The Who What Wear Podcast: The State of Style in 2024 with Senior Fashion Editor Anna LaPlaca
Release Date: November 13, 2024
Introduction
In this insightful episode of The Who What Wear Podcast, host Kat Collings sits down with Senior Fashion Editor Anna LaPlaca to delve into the "State of Style" for 2024. Anna's meticulously researched analysis offers a comprehensive look at the prevailing fashion trends, the cultural underpinnings influencing these shifts, and the broader societal movements shaping the industry. This episode serves as an essential guide for fashion enthusiasts looking to stay ahead of the curve.
Overview of 2024 State of Style
Anna LaPlaca introduces the concept of the "State of Style," likening it to a "state of the Union" for fashion. This annual review examines why certain trends gain prominence over others, considering factors from politics and economics to pop culture.
Notable Quote:
"Trends are something that our team of fashion editors doesn't just get together to invent. There are so many factors that affect what's in style, from politics and economics all the way to pop culture."
— Anna LaPlaca [02:55]
Individualism and Personalization in Fashion
One of the standout themes of 2024 is the shift towards individualism. After years dominated by minimalism and quiet luxury, fashion is now embracing personal expression and uniqueness.
Notable Quote:
"One of the main overall style shifts is the move towards individualism... it's an explosion of personal style."
— Anna LaPlaca [06:35]
This movement is seen as a reaction against the "feelings of sameness" perpetuated by social media algorithms, pushing consumers to seek uniqueness in their wardrobe choices.
Accessory Trends Reflecting Individualism
Accessories have become a primary avenue for expressing personal style. Bag charms, for instance, have surged in popularity, allowing individuals to customize and personalize their handbags effortlessly.
Notable Quote:
"Bag charms are really a fun and honestly quick way to really just express yourself and individualize your look without having to buy an entire new wardrobe."
— Anna LaPlaca [07:49]
Additionally, trends in sneaker customization, such as replacing laces with colorful fabrics or adding charms, and personalized totes with embroidery, further emphasize this trend.
Little Luxuries and the Luxury Market
The rise of "little luxuries" marks a significant trend in the luxury sector. These are smaller-ticket items that offer consumers a taste of luxury without the hefty price tag, aligning with the economic principle known as the "lipstick effect."
Notable Quote:
"These little items are a fun way to kind of add some spice to your look and feel like you are buying something that feels a little bit special without having to make a huge investment purchase."
— Anna LaPlaca [11:31]
Examples include pillbox hats, sculptural ponytail cuffs, statement belts, and 80s-inspired earrings.
Shift from Quiet Luxury to Old Money Aesthetic
While quiet luxury remains influential, 2024 sees a pivot towards the "old money" aesthetic. This style emphasizes signaling an entire lifestyle of wealth rather than individual luxury items.
Notable Quote:
"Old money is more about signaling this entire lifestyle of wealth rather than just owning a one-off luxury buy."
— Anna LaPlaca [12:49]
This aesthetic draws inspiration from classic brands and styles that convey a sense of timeless elegance, often associated with equestrian and Americana influences.
Maximalism: The Rise of Opulent Fashion
Maximalism is making a bold return, characterized by ornate, lavish, and opulent clothing. This trend stands in stark contrast to the minimalism of previous years, embracing bold colors, rich fabrics, and intricate designs.
Notable Quote:
"Maximalism is defined by an explosion of just like colors and prints, but done in a really 80s coded way."
— Anna LaPlaca [36:17]
Designers like Valentino, Loewe, Therese Van Noten, and Saint Laurent are at the forefront, showcasing collections that feature strong shoulders, ruffled skirts, and vibrant patterns reminiscent of 1980s excess.
Hot Ticket Items and Influential Brands
Several key items and brands are driving the 2024 fashion landscape:
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Barn Coats: Experiencing a 225% increase in searches, barn coats have become the jacket of the season, symbolizing both style and a leisurely, affluent lifestyle.
Notable Quote:
"Barn coats are a huge part of signaling wealth and status and are a trend that is absolutely defining fall style right now."
— Anna LaPlaca [17:07] -
Loro Piana: Known for its quiet luxury, brands like Loro Piana and Ralph Lauren are seeing a resurgence, especially among Gen Z consumers, bolstered by viral trends and high-profile runway shows.
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Ralph Lauren: With a reported 151% spike in brand engagement this quarter, Ralph Lauren remains a staple of Americana and equestrian fashion, further solidified by their impactful runway shows.
The Return of Boho and Its Cultural Significance
Bohemian style is making a significant comeback, primarily driven by the influential fashion house Chloe under new creative director Shamina Kamali. This revival is characterized by ruffled chiffon, platformed clogs, and layered accessories, echoing the free-spirited and anti-establishment vibes of the 1960s.
Notable Quote:
"The return of boho mirrors the free-spirited, anti-establishment energy that's happening right now, similar to the youth-led movements of the 60s."
— Anna LaPlaca [26:29]
Celebrities like Sienna Miller, Daisy Edgar-Jones, and Sydney Sweeney have popularized these looks, which have also been embraced by affordable retailers like Mango and Zara.
Contrasting Trends: Boho vs. Brat Summer
While boho represents a revival of romantic and free-spirited styles, Brat Summer (or year) emerges as a counter-trend emphasizing club attire and a more rebellious, undone aesthetic. Charli XCX epitomizes this trend with her hedonistic and anti-conservative style, characterized by minimal makeup and edgy outfits.
Notable Quote:
"Brat Summer is about rebellion and pushing against structured norms, much like the boho movement's countercultural roots."
— Anna LaPlaca [28:31]
This duality showcases the fashion industry's response to diverse consumer desires for both expressiveness and rebellion.
Shifts in Shapes and Silhouettes
While some classic shapes remain, there's a noticeable shift towards more fitted silhouettes. After a period dominated by oversized and baggy styles, fitted jeans and tailored trousers are gaining traction.
Notable Quote:
"Looking ahead, there's a movement towards more fitted silhouettes, such as slim-fitting jeans and cigarette trousers."
— Anna LaPlaca [31:03]
Designers like Proenza Schouler and brands like Lafayette 148 are leading this transition, offering sleek and chic alternatives to previously popular baggy styles.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways on Fashion Trends for 2025
Anna LaPlaca wraps up the discussion by highlighting two primary themes that will dominate the fashion landscape moving into 2025:
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Explosion of Personalization: From bag charms to embroidered totes, consumers are seeking ways to personalize their style, embracing self-expression as a means of differentiation.
Notable Quote:
"We'll really see people lean into self-expression as a way to differentiate themselves from the rest of the pack."
— Anna LaPlaca [35:17] -
Maximalism and Opulence: The resurgence of maximalism, characterized by vibrant colors, rich fabrics, and intricate designs, will continue to define the aesthetic, encouraging bold and opulent fashion choices.
Notable Quote:
"Maximalism will be defined by an explosion of colors and prints done in a really 80s coded way."
— Anna LaPlaca [36:17]
These trends underscore a fashion industry poised for a playful and expressive renaissance, encouraging individuals to embrace their unique styles while celebrating opulent and vibrant designs.
Final Thoughts
The Who What Wear Podcast episode featuring Anna LaPlaca offers a thorough and engaging exploration of the current and upcoming fashion trends. By intertwining data-driven insights with cultural analysis, the discussion provides a nuanced understanding of how societal shifts influence style. Whether you're a fashion professional or an enthusiast, this episode equips you with the knowledge to navigate and embrace the dynamic world of fashion in 2024 and beyond.