The year may be 2018, but a glance at current fashion almost suggests otherwise. Love ’em or hate ’em, old trends are new again. Though we usually advocate for donating what you no longer use, it’s time to raid those bags of old clothes you’ve been hiding in your attic. Fortunately for those of us who would rather keep our high school fashion faux pas in the past, there are plenty of new ways to style these old trends. On the other hand, if you’re loving this blast from the past, get excited. We’ve picked out the cutest pieces from brands that are eco-friendly and socially responsible; sustainability is the trendiest way to take it back to the ’80s and ’90s.
Stirrup Pants (and Leggings!)
These pants were first introduced in the 1920s as a crucial addition to horse-riding attire and were later embraced by Olympic skiers. It was enough of a shock when the Jane Fonda-inspired fitness craze of the ’80s brought them back in a major way. Though they were thrown into a corner and long forgotten, stirrup pants are officially making their comeback. From the likes of fashion blogger Pernille Teisbaek to the runway at Balenciaga, we’ve seen the style steadily pick up speed since late 2016. The modern version of stirrups are edgy and chic; this style is one you’ll be itching to have in your wardrobe. Wondering how to style the trend you probably rocked in preschool? Try these full-length Show Off leggings from Alo ($98). The stirrup strap is pure ’80s fun, but the mesh brings it up to date. For something a little more work-appropriate, try & Other Stories’ trouser-style stirrups ($85). (Pro tip: This time the strap goes over your heels.)
Giant Logo Tees
We’re taking it back to the halcyon days of the ’90s when you could wear obnoxiously branded gear without being labeled a sell-out. From Calvin Klein to Tommy Hilfiger, giant logos were everywhere—and, somehow, people hadn’t gotten sick of them yet. They went into hiding for a while, but the ragged tops we grew up wearing are now considered the perfect balance of vintage and chic for this year’s look.
Take it back a couple decades by grabbing a vintage adidas shirt off eBay. Or make it a little more au courant with Outdoor Voices’ neon take on the trend ($35). From the gym to girls’ night out, you truly can’t go wrong. We’re excited to see how more major brands decide to play around with their logos. Big and bold, baby.Vintage Denim
Ready for a chance to pull out those mom jeans and escape your routine pair of painted-on skinnies? This vintage wave has its perks. Crafted in every possible cut, rise, and fit, these retro-looking jeans are flattering on every body type. That’s right, we’re welcoming back no-stretch, 100-percent-cotton denim. What’s more timeless than the tried and true Original Levi 501s? Shorts, jeans, overalls, jackets…it’s open season. From wardrobes boasting boho chic styling to those that are perfectly prim, there’s an option for every gal. A super eco-friendly option is Everlane’s modern boyfriend jean ($68), which is made of Japanese denim at a factory in Bien Hoa, Vietnam. Everlane partners with ethical factories around the world, and you can read more about the factory where these jeans were made on Everlane’s website. We love it in the light blue wash paired with a crisp blazer, like this one ($175) from Grana, a socially responsible favorite.
Wide-Leg Trousers
They’ve been saying skinnies are dead for years, but we haven’t seen the evidence. That said, wide legs are managing to hang on for yet another year, and we love the way we can play with new silhouettes in 2018: cropped, high-waisted, or even paper bag-esque. Whether you’re tucked in an office or meandering the farmers market, pair Reformation’s Saylor pant ($178) with a tucked-in breezy blouse for a summer outfit that’s sure to turn heads.
Embroidered Everything
Most commonly worn as formal wear during the ’60s and ’70s, embroidery has since been left for our grandmothers’ closets. Well, until this year. Even Louis Vuitton spruced up their silk coats with meticulous needlework. What’s not to love? That level of attention to detail has us wanting to reach for our wallets. Flower power goes comfy with Amour Vert’s Marie sweatshirt ($88) that’s perfect for gloomy days. When the occasion to be formal arises, embroidered dresses like this open-back maxi from British eco-fave Needle & Thread ($293) have us (im)patiently waiting for summer to roll around.
Hoop Earrings
Here’s a trend we can all get behind. Although hoop earrings never fully went out of style, 2018 is promising their return to center stage. Popular throughout the decades, this design is one of the oldest pieces of jewelry dating back to even the earliest civilizations. We can assure you that no matter what your style is, there’s a hoop made just for you. For a sophisticated twist, pick up the triple hoop earrings from ethical fashion pioneer Soko ($60). If you’re more into silver, the Legacy hoops by ABLE ($64) were made by hand in Nashville. We’re loving them paired with a low bun and a bold lip.
