Top 10 Fashion Trends of the Last Decade

In the 2010s, the high waist took every outfit to new heights. From Mom Jeans to shorts, these pants were all the rage. After kissing low-rise trends of the 2000s goodbye, fashion lovers couldn't get enough of these hip-hugging belly button-covering trousers. A style fixture of the 70s and 80s, the fad made its triumphant return thanks to celebs like Taylor Swift and Jennifer Lopez, who helped popularize the craze once again. Although the 2020s tend to favor looser fits like Boyfriend Jeans, we think the higher waist will always find a way back into our closets.

Although androgynous fashion is nothing new, the past decade has seen a significant surge in its popularity. As gender norms continue to be challenged, the retail industry has started offering more options for consumers to express their fluidity through style and fashion. Artists like Harry Styles, Zendaya, and Billy Porter are examples of celebs who elevate the fashion game by breaking the stereotype. Gone are the days when outfits like suits and dresses were marketed toward a certain gender. With society and culture constantly progressing, the fashion world is sure to evolve alongside them.

Time to grab your flower crowns and favorite crochet top! Over the past decade, Coachella has become one of the year's biggest pop culture events. Although it's a music festival, the affair has become notable for its wardrobe scene. Boho chic is the overwhelming go-to, a style which is heavily influenced by the hippie counterculture of the 1960s, as well as Bohemianism, which itself dates back to 19th century Europe. Vanessa Hudgens, an annual attendee of the fest, is known for serving some of the best Coachella looks year after year. Despite its fun appearance, festival wear can sometimes be problematic. For instance, many celebs have been called out for cultural appropriation with respect to traditional headdresses and the like. So, it's always a good call to research before planning an outfit.

The Boyfriend Blazer is one of the most versatile of recent fashion trends. It can be worn to work or on a night out, in the spring or in the fall, and is a total must-have for every fashion lover. Whether dressed up or down, the comfortable yet professional nature of the jacket is one of its best features. Offering a structured yet loose fitting silhouette, everyone from Hailey Bieber to Emily Ratajkowski has been rocking the garment as of late. Once a borrowed item from your partner's closet, the Boyfriend Blazer has become a staple of the last decade.

If there are two things that don’t go together, it's practicality and fashion. For the 2010s, the trend that takes home the title of most ill-considered has to be tiny sunglasses. Much like its sister trend of tiny bags, these microscopic lenses have been worn by the likes of Bella Hadid and Kylie Jenner. The Beatles were the biggest supporters of the fad in the 60s, which saw a comeback in the 90s. However, the newly emergent sunnies are a different breed. Some are so small they barely cover the wearer's eyes and offer what is laughable coverage. Despite its impractical nature, this accessory has been a hot commodity for a few years now, so we won’t judge. Or, in this case…give it any shade.

Gone are the days when dressing like your father would be deemed "uncool." Yes, the style known as Dadwear was one of this decade's hottest trends. This totally unexpected fad has seen Gen Z raiding their paternal figures' closets and thrift stores. Faded baseball caps, chunky running shoes and worn college tees are some of the garments that make up the Dadwear wardrobe. Comfortable, cozy and, above all, practical, this new fashion obsession is the perfect way to remind dads that they're cool while also staying in vogue.

From the winding roads of a Tour de France race to Rodeo Drive, bike shorts have come a long way. In the 90s, style icon Princess Diana popularized them, and today, the Kardashians have helped usher them back into style. The spandex shorts are the perfect attire for working out or running errands, and are usually complimented with an oversized top, like a hoodie or crewneck. Even blazers have been paired with them, creating the ultimate stylish yet comfy ensemble. Of course, trends come and go, but we have a feeling biker shorts are here to stay.

These days you'd be hard-pressed to find a clothing store that doesn't sell the beloved crop top. Dating back to the late 1800s, every decade has seen some version of the top. From Madonna to Gwen Stefani to Rihanna, the style keeps evolving and changing to keep up with the times. Over the past few years, the midriff-baring tee has become increasingly popular. It’s one of those garments that is pretty versatile and fun to pair with tons of other trendy pieces. Offered in various materials and textures, the crop top's life span is anything but short.

Sneakers have become a cultural phenomenon. Originally designed for physical activities like walking or running, these shoes have taken on a life of their own. Also known as runners, trainers, and tennis shoes, they've stepped up their game as probably the hottest footwear around. Brands like Nike and Adidas have even collaborated with designer brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton to produce luxury-style sneakers. Major enthusiasts are known as sneakerheads, and are often willing to line up and shell out big bucks to purchase limited edition stock or what have you. There are even sneaker conventions where collectors can hunt for the rarest and most prized pairs to add to their collections.

Never has fashion looked so comfy. Athleisure was once only worn at the gym but, today, it's everywhere. From yoga pants to tracksuits, this style of fashion is breaking the notion that beauty is pain. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the style saw significant growth in demand thanks to the new norm of working from home. Athleisure and loungewear are as practical as it gets with their flexible materials and simplicity, making them loved by all. Here's to another decade of being comfortable, cozy and, of course, fashionable.