Something I’ve always believed is that our sense of fashion speaks before we do. A touch of animal print or a funky hairstyle can incite first impressions before we’ve even said a word, and 2024 was quite the year for making statements through fashion trends!
This year, trends didn’t just live on the catwalk – they spilled onto our streets and social media feeds, and have settled comfortably into our own wardrobes. From kitten heels to grunge makeup to Bayonetta glasses, 2024 was a melting pot of style throwbacks, new iterations, and a sprinkle of playfulness.
I think fashion is all about curating an authentic version of yourself – and honestly, this year proved that there’s no single way to truly define personal style. So, grab your favourite coffee, hit shuffle on your playlist, and take a walk down the sartorial memory lane of 2024 with me. Let’s talk trends, shall we?
Clothing
Leopard Print
Leopard print is back, babes, and it’s clawed its way into 2024 as one of the year’s feistiest trends. I’m absolutely living for this resurgence – it’s about time we gave this pattern the love it used to get back in the day! The best way I’ve heard leopard print described is as a chaotic neutral. Yes, neutral. Some people call it tacky but styled right, it can find its way into so many daily outfits!
I must say though, I still think the icons of the ‘90s and early 2000s did leopard print best when it was at its peak. Kate Moss and Goldie Hawn, I’m looking at you two! At the same time, what I love about it now is how it’s snuck in everywhere. It’s no longer just about the big coats and slinky dresses. I’ve spotted (pun intended) leopard tights, sneakers, hats, eyewear, you name it! The “mob-wife aesthetic” from TikTok last year probably gave this trend an extra push – and I’m not complaining.
The best thing about this print is how you can make it your own. Feeling bold? Throw on a leopard-print coat and own the streets like a runway. I’d pair it with deep greens or burgundy for an “earthy” look. Want something more low-key? A leopard bag or pair of boots is just enough to spice up an everyday outfit.
And for those who love to layer like me, this print makes for a fab base – why not go wild and mix it with stripes or florals? I love me a clash of patterns, argue with the wall! However you wear it, leopard print always hits, and it’s not going extinct anytime soon.
Tenniscore
Now this is a term I’d never heard of before 2024. Tenniscore might just be one of the most unexpected trends of this year. The release of the movie Challengers definitely had a hand in putting Tenniscore on the map! Just look at Zendaya’s outfits on the press tour – it was a masterclass in nailing the country-club-meets-athleisure aesthetic.
Pleated skirts, skorts, and polos are staples of this trend, and they remind me so much of the downtown girls of 2014 Tumblr! If you know, you know. And let’s have a moment for Miu Miu’s micro miniskirt that went viral in recent years – they deserve a standing ovation for their role in the pleated skirt obsession as well!
I especially love the preppy flair that accompanied tenniscore looks this year. Pieces like quarter-zip sweatshirts and cable-knit sweaters add a touch of “old money” sophistication that serves “private school students grabbing brunch after a match.” Oddly specific, I know. With accessories like headbands and white crew socks, these outfits always look fresh and clean. But while I love the classic tennis whites, I find that richer, deeper tones suit me better!
If I may offer some style inspo, why not pair a pleated skirt with a fitted polo and white trainers? If it’s a little chilly out, throw on an oversized cardigan and you’re good to go! Whether you’re hitting the court or the streets, tenniscore will always have you giving chic and sporty.
Bubble Skirts
Bubble skirts. Be honest, you didn’t see these coming back either, did you? Love them or hate them, they’ve returned with a bang in 2024. Admittedly, they’re not everyone’s cup of tea – millennials might shudder remembering some cringeworthy prom looks from the 2000s – but styled right, bubble skirts can be pretty cute! I’ve never been much of a skirt person, but if I were to give these a shot, I’d go for an American High Street vibe, with a mini plaid bubble skirt adorned with a dainty waist chain. This creates a more structured silhouette, which I prefer!
But of course, their voluminous shape is a statement in its own right. While mini bubble skirts are my personal favourite (but a little risky), whether you’re trying to channel Coquette or Y2K, there’s a bubble skirt for you. It’s a shape that can be as bold or as subtle as you want it to be, and that flexibility is part of its charm.
