Every year brings powerful movements that define the world of fashion. This year seemed like it was a mix of old and new themes. The fashion world said Farewell to Karl, the CAMP’s Met Gala Theme brought us Billy Porter dressed as a “Sun God” delivered (Brought in) by six yummy hot men, and J-LO walked the Versace runway in Milan Fashion Week serving a new version of her iconic “Jungle” dress… still looking sickening!
Here are five fashion trends that defined 2019 (Based on Lyst’s Year in Fashion report):
Inclusivity: 2019 saw a number of vocal callouts against the industry’s lack of diversity and representation.
Shoppers searched for fashion reflecting the needs and tastes of diverse communities; searches for adaptive and modest fashion rose 80% and 90% respectively. There was a 52% increase in searches for the terms ‘genderless’ and ‘gender neutral’ with fashion. “Woke” consumers looked for designers and retailers that aligned with their values and in response, some of the world’s most powerful brands launched diversity campaigns and programs to promote inclusivity, some hiring new teams to help them improve at board level.
Psychedelic: From tie-dye to neon green, psychedelic motifs and rave colors were popular this summer. From Proenza Schouler’s knitwear to Ralph Lauren’s tie-dye polo t-shirt, customers embraced psychedelia. Searches for neon green pieces went up 69% over the summer.
Survivalist: In a politically turbulent year, customers looked to fashion for survival. Cargo pants and utility vests saw a surge in searches in the fall and demand for belt bags increased 33% over the last six months. Stomping boots sales increased 73% in September.
90s Resurgence: From cropped tops to square toed heels and slip dresses, Lyst saw a number of 90s trends gain momentum this year. Fendi’s Baguette bag saw a 164% rise in searches year on year, and celebrities dug out archive pieces from designers like Jean Paul Gaultier, Thierry Mugler, and Versace.
“Streetwear” Everywhere: As dress codes continue to relax and the definitions of luxury, streetwear and sportswear evolve, the phenomenon previously known as ‘streetwear’ powered the year’s biggest trends. This year, customers spent on average $192 on a new pair of sneakers, a 39% increase year on year. The average spend on a T-shirt also increased 16% to $67. Off-White was the most searched for brand of the year.
There you have it my fashionista friends, stay tuned for predictions on 2020 trends coming soon!
Go to Lyst.com/year-in-fashion-2019/ to see the full ‘global fashion search platform Lyst.’
