Fashion Trends That Are Making a Comeback in 2023

If there’s one thing that’s true in the fashion industry, it’s that every trend comes back around again. Fashion designers always come up w...

If there’s one thing that’s true in the fashion industry, it’s that every trend comes back around again. Fashion designers always come up with unique things, but they like to sprinkle in some inspiration from the past for some extra flavor.

There are a lot of older trends that you will see coming back in 2023. Some of them will be a continuation from last year, and some will surprise you. Undoubtedly, these styles will be front and center in the coming months. Here are some fashion trends that are making a comeback in 2023.

I’m a Barbie Girl

You’ve probably heard of the new live-action movie coming out. Well, the movie is bringing back the Barbie aesthetic with a bang. You can expect to see pink hot pants, sheer blouses, and puffy sleeves. Also, you can go with slip dresses with lace trim, tube tops, and cargo pants. It’s back to the 90s when the song Barbie Girl was a hit and colors were bright.

Let’s talk about the colors. Barbie was big in the 80s and 90s when bright, neon colors were everywhere. You will see more out on the town, and they will be hard to miss. There will be bright and bold outfits and pops of neon, such as on shoes, hats, and bags. After a few years of being locked at home with nowhere to go, people are ready to show off and take a chance. Individualism will be the driving force, as will a desire to be happy and carefree.

Shoulder Pads 

The 80s called, and they wanted their shoulder pads back. Yes, the look that defined the modern working woman and the lady looking to dance out on the town is back. You will see shoulder pads on blouses and blazers and even tops. Shoulder pads have been gone for a while, but they are coming back in a big way.

Shoulder pads tend to come back in style when there are big movements in women’s rights and feminism. In the 80s, they symbolized that a woman's place wasn’t just in the home anymore. Women were taking hold of their independence and showing it off. The exaggerated look of shoulder pads evokes a sense of control of your body and your choices.

Bubble Hems

The 80’s also introduced us to the bubble hem skirt. These skirts feature a hem that is curved underneath at the bottom. This created a bubble look. While this style had some popularity in the 50s, it didn’t hit its stride until the 80s, Princess Diana was known to sport this look, as were many celebrities and debutantes.

The bubble hem has been all but gone for the past few decades, but in 2023 expect to be back in full force. However, there will be some interesting styles and looks that didn’t exist before. For example, expect to see tiny tops and big bubble skirts as designers play with proportions.

Power Suits and Oversized Blazers

The power suit and shoulder pads made a statement for women’s liberation 40 years ago. While they transitioned to softer styles for the office, the power suit is coming back in a big way. They will have a masculine style but are still cut for women. With so many people talking about gender and gender identity, there is a real movement toward this androgynous style.

Along with the power suit, blazers are back this year. However, not just any blazer, but oversized blazers that will still have an androgynous look but a touch more feminine. These blazers can be worn over anything. You can wear it in the office, but also over some cute blue jean skirts or even over mini-dresses. 

Cargo Pants

We’re always looking for ways to make our fashion more functional. What embodies that more than the cargo pant? In the late 90s and into the 2010s, you couldn't go anywhere without being in a sea of pockets. At casual business workplaces, on the street, and even in the club. They are worn mainly by men, but women love the usefulness of the pockets and would often wear them in casual situations.

There was a backlash to cargo pants; up until recently, they were a punch line. However, some new styles and trends are bringing them back. For example, silks and satin cargo pants. They provide a sleeker option to the bulk of traditional cargoes. However, if you still favor the big and bulky style, you’ll still be able to get them. 

Slouch Boots

Style icon Princess Diana made several trends fashionable, not the least of which was the slouch boot. A slouched boot looks like it is melting away from the opening. However, they are versatile, as you can pair them with anything, whether it’s comfy and laid back or something more formal.

Going with small kitten heels is likely what you’ll see this winter and next fall. They are flexible and fun and more comfortable than a full heel. However, if you want to go with a heel, it should be used in dressier situations or while you’re out at the club.

What’s fun about fashion trends returning is that you might have a piece or two left in your closet from the old days. Or, perhaps your mother or aunt does. You can mix and match or go full 90’s to give the full effect. The ability to be creative and fun is what makes fashion so exciting. Some things never go out of style, whether on the runway or out on the streets. This year, try out these fashion trends that are coming back in 2023.