But bubble skirts aren’t new – they’re a great example of fashion’s cyclical nature. They can be traced back to the 1950s with Christian Dior, gaining traction again in the 1980s when seen on Princess Diana. By the 2000s, they were an integral part of pop culture, rocked by the likes of Paris Hilton. Each iteration brought its own twist, proving that the bubble skirt’s playful, flirty spirit can adapt to any era.
To style a bubble skirt today, balance is key. Let the skirt take centre stage by pairing it with a fitted top or a sleek racer tank. Footwear can elevate your look as well, perhaps some ankle boots for a little flair? And if you’re not afraid of some glamour, try experimenting with textures like satin or tulle. Who knows? You might just fall in love with the puff!
Sheer Fabrics
Now, if you thought the mini bubble skirt was risky, sheer fabrics take things up a notch! They’ve firmly staked their claim through lightweight fabrics such as chiffon, organza, and lace. These styles aren’t just about showing skin – they’re about layering and movement. From dresses to floaty tops, sheer clothing has graced runways, red carpets, and the streets more than ever in 2024 – particularly in sorbet shades!
Yes, this year, it was the dreamy pastels that shone, softening the daring nature of translucency. These youthful hues are ideal for spring and summer looks! Designers like Prada and Chloé have explored this aesthetic in the past year, with ethereal, artistic designs.
What I like about this trend is how it’s tied to female empowerment, with women reclaiming the narrative and choosing to dress for themselves. I don’t see sheer clothing as provocative; I see it as art and self-expression. I love it when fashion sparks conversations and challenges society’s notion of what is deemed acceptable!
If you wanna step out of your comfort zone and explore sheer clothing, how about playing with proportions? A sheer blouse with structured outerwear and delicate jewellery can enhance an outfit without overpowering its lightness. You can also pair it with neutral separates or a colourful slip for a look that’s playful and contemporary! But most importantly, wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident – because that’s the true essence of this trend.
Footwear
Kitten Heels
Breathe – you can kiss goodbye to the peril of towering stilettos! Once considered training heels, kitten heels have grown to become a modern wardrobe essential. I’ll admit, these itty-bitty heels made me pause at first, but I’ve since been converted. A good pair – especially in boot form – adds a little oomph, I can’t deny. When your outfit feels like it’s missing something, a kitten heel could be that perfect finishing touch!
In a world where aches and groans from high heels used to be almost a rite of passage, the kitten heel typically hovers at a height of one to two inches. From brunch dates to the nightclub, they give just enough lift and click – and it’s a breeze to wear ‘em all day!
From their mid-1900s debut as a compromise between flats and stilettos to their late ’90s and Y2K renaissance, it’s the variety of kitten heels that keep them relevant – with styles like pointed-toe designs, slingbacks, and suede ankle boots. I gotta say, I’m a sucker for the drama of a knee-high boot with a li’l kitten heel.
If you have a more feminine style or a petite frame, these go great with pleated midi skirts and – hear me out – the socks-and-heels combo. For something slightly different, go casual-cool with wide-leg jeans and an airy button-down, or keep it classy with a little black dress or tailored tweed. I can finally say I appreciate what kitten heels have to offer!
Penny Loafers
It’s no accident that penny loafers experienced a well-deserved renaissance in 2024. Their adaptability is one of their most celebrated qualities, catering to the growing preference for versatile footwear in a day and age when hybrid lifestyles are the norm.
First introduced by G.H. Bass in 1936 and inspired by Norwegian moccasins, this design quickly became popular. Fun fact – the name “penny loafer” emerged in the 1960s when schoolchildren tucked pennies into the shoe’s vamp slot. How cute is that?
As a relative newcomer to the world of loafers, I’ve discovered that chunky penny loafers are the ones I particularly fancy. They work well with so many pieces – from slim-fitted clothing to flowy skirts to everyday low-rise jeans. Meanwhile, classic leather and suede designs are as popular as ever, with deep burgundy and brown hues leading the way this season.
