Fashion is an ever-changing landscape, with trends that come and go like the tides. But amidst the rapid shifts, some pieces manage to stand the test of time, cherished by individuals who style them according to their unique tastes. In a culture dominated by fleeting trends, 11 fashion creatives from various backgrounds share their personal stories of how they still rock pieces that have long exited the mainstream runway.
“It’s the person who makes an outfit, not the pieces,” says Rosa-Lee O’Reilly, a writer and fashion enthusiast. This sentiment captures the essence of the article's exploration. While trends dictate what’s in vogue, true personal style is immutable and very much about how an individual chooses to express themselves.
Bella De Almeida Reis, a marketing executive at PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival, fondly recalls her bold, red tracksuit pants that once gained popularity in the early 2010s during the Glee wave. “If bold, red tracksuit pants gained attention during that era, did they ever really go out of style? I don’t think so.” She believes vintage fashion offers the opportunity to repurpose items that have timeless appeal. The straight-leg tracksuits she found in a vintage store have become a versatile staple in her modern wardrobe.
Redefining the notion of casual style, Harry Reid, who is a content creator and lawyer, showcases his Jaded London jorts, a gift from his brother. Though jorts might have peaked in popularity, Harry cleverly styles them to reflect his personality, reminiscent of a David Beckham-inspired look. His playful approach to fashion combines oversized items with vintage accessories, illustrating how he brings uniqueness to a seemingly dated piece.
Writer Rosa-Lee O’Reilly demonstrates her longtime admiration for tiger print, continually drawn to her faded but dearly-loved tiger print bag. “Trends tend to bore me, and they're usually very overpriced. Yet, I love this bag because it tells a story; how all of our items should be,” she remarks, showcasing how her style incorporates items imbued with nostalgia and personal history.
Ella Jackson, designer and founder of Catholic Guilt, reflects on a silk Ovate dress she has worn for a decade. “It’s starting to show some wear and is torn away in parts, but I love the distressed aesthetic,” she shares, illustrating how the passage of time enhances the beauty of beloved pieces. Ella elegantly pairs her dress with contemporary elements, balancing past and present fashion effortlessly.
Meanwhile, Daniel Mizzi, a writer who relishes the unconventional, describes his striking red velvet capris, which come with sewn ruching that adds an interesting flair. Surprisingly, he hasn’t succumbed to societal norms around men's fashion. Instead, “I wear them not to be contrarian but simply because I’m fond of them,” he laughs, proving that a sense of personal connection can elevate any garment.
Jess King, a model, challenges traditional fashion rules, celebrating oversized jackets and relaxed fits as staples in her wardrobe. “This outfit stays in my wardrobe because it makes me feel strong and effortlessly cool, regardless of trends,” she asserts, emphasizing that confidence is the true hallmark of style, rather than conforming to rigid expectations.
Fashion content creator Mattie Gouman exemplifies a joyful vibrance by integrating colourful textures into her outfits. “My personal style always includes a pop of colour,” she states, enjoying the mixed-and-matched outfits even as trends like the Canadian Tuxedo weave in and out of popularity. While denim styles remain ever-popular, Mattie's personal touch dictates her unwavering affection for classic pieces.
James Parr, a model and advocate, emphasizes a nostalgic communist approach to fashion by showcasing a 1990s classic Tommy Hilfiger tracksuit pant. Incorporating elements from street culture into high fashion, James’ approach reflects how trends from previous decades continue to inspire contemporary styles.
Allie Daisy King, a writer and social producer, finds joy in eccentric details, wearing a Lisa Says Gah bow sweater that instantly brightens the cold days. Despite the label of 'microtrend’, Allie remains undeterred by arbiters of fashion, championing personal expression over fleeting trends.
Finally, Sienna Barton, a writer and artist, adores the versatility of corset tops, even as their popularity fluctuates. “I love a corset top because the lacing means they always fit,” she points out while reiterating her commitment to wearing what feels right for her, whether in or out of style.
Waddle, a creative director and stylist, artfully combines flannels and silk slip skirts in an eclectic blend of textures. “Trends are a great reference; they can inspire and highlight some great colours, cuts, and styles,” she observes, embracing a non-gender-specific mix of vintage and modern pieces that resonates with her unique sense of self.
This article reflects on how styles incorporate beauty and personal meaning, and the tales behind each cherished item illuminate a vital truth: fashion may fluctuate, but authenticity remains timeless. Personal expression through clothing is a journey, one where some pieces – like old friends – are always welcomed back.
