No Pants, Tomato Girl, and Blokette: The 2023 Style Review

As we welcome the new year, the world of fashion continues to evolve, presenting us with an exciting array of style trends that reflect the diverse tastes and preferences of the modern individual. In 2023, we witnessed a fusion of nostalgia, innovation, and individualism, resulting in an eclectic mix of styles that cater to a wide range of fashion enthusiasts. Let's explore the top style trends that are set to dominate wardrobes in 2023.

The first style of 2023 is “coquette.” Channeling a playful aesthetic, the coquette style trend brings back elements of femininity and whimsy. Soft silhouettes, pastel hues, and delicate fabrics dominate this trend, allowing individuals to express their romantic and charming sides. Ruffled dresses, lace details, and bows are key elements that define the coquette style, creating an effortlessly chic and sweet look.

Similar to coquette, we have her modern street-style sister: “blokette.” This trend embraces the same femininity found in the bows and pastels but mixes it with modern, street-style pieces. In another article I wrote, I mentioned that singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams plays around with this style frequently, with her signature bows at the forefront of her wardrobe.

This is one of my favorite trends, especially as it peaked this summer, although it can definitely be hard to pull off. A lot of popular outfits exhibiting the blokette image include styling a long flowy dress with a sports jersey, athletic shoes, and of course, a bow in your hair. Though it undoubtedly has an awesome aesthetic, due to its difficulty and niche taste, it was one of the smaller trends of 2023.

Still playing with a romantic charm, we move out of the city and to the ocean, with the beloved “coastal granddaughter” style. Inspired by the relaxed and timeless charm of coastal living, the coastal granddaughter trend brings a breath of fresh air to fashion. Another summer hit, coastal granddaughter uses nautical stripes, breezy fabrics, and ocean-inspired hues to offer a laid-back yet polished look. Whether you're strolling along the beach or attending a casual brunch, coastal granddaughter brings a touch of seaside elegance to your wardrobe.

With that being said, though, elegance can take many forms – one of which is the iconic, minimalist “French girl” style. This trend remains a fan favorite, capturing the essence of Parisian chic while also giving your outfit effortless and understated flair. Breton stripes, classic silhouettes, and a mix of high and low fashion define this trend. Embracing the "je ne sais quoi" attitude, French girl style exudes confidence and sophistication, proving that timeless elegance never goes out of fashion.

If we move down to the coast of Europe, we’ll have the Italian-inspired “tomato girl.” Featuring warm reds and oranges, this trend is all about relaxing in the summer sun. Whether wearing flowy sundresses or ruffled and laced tank tops, these outfits always feature a pop of red. Due to the warm tones and Italian inspiration, all I can think about when I see this trend is “Call Me By Your Name.”

If Tomato Girl got lost in her garden, we would find more inspiration for “cottage core.” Cottage core fashion takes inspiration from countryside aesthetics featuring oversized sweaters, vintage florals, and earthy tones. These elements all come together to curate a cozy and nostalgic vibe. This trend encourages a mix of textures and patterns, allowing individuals to create a personalized, laid-back look that exudes warmth and comfort.

That being said, nothing says comfort like a Juicy Couture tracksuit. That’s right, next up is the return of Y2K style. Nostalgia takes center stage with the Y2K trend, embracing the bold and eclectic styles of the early 2000s. Think of futuristic metallic accents, bedazzled accessories, and experimental silhouettes. Y2K fashion is a playful nod to the past, celebrating an era of technology, pop culture, and unapologetic self-expression. Personally, I think we should leave this one in the past, but if you can pull it off, more power to you.

Fast-forward to the current day, fashion lovers are still making bold choices. Exhibit A: the “No Pants Party.” Making a bold statement in 2023, the “No Pants” trend challenges traditional fashion norms by emphasizing comfort and freedom. Oversized shirts, blazers worn as dresses, and creative layering techniques redefine the boundaries of conventional attire.

Recently exhibited by Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber, this fashion choice encourages individuals to express themselves confidently and embrace a more relaxed and carefree approach to fashion.

As we celebrate the near end of 2023, the fashion trends that have emerged showcase a diverse range of influences and inspirations. From the romantic charm of coquette to the nostalgic vibes of Y2K, fashion enthusiasts have a plethora of options to choose from when deciding how they want to express their unique personalities through their outfits. Embrace the trends that resonate with you, mix and match styles, and most importantly, have fun experimenting with your wardrobe in the ever-evolving world of fashion. Cheers to a new year of sartorial exploration and self-expression!

Until next Monday,

Leo

Your MagazineDecember 11, 2023