Strong Nostalgia for 2016, but Fashion and Beauty Trends Should Stay in the Tumblr Era
Fashion trends come and go, with each era leaving behind its unique mark on the world of style. In 2016, the fashion and beauty scenes experienced a surge of nostalgia as popular figures reminisced on social media about the trends of the past. From Kylie Jenner’s iconic King Kylie era to Hailey Bieber’s pink hair phase, celebrities took us on a trip down memory lane. Even Meghan Markle joined in, sharing throwback moments from a decade ago with videos and snaps that captivated the hearts of many.
The year 2016 was a pivotal time for fashion and beauty, characterized by vibrant colors on the red carpet, experimental makeup looks inspired by platforms like Tumblr and YouTube, and fun, light-hearted hairstyles. According to Katie Devlin, trends editor for fashion at Stylus, people are now longing for the whimsical and carefree nature of that era. As fashionistas look back fondly on 2016, certain trends have resurfaced with the hope of reliving the style moments of the past. From the resurgence of skinny jeans to the yearning for brighter hues and playful hairstyles, it’s clear that 2016 has had a lasting impact on the industry.
While many trends from 2016 are making a welcomed return, there are some that are best left in the past. For instance, wearing coats and jackets around our elbows was a peculiar trend that gained popularity at the time. This fashion faux pas not only rendered outerwear useless by leaving most of our arms exposed but also led to awkward and misshapen looks when worn incorrectly. Despite the cool factor associated with this trend, practicality was sorely lacking, making everyday activities quite challenging for those who embraced it.
Another trend that can stay in 2016 is quirky thigh-high boots. While thigh-high and over-the-knee boots remain essential staples in fashion enthusiasts’ wardrobes, the experimentation with extravagant designs in 2016 took the trend to new, impractical heights. From Olivia Culpo’s daring cut-out thigh-highs with open toes to Kim Kardashian’s denim version with a rip over the knees, these statement shoes were more fashion statements than functional footwear. While making a statement is always on-trend, comfort and wearability should never be compromised in the pursuit of fashion.
The spotlight also shone on the world of nail art in 2016, with extravagant designs and trends taking over social media feeds. From 3D nail art to embellishments like pompoms, chains, and jewels, nail enthusiasts were pushing the boundaries of creativity. However, the impracticality of these designs often outweighed their visual appeal, leading to a rise in more subtle and wearable looks in recent years. Today’s nail trends focus on subtle textures, mauve shades, and micro-French tips, offering a more subdued yet elegant approach to nail art that complements daily life without compromising style.
As we continue to draw inspiration from the trends of the past, it’s essential to discern which ones deserve a revival and which are better left as pleasant memories. Fashion is a cyclical industry, with trends resurfacing in new and innovative ways, but the key lies in adapting them to suit the modern world while retaining the essence of nostalgia that makes them timeless.