Penny loafers are also a thoughtful investment, thanks to their longevity. More and more consumers are starting to value quality over quantity, which is a much-needed shift towards sustainable fashion. It’s important to remain conscious with evolving trends!
Nails
Tortoise Shell
Autumn and winter brought cosy jumpers, warm drinks, and tortoise shell nails. Inspired by the patterns found on – surprise, surprise – a tortoise shell, this nail art style combines warm caramel tones, deep browns, and hints of black.
A major factor behind the rise of tortoise shell nails is the influence of celebrities like Hailey Bieber. Her ability to turn even the simplest looks into full-on trends never fails to blow my mind. It’s not just her star power that has fueled this craze, though – the appeal of tortoise shell nails themselves makes them a hit. They complement the deeper, richer palettes of fall wardrobes beautifully!
What I find so appealing about tortoise shell nails are the organic, slightly uneven patterns that make each manicure unique. The shiny finish typically associated with this design looks so polished and… edible. I can’t explain it. Nothing hits like a nice glossy set for me!
If you wanna pamper yourself but aren’t ready to splurge at a nail salon, tortoise shell nails are actually surprisingly easy to achieve at home. The process involves layering a caramel-coloured base with darker brown and black spots, followed by a clear topcoat for added shine. For a little extra pizzazz, you can incorporate lighter splotches or some metallic details if you have a steady hand. Feel free to go crazy with it, that’s what a DIY manicure is all about!
If you prefer something subtle, tortoise shell accent nails against solid colours carry an understated elegance. Tortoise shell French tips are another variation I’ve seen quite a bit of – what a chic twist on a classic manicure!
Cat Eye
Cat eye nails embody the winter season to me. Achieved with magnetic gel polish, these magical creations have a metallic line that shifts across nails like the glint in a cat’s eye. As you move your hands, the light dances across the line with a hypnotic quality. No wonder this trend caught heat in Korean and Japanese nail salons! They’ve since expanded, of course.
For the busy bees who need their manicures to last, cat eye nails are known for their durability, and stay vibrant for weeks! And if you’re torn between styles, here’s another option that stems from cat eye nails! Glass nails, with their sheer jelly polish and shiny top coat, offer a softer but equally reflective finish. I can’t decide which one I love more – shimmery and metallic, or sleek and glossy? Hmm… maybe they can take turns!
Accessories
Bayonetta Glasses
Bayonetta glasses (named after the iconic video game character) are an item that has continued to dominate this year, and I completely understand why. These narrow frames have a retro charm, and there’s something so universally flattering about their design!
Their rise can be traced to several cultural moments, such as the Miu Miu Fall 2023 runway show. This collection put a twist on vintage aesthetics, styling models with glasses that added an edge to their looks. Supermodel Bella Hadid has been spotted pairing these frames with her ensembles too! And if you frequent fashiontok, you’ve probably seen Gabbriette rocking Bayonetta glasses as well. Need I give any more proof of their it-girl status?
These frames fit into some of the major fashion movements today. Take the “office siren” aesthetic that blends corporate chic with a sultry edge, for example. Think tailored suits, pencil skirts, and a pair of Bayonetta glasses! They align with the huge ongoing Y2K revival, too.
What’s signature about Bayonetta glasses is their slim, minimalist, yet undeniably striking design. It’s worth thinking about your face shape to find the most flattering pair! Heart-shaped faces might prefer rounder frames, while rectangular designs often complement square or diamond-shaped faces.
In a generation where many of us are increasingly drawn to aesthetics that break from convention, Bayonetta glasses are the accessory that can pull it all together with a bit of glam.
Chunky Jewellery
Don’t even get me started on one of the pillars of maximalism – chunky jewellery! I’ve always been a firm believer that jewellery should be an announcement, not a footnote. Whether it’s oversized pendants or thick, audacious chains, chunky pieces have my heart. I’d imagine there’s a sense of nostalgia tied to the rising popularity of chunky jewellery amongst millennials, harking back to when bigger was, in fact, better.
