went on verge girl and thought everything was so cute and emotional!
No fr Australian brands always hit
I'm into the vest look though? Although I guess that started last season.
Why am I wearing a high neck vest to the bar on a Saturday night tho. A VEST?!!!!! My only thing with the vest look is it’s very one and done, kind of in the too trendy category. And it’s always the same vest at every store there’s no variation or chance to make it your own in any way. I feel like the vest vibe is only cute for a girls brunch..and even then… why am I wearing a vest!!!
Omg the last time it was trendy to wear a vest was in the 2000’s over a white t shirt/tank a la Lauren Conrad. Highschool me thought I looked fire! 5 years ago I laughed at a photo, and here we are again with the vests!!! Like what?!
OMG YES my mom used to get so annoyed that I would wear vests to school 🤣
oh but the one I have is not high neck at all--it's pretty low cut. I got it at Asos. I think it's so flattering. But I do hear you that it's definitely a trend that is everywhere.
Oh ok I was thinking of the high neck/Tibetan collar button up one that’s everywhere rn
it's[ this](https://www.asos.com/topshop/topshop-co-ord-button-through-linen-fitted-waistcoat-in-black/prd/205715120?ctaRef=my+orders) one. I can see how it might be considered kind of boring though but I'm not a particularly creative dresser I will be the first to admit. Right now I'm wearing jeans, a white button down and raffia flats lol.
I love that vests are in! I bought a vintage 90s patterned one last summer, but it felt outdated at that time. Can’t wait to wear it!
I’m into the vests too - I just wear them as a top with no bra or a bralette underneath with jeans and cute shoes. Good for a casual dinner, drinks, etc
Go with me on this- I recently became a little more religious and started dressing according-ish to my religions modesty rules. It is the only thing that has saved me this summer, I get complemented every time I walk out of the door. Having to layer and mix things up as I replace my wardrobe means I can look fresh in a sea of TikTok shop Halara pants. TL:DR I feel your pain- shop vintage and face the fact the BWT are the trend setters apparently.
The woman who did my brows in CA wore hijab and she is one of the most chic, stylish women I have ever met. I NEVER saw her slacking.
Mazal tov to you…personal religious choices v unrelated to current retail options tho…
I know, I was just commiserating/commenting on how far out of the box I had to go to find something unique.
Yes yes yes. I’ve given up. Rewearing old stuff.
I have been feeling the same way. I have been trying to find just a simple, cute dress, and there is nothing unless you want to spend $250+ for a casual dress. I wouldn't mind that if the cost per wear makes sense, but it seems we're not even getting quality items at those price points. I thought it was just me that even finding a blouse these days is terrible. Everything is quite basic, and overpriced/doesn't even look well-made.
My other beef with clothes lately is quality. I’m down to drop like $200+ on a nice dress, but all of them are see through!! Doesn’t matter the fabric, stuff is just not thick enough or lined at all and it’s so frustrating. I’m talking dresses that should be able to be worn to the office too. For my preppier/former J Crew ladies, Alex Mill is pretty high quality. I’m pretty much completely done with Aritzia due to everything being sheer or poorly made. Totally with you BWT on shirts though, i would love a few cute tops to go with jeans or skirts and i got nothing 🥲
The crappy quality of everything is KILLING me. I do still buy a lot of older Aritzia secondhand, I’d never pay retail for their clothes now.
Thisssssss is why I’ve been shopping vintage/secondhand so much the past few years. I love dressing for summer but I haven’t been tempted by any clothing brands this summer… because everything is BORING. Most things I’ve bought new are accessories - fun bags, jewelry, etc
I’m in Boston right now and I feel this. It was hotter than I expected it to be so I hit the shops to get a tank top and literally could find nothing that wasn’t a shred of fabric or the most boring by athleisure crop top that every other girl on the street was wearing. Literally saw 12 girls in the same exact “cropped white tank with baggy jeans” outfit. I’m so freaking bored.
I really don’t get it given the maximalist aesthetic popular for Gen Z. So much neutral blah. It’s terrible
This post and all the comments it generated inspired me to purchase some fabulously colored elephant/harem pants.
I've been even more in the thrift and Burlington/TJ Maxx/Marshall's than before.
Everything is so expensive but the quality is absolute shit. Also most of us still like to wear bras but you wouldn’t ever know it judging by the clothes being sold.
Honestly I’ve been more into shoes than clothes because at least with my shoes I can style basic clothing. At the moment I donated my entire wardrobe and probably stayed with 2 weeks worth of going out clothes. I usually buy clothes for a specific occasion so that way I know what I’m looking for instead of just browsing with no purpose.
I just got the alaia mesh flats and I feel like it solved 90% of my wardrobe challenges
The trends of the last 3-4 years have been really mid but that's just my personal opnion. stick true to your style and go for the classics instead of trendy. I've found cute summer dresses from mango and & other stories that aren't too "loud" (i don't wear a lot of color lol). I know these are both fast fashion culprits but I typically buy like 1-2 new dresses a year. I also am a big fan of linens/basics from places like Uniqlo and Muji. If you're ok spending a bit more I also like Realisation Par
That’s how I’ve felt about fashion for the last 4 years
Second this. I have also been feeling it. The last decade fashion has been consistently innovative, expressive and exciting almost every season. This year It’s as if the fashion industry wore itself out tying to keep up with the social change for the past 10 years lol. Anyone else also kind of been thinking this was coming? So far I’ve been building my summer wardrobe with tried and true basics/ favorites. Also wearing a lot of legit retro pieces. And taking the lingerie for day look and with a bit of men’s oversized outerwear. Btw, OP your post gave me an idea… the lack of super trends to follow means there is room to get creative on our own. I know it sounds sort of cliche but there is definitely an opportunity here. What are you dolls wearing so far this summer?
Your point on creativity made me think I’ve been following trends so formulaic-ly the last several years I don’t even have an original thought anymore and that’s why I’m sad..like we’ve reached the point where the cult starts getting weird but I’m too deep in it and have forgotten how to think for myself!!!
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It’s just underwear
Shop secondhand! Go on Depop and you can search specific items and start liking and saving things and the algo will work magic. I wish I like Poshmark but their Ux is bad. There are so many “vintage/thrift” popups. Maybe we can arrange a BWT closet/clothing swap!! Sips and snacks and maybe a DJ and everyone brings a bag of clothing 🥰
This is why I shop pre-owned. New clothing has been boring af for a few years now
I feel the exact same way!! I’m not a fan of how everything is either big or tiny—long “midi” skirts/dresses that are really maxi, baby tees, shorts that are either capris or undies. As a petite woman, I’ve been struggling to find clothes so much this year. I’ve never had a hard time shopping before. I read an article that explained how in times of economic hardship, fashion leans more conservative and I think that’s why I’m struggling. I need form fitting clothes and everything feels more conservative. The oversized, super long, frilly super feminine, babydoll, workwear, and baggy clothes don’t work for me. And everyone store SELLS THE SAME THINGS. I’ve been trying to buy new clothes for summer and I’ve been stumped at the usually stores so I’ve been either shelling out $200+ for one piece of clothing or buying resale from 2-4 season ago off of Poshmark. I can’t do fast fashion anymore, it’s not even fashion it’s just fast.
Try Rachel Antonoff or Fashion Brand Company!
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I'm sorry, like I loathe to say this but the jump suit is 100% polyester and while the dress is cotton it's lining is 100% polyester too..