Do fashion trends that pop up and vanish frustrate you? Despite being unflattering and associated with a negative connotation like “ugly,” it includes seemingly evergreen fashion items that almost everyone wears.
Even if these trends are not working for you, a few ugly clothing trends have proved themselves as high fashion many times and still remain relevant. Here are seven such ugly yet fashionable trends that continue to dominate the fashion world.
- Tie-Dye
A retro pattern or style for clothing, tie-dye has remained popular ever since it was first introduced. But, like most other prints and graphics, even tie-dye has had its fair share of resurges and fizzles.
For instance, it was a massive trend in the ‘70s and ‘90s. But then, it faded off from the fashion world for some time before making a comeback in 2019, consistently ranking in the top 10 most searched prints and patterns in women’s wear.
Perhaps, one reason behind tie-dye’s popularity is that it doubles as a DIY activity. Anyone with a backyard, a bucket, and some white clothes can tie-dye. When quarantine and social distancing norms cooped up people at home, DIY tie-dying proved to be diverting. So, it is right to say that the pandemic did help cement the tie-dye reign.
- Neon
Neon colors are considered an ugly fashion trend because they can go two ways—they can either be super fun or too intense. Perhaps, the former is why people still embrace neon clothing despite its divisive personality. What’s more, even high-end fashion brands like Gucci and Zara are adopting visually arresting themes.
If you are unsure how to style your neon, consider pairing your neon dress with a black blazer or sheer stockings for chilly weather. On the other hand, if you feel shy wearing neon, tone down your bright choices with neutral accessories and nude makeup.
- Oversized Eyeglasses
Oversized eyeglasses are considered an “ugly” fashion trend because they are loosely put together and geeky to make you appear. However, they’re still popularly used and in demand. Why?
Part of the reason why you might find oversized eyeglasses less flattering might be because you don’t know how to wear them right. Oversized proportions and thick Prada eyeglasses frames with true square or gently rounded shapes will make you instantly look fashionable without putting much effort into it. All you have to do is slip into a t-shirt, some high-waisted denim flares, a cool leather jacket, and a fancy scarf.
- Plaid
Though it has never been in the spotlight, plaid has been around for long. Cheap, comfortable, and readily available, plaid comes in several classic color combinations like red and black or blue and green. Thanks to brands like Carhartt, Vans, and Patagonia, they have also managed to keep their presence.
Consider pairing your plaid with a plain black tank top, blue jeans, or a casual dress. An oversized plaid flannel shirt will also work wonders. Layer it like a jacket, and keep it open. Wear it with more sleek styling pieces such as skinny jeans or bike shorts.
- Flip Flops
If you prefer comfort over everything else, then you will love flip flops or sandal designs. Over the past few summers, these shoes have evolved to be more than just house slippers and are currently a huge summer fashion staple.
From being the first choice for running errands, flip flops have been seen on the feet of several women—Scandinavian street style stars to celebrities who stepped out for a date night in heeled versions. Numerous brands have also tried to dress up the ordinary flip flop silhouette to make it look more flattering.
First came the flat and feathery pair from Helmut Lang in 2018, then a sportier platform version by Paco Rabanne in 2019, and then most recently, the minimal versions of the silhouette from Marni and The Row. Whether you prefer fewer straps, a better mentality, or the rhythmic sounds they create with every step, the flip-flop is truly unique and here to stay for the long haul.
- Polo Shirts
The polo shirt is reinventing itself as something ultra-fashionable, capturing the catwalks with Prada, Miu Miu, and Loewe. First introduced by Rene Lacoste in 1927, tennis players were the first to rock polo shirts. Soon it met with great success in America, where it became a notable trend among university-goers.
Often sold by luxury brands, what makes polo shirts pricier is the fact that they are made from a different material than the typical t-shirt. Regardless, with its casual silhouette and bold look, it surely is a lesson in style.
- Loafers
Noughties trends dominate the clothing realm, and the 90s aesthetics are taking over the world of shoes. Meaning, like half-up, half-down hairdos, and face-framing fringes, chunky loafers are holding the ground in the footwear realm.
Coming off of the grunge look, loafers had a slow start, but nearly everyone uses them today. Perhaps, their popularity is partly due to the high demand for loungewear caused by the pandemic. If you wish to rock this style, go for the chunkier version. It is the perfect way to add height without having to deal with an uncomfortable heel.
Get Ugly
When it comes to rocking ugly fashion trends, the key is finding the balance and avoiding the polarizing effect. If you have been mulling over a neon dress, have found yourself tempted to buy oversized glasses, or can’t still decide whether or not to wear flip-flops, your best bet is to go for it. So embrace these styles, play with them, and be part of the ugly fashion bandwagon.
