Why Are We Dressing Like
Children Again?
Barettes, tights, and charm jewelry mark fashion’s return to childhood
Recently, the fashion world has witnessed a resurgence of trends that many of us thought were left behind in the back corners of our childhood closets.
There’s the obvious bow trend which, thanks to TikTok, took over the fashion world with an unexpected force. But if you dive deeper, you’ll discover that our current fashion landscape is home to an abundance of nostalgia: sequins, layers of charm bracelets, barrettes, tulle, and tights. At first glance, these recent trends might seem like mere fads– but they hold a deeper significance. They are not just fabric and glitter; they are the relics of our childhoods, making a strong return to the forefront of our wardrobes.
This resurgence of child-like trends prompts the question: why is Gen-Z, many of whom are on the cusp of adulthood, rummaging through our childhood closets’ to find the lace ribbons and Paul Frank baby tees that we swore we would never wear again? The answer has different layers, touching on our desire to reclaim a sense of empowerment that was compromised by the pressure to grow up too quickly.
However, these current fashion trends offer more than just a nostalgic factor; they represent a powerful form of self-expression and autonomy. By integrating elements of our childhood attire into our adult wardrobes, we are not merely reminiscing; we are making a statement, even if it's unknowingly. This blend of past and present allows young women in particular to redefine femininity on their own terms, free from the male gaze. It's a celebration of personal identity that honors where we've come from and who we've become.
This trend transcends the boundaries of mere aesthetics; it's a form of emotional healing and self-acceptance. For many, revisiting the styles of their youth serves as a way to reclaim the joy and freedom of childhood—a time when dressing up was an unbridled adventure, guided by imagination rather than trends or judgment. The act of incorporating childhood favorites into everyday outfits allows adults to reconnect with a part of themselves that was once suppressed in the pursuit of maturity. Being able to play around with prints, textures, and accessories allows the little girl playing dress up with her mom’s closet to come to life again. It's a gentle reminder that, despite the inevitable process of getting old and eventually being thrown into the real world, the essence of who we are remains constant.
Childhood fashion trends challenge conventional notions of age-appropriate dressing, allowing us to explore a more playful approach to fashion. As we embrace these trends, we free the spirited child within us to surface once again, reminding us that, at its core, fashion is an expression of self—unfettered, authentic, and timeless.
For the fashion hoarder, this trend is especially validating— you might want to hold off on that closet cleanout after all.