Seunfunmi Joshua
This year, fashion has seen a blend of classic trends making a comeback and new styles that exude sophistication and fun. From the Y2K revival to the timeless elegance of Old Money fashion, and from the cozy feel of wide-leg jeans to the flirtatious Coquette style, 2024’s fashion scene offers something for everyone.
In this piece, we explore the top seven fashion trends of 2024.
- Y2K Fashion
The Y2K (Year 2000) fashion trend has made a strong reappearance globally, and Nigeria is no exception. This trend has captivated everyone—teenagers, young adults, and even celebrities. Y2K fashion first emerged amid the euphoria of the new millennium in the late 1990s and early 2000s, influenced by artists like Britney Spears, Destiny’s Child, and Missy Elliott, as well as TV shows like “Sex and the City” and “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.”
In Nigeria, the late 1990s and early 2000s were marked by cultural developments like the rise of Nollywood, the emergence of Nigerian hip-hop, and the growing influence of Western media. The return of Y2K fashion in Nigeria is driven by a global nostalgia for the early 2000s, particularly among Gen Z, who are drawn to an era they were born into but didn’t fully experience. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have played a significant role in reviving and popularizing Y2K aesthetics. Key elements include crop tops, low-rise jeans, Juicy Couture-inspired tracksuits, oversized clothing, mini skirts, belly chains, and big sunglasses. This trend is undoubtedly one of my favorites of 2024.
- Old Money Fashion
The ‘Old Money’ fashion trend is an aesthetically pleasing comeback that exudes timeless beauty and sophistication. Characterized by classic pieces with a refined touch, this trend embraces a high-society look with luxury fabrics like wool, cashmere, and silk. These are paired with pristine white shirts, tailored blazers, and fitted pants. Accessories like pearl necklaces, leather loafers, and high-quality watches add an understated sophistication. The goal is to appear effortlessly polished, as if your wardrobe were inherited from a previous era when craftsmanship and elegance were valued over fleeting trends.
Inspired by classic films, Ivy League style, and the wardrobes of aristocratic families, this trend channels the grace and simplicity of icons like Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and Jackie Kennedy. The “Old Money” fashion trend is more than just a look; it’s an attitude that values quality over quantity and timeless elegance over temporary fads.
- Wearing Sneakers with Suits
I don’t know who needs to hear this, but it’s 2024—I thought we were done with the trend of wearing sneakers with suits. Newsflash: sneakers are for casual wear, not for dressing up. The combination of suits and sneakers became popular as a way to blend formal and informal styles, showing that one could be both fashionable and comfortable. This trend blurred the line between business and leisure, with everyone from corporate CEOs to fashion-forward grooms embracing it.
While a good sneaker game is appreciated, when it comes to dressing up, let’s keep it classy and sophisticated. Your suit deserves better than a pair of kicks. Instead of pairing it with Nikes or Adidas, I recommend something more refined like loafers or brogues.
- Jorts (Jeans Shorts)
I have to admit, I have a love/hate relationship with jorts (jean shorts). There’s no denying that jorts look better on women than on men. Women’s jorts are incredibly versatile, easily transitioning from a casual day out to a stylish evening outfit. Whether paired with a loose shirt, a cute crop top, or an oversized tee, women seem to have a natural talent for making jorts look fashionable.
For men, however, it’s a different story. Jorts for men can be challenging to pull off. The fit is often the issue—too big, and they look sloppy; too tight, and they appear uncomfortable or overly trendy. Women seem to have a better understanding of how to style jorts in a way that looks put-together, often accessorizing with belts, statement jewelry, or sandals to elevate the look. Men, on the other hand, often wear jorts with just a basic t-shirt and sneakers, which can make the look feel lazy or dated. Ultimately, it all boils down to styling.
- The Coquette Fashion Trend
The “Coquette” fashion trend allows you to express your softer side while remaining confident and stylish. This modern take on a classic aesthetic emphasizes feminine charm, playful flirtation, and vintage-inspired elegance. Personally, I’ve embraced this trend and have been delighted with the results. Defined by a soft, pastel color palette—think blush pink, baby blue, lavender, and mint green—the Coquette trend features lace, ruffles, delicate fabrics, bows, ribbons, feminine accessories, and classic footwear like Mary Janes, ballet flats, and kitten heels. This trend is perfect for those looking to add a touch of whimsy, seduction, and charm to their wardrobe.
- Boot-Cut Jeans or Wide-Leg Pants
I’m glad that we’ve finally embraced the shift away from skinny jeans toward the fashionable comfort of wide-leg pants and boot-cut jeans. Wide-leg trousers, with their relaxed, flowing designs, provide comfort while adding a sophisticated, casual touch to any outfit. These trousers are versatile and can be paired with a fitted top, an oversized sweater, or even a baggy t-shirt.
If you still have skinny jeans in your collection, it’s time to let them go—their moment has passed.
7. Long Denim Skirts
Long denim skirts are making a strong comeback, combining vintage vibes with modern aesthetics. They were extremely fashionable in the 1990s and early 2000s and are now being reimagined in various designs, making them versatile additions to modern wardrobes. These skirts come in various shapes, including A-line, straight, and flared. Some designs feature high slits, asymmetrical hems, and frayed edges. They’re typically worn with tucked-in tops, oversized sweaters, or crop tops. Denim is versatile and can be dressed up with heels or down with sneakers or boots. I have mixed feelings about this trend, but ultimately, it’s all about personal preference.
Wrapping Up,
Whether you’re into nostalgic revivals, sophisticated elegance, or amusing appeal, this year’s fashion scene offers something for you. Remember that fashion is all about self-expression and having fun, so don’t be afraid to try new things and make these trends your own.
