I always keep an eye out for new trends in fashion. Compared to the styles that were available since the time I’ve been running Fashion & Style Police, what is termed “fashionable” has evolved so much. Despite the remarkable changes in fashion, I couldn’t help but notice how old trends and styles kept coming back.
History does have a way of repeating itself and fashion was not left out in this. But why? Aren’t we in the modern age? Why do old trends have to creep into the fashion scene and on the runaways again and again? Don’t get me wrong! I do love the baby doll dress from the 60s which inspired the empire waists and the denim jackets, crop tops and animal prints from the 80s. Even the most loved skinny jeans are an evidence of the presence of old trends in today’s fashion. What I want to know is why fashion keeps “borrowing” from the past and doesn’t seem to move forward.
So with some research, observation and plenty of deep thinking, I’ve been able to get some answers. I must warn you that what you will read will make you love, appreciate and respect fashion a little more. Here are some reasons why fashion is so obsessed with old trends:
Reason #1: Fashion designers look to the past as source of inspiration.
How does a majority of the fashion styles come to life if not for the fashion designers? This was a big revelation to me. Fashion designers draw inspiration from various sources: life, nature or events. But if you want to create something new, you need to go back in time to see what others have done and find ways you can “borrow” or improve on their designs. Pretty smart, don’t you think?
Reason #2: Some old trends can easily fit the present times and still look good.
The beauty about fashion is that there are endless possibilities to how you can combine outfits together to give you a new look. Have you put on a denim jacket and love the look on you? No matter how old their origins, some of those pieces are timeless. They look so good that you feel that it’s part of present time.
I love mixing and matching various pieces and I have discovered several ways old pieces work. There’s this versatility behind each piece. They work for pretty much anyone and any era.
Reason #3: To show appreciation for the originality of the past.
What better way to show tribute to the time than by wearing the clothes that reflect that period?
The fashion trends of the past find their way to the future when people see themselves identify with the culture, attitude or class of the past. For example, wearing leather jackets to represent the cool but tough biker look or the black dress adorned with long white pearl beads to allude to the classiness of the 1960s. The old trends were like a voice to give expression to the attitude, culture and class we still feel today. Impressive, isn’t it?

What are your thoughts on this? Do you agree with fashion being obsessed with old trends? Sound off in the comment section below.