In the world of fashion, the term “dated” is thrown around pretty haphazardly and doesn’t hold quite the same impact as it does in other aspects of our lives. Out with, it’s considered pretty negative and is often used to sum up tired traditions and points of view. However, in fashion, it’s more of a quiet observation. Trends go in and out of style at such a rapid rate you could argue that everything, even things considered to be wardrobe staples, goes through a phase where it feels a little “dated” in comparison.
Looking at my own clothing collection, many of my most-cherished pieces might be considered “dated” right now, but that doesn’t mean I’m going to stop wearing them; to be honest, who could or would want to sustain keeping up with what’s trending? You would have no sartorial identity of your own; you’d merely be mirroring what the runway and social media are telling you is “in.” In my 12 years writing about fashion, I’ve come to realise that the best dressed people are the ones open to embracing new aesthetics that serve them but don’t turn their back on the looks and items they really love either. Like almost all things, it’s about the balance.
This is why I do think it’s useful for us to talk about the trends, although they may have excited us last year, we wouldn’t necessarily recommend investing in, going by the way 2023 has shaped up. This, of course, is completely subjective, which is why I’ve asked some of my knowledgeable colleagues to tell me which trends they personally feel are “dated” right now and which they think feel fresh in comparison. I’ll be transparent: Many of us couldn’t agree with one another, so if you don’t agree with the below, that’s okay by us! It’s serves as further proof of how subjective these trends can be.
Scroll on to discover the trends our editors are passing on this season, countered with the trends they’re looking forward to wearing. I might be biased, but I think it makes for an interesting read.