Shoutout to the Bottega Veneta Small Drop Earrings – the yellow gold ones, in particular! I’ve been seeing so many people snatch them up or find dupes, and understandably so. They’re loud enough to catch your eye but fit for virtually any occasion.
My favourite way of incorporating chunky jewellery into my outfits has got to be sculptural earrings with unique shapes and dramatic designs. And if you wanna rock the most stylish fidget toys yet, thick chains or necklaces with an oversized charm keep your hands busy while looking great.
When it comes to stacking bracelets and bangles, I know my fellow South Asians love the drama! There are so many textures, colours, and finishes to play with – from gleaming metals to resin, beads, and even fabric. It’s such a fun way to personalise! And can I just say I’m so glad that mixing silver and gold is no longer a crime? With enough balance, I think it’s quite tasteful.
While I’m all for maximalism from head to toe, I get that it’s not for everyone. If you prefer balancing your statement accessories, solid colours are a canvas that allows your jewellery, accessories, and other fit details to pop. That being said, let me reiterate that it’s never too much when it comes to dressing up – life’s too short not to go big!
Makeup
Grunge-Inspired Eyes
If you thought soft glam makeup was taking over (I sure did), think again – grunge-inspired eyes returned with a vengeance this year! This eye look has stormed runways and swamped the FYPs of many makeup lovers, including mine. And it’s only fair that YouTuber Tarayummy gets some credit for popularising edgier looks after she (and her makeup) went viral this year.
Drawing from the rebellious edge of the ’90s and early 2000s, grunge eye makeup is all about bold and dishevelled energy. Allow me to have a sigh of relief here – for this is such a refreshing departure from the “clean girl” aesthetic.
The beauty of grunge eyes is in their deliberate imperfection. They typically involve applying a heavy swipe using kohl – also known as kajal – or gel liner with dark, smoky eyeshadow in shades like charcoal, plum, and deep brown. And voilà! You’ve got a gaze that’s full of attitude. I like using my fingers to smudge out the liner under my lower waterline – the messier, the better!
I know this look is usually paired with a nude lip to let the eyes do the talking, but let me convince you to team this with a black lip liner and a deep red gloss – ‘cause more is more if you want it to be! When you need a confidence boost, grunge makeup will always do you right.
Terracotta Blush
I was scrolling through TikTok the other day when I stumbled across Huda herself showcasing the new Huda Beauty “blonzers” and I was sold before the video even ended. The terracotta blush trend has taken 2024 by storm! It’s a sweet, sweet marriage of warmth and dimension, blending the rosy flush of blush with the sculpting prowess of a bronzer. Terracotta tones are for anyone after a sun-kissed glow!
Of course, Hailey Bieber’s influence continues to reign supreme – her Rhode Pocket Blush in “Toasted Teddy” was a terracotta-like shade that worked like magic across a spectrum of skin tones. And speaking of blush, the whole “blush blindness” thing that became a buzzword this year? Yeah, I’m a proud victim. If my blush can’t be seen from a mile away, it’s not enough!
Before I leave you to play dress-up, let me remind you in case it ever left your mind. Fashion is supposed to be fun, not – trigger warning – a math equation. Sure, there are guides about dressing for your body type, complexion, and choosing the “right” accessories – but honestly, I think rules like that are made to be broken when you feel like it. Controversial? Maybe. But my philosophy is that everything looks good as long as you love it and know how to style it.
Take me, for example, I’m warm-toned, which means gold jewellery is supposed to be my best friend. But I adore silver and wear it almost exclusively because, well, I like it. Why stick to what works on paper when you can wear something that makes you happy in real life?
At the end of the day, the best accessory is confidence, and no one can dictate that for you – not a colour wheel, not a chart, and certainly not a trend forecast. So take up space! Wear what you love, exactly how you want. That’s the trend that should never go out of style.
What were some of your favourite fashion trends this year? Let us know via our DMs on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok!
Visuals Courtesy of Jaded London, Footwear News, WONDER NOAH, AnotherChill, Ciao Kasia, and Donsida via Pinterest.
