2014 was a year where fashion truly made a mark, merging the old with the new and challenging the boundaries of style. From street fashion to red carpet glam, 2014 saw bold statements and trends that still influence today’s fashion scene. Whether you’re reminiscing about the edgy looks of the past decade or looking to revamp your wardrobe with inspiration from the not-too-distant past, this article dives deep into the most memorable trends of 2014 fashion.
1. Introduction to 2014 Fashion
Fashion in 2014 was all about blending nostalgia with innovation. While looking back to the 90s for inspiration, the year also set the stage for new, daring trends. It was a time when fashion began to embrace the unconventional and merge comfort with high fashion. Do you remember your favorite 2014 look? Chances are, it featured some iconic pieces like crop tops, high-waisted jeans, or bold accessories.
2. The Influence of Pop Culture
Pop culture had a massive influence on 2014 fashion. Celebrities like Rihanna, Beyoncé, and Kendall Jenner were among the most prominent style icons, dictating trends with every red carpet appearance and street-style outing. Social media also began to play a significant role in spreading fashion trends, with Instagram becoming a major platform for influencers and brands to showcase their styles. Remember the #OOTD (Outfit of the Day) craze? It was a huge part of this year’s fashion buzz!
3. 2014’s Take on Street Style
Street style was a driving force in 2014 fashion, with bloggers and fashionistas leading the charge. The year was all about mixing high fashion with everyday wear. People were no longer afraid to pair sneakers with dresses or mix vintage pieces with new ones. The key was authenticity—being true to your personal style while staying on-trend. It was the year of oversized coats, leather jackets, and the infamous plaid flannel shirt making a comeback.
4. The Return of 90s Fashion
If one decade was making a comeback in 2014, it was undoubtedly the 90s. From chokers and grunge-inspired looks to overalls and platform shoes, the 90s were everywhere. Fashionistas embraced baggy denim, velvet pieces, and even slip dresses over T-shirts. It was a nostalgic revival that added a vintage twist to modern-day outfits.
5. Athleisure: Comfort Meets Style
Athleisure, the trend of wearing athletic clothing in everyday settings, took off in 2014. Fashion-forward individuals began incorporating leggings, joggers, and sneakers into their daily wardrobes, not just for workouts but for casual outings too. Brands like Nike and Adidas saw a huge surge in popularity as people sought the perfect blend of comfort and style. Athleisure was a way of saying, “I look good, and I feel even better.”
6. High-Waisted Everything
One of the most defining elements of 2014 fashion was the high-waisted trend. High-waisted jeans, skirts, and shorts were everywhere, creating a silhouette that highlighted the waist and gave outfits a vintage flair. This style was both flattering and versatile, working well with crop tops (another major trend of the year) and oversized sweaters alike.
7. Crop Tops: A 2014 Essential
Crop tops became the go-to piece in 2014, worn with high-waisted skirts, jeans, and shorts. They were seen on the streets, on runways, and at music festivals like Coachella. Whether paired with a casual denim jacket or dressed up for a night out, the crop top was a symbol of playful, youthful fashion.
8. Statement Accessories
Accessories were big and bold in 2014. Think oversized sunglasses, chunky necklaces, and wide-brimmed hats. These statement pieces were perfect for elevating simple outfits. For example, a basic white tee and jeans combo could be transformed with a pair of large hoop earrings or a statement belt. It was all about finding that one accessory that would make your outfit pop.
9. Colors and Patterns of 2014
2014 fashion was full of vibrant colors and bold patterns. Pastel tones like baby blue and mint green were particularly popular, giving outfits a soft, dreamy feel. On the other end of the spectrum, bold geometric prints, animal prints, and even florals made a statement. The contrast between soft hues and striking patterns kept things interesting and allowed for personal expression.
10. Footwear Trends
Footwear in 2014 was all about mixing comfort with style. Sneakers became a staple, even in more formal settings, thanks to the rise of the athleisure trend. Brands like Converse, Adidas, and Nike were at the forefront. Meanwhile, chunky boots and sandals, particularly Birkenstocks, were making waves. Pointed-toe flats and ankle boots were also seen everywhere, giving fashion lovers plenty of options to complete their looks.
11. Men’s Fashion in 2014
Men’s fashion in 2014 was all about embracing tailored yet relaxed pieces. Slim-fit jeans and chinos were the norm, often paired with casual button-down shirts or plain tees. Bomber jackets and leather jackets were also key staples. Footwear for men followed similar trends, with sneakers becoming acceptable in more casual work settings, while dress shoes remained the go-to for formal occasions.
12. Red Carpet Moments
Who could forget the red carpet looks of 2014? From Lupita Nyong’o’s stunning blue gown at the Oscars to Rihanna’s daring two-piece outfit at the CFDA Fashion Awards, the year was filled with unforgettable fashion moments. Celebrities pushed boundaries with unique silhouettes, daring cutouts, and bold colors, influencing everyday fashion in the process.
13. The Influence of Technology on Fashion
The rise of social media platforms like Instagram played a huge role in shaping 2014 fashion trends. Influencers were able to share their styles with a global audience, and brands began collaborating with online personalities to push new collections. Fashion became more immediate and accessible, with people taking inspiration from their favorite influencers and online stars.
14. How 2014 Fashion Still Impacts Today’s Trends
Many of the trends that defined 2014 are still relevant today. Athleisure, for instance, has only grown in popularity, and the high-waisted silhouette continues to dominate. Street style remains a driving force, and social media continues to play a huge role in shaping fashion trends. While some trends, like crop tops, have evolved, their essence remains part of today’s fashion landscape.
15. Conclusion: The Legacy of 2014 Fashion
2014 was a pivotal year in fashion, blending comfort with style, the old with the new. It was a year where personal expression and creativity reigned supreme, and many of the trends that emerged continue to influence how we dress today. Whether you were a fan of athleisure, bold accessories, or nostalgic 90s looks, 2014 fashion left a lasting impact that can’t be denied.
FAQs
1. What was the biggest fashion trend of 2014?
One of the biggest trends was the rise of athleisure, where athletic wear became part of everyday fashion. Crop tops and high-waisted jeans were also incredibly popular.
2. Did 90s fashion come back in 2014?
Yes, 90s fashion made a major comeback in 2014 with trends like chokers, platform shoes, and overalls becoming popular once again.
3. How did social media influence 2014 fashion?
Social media, particularly Instagram, played a huge role in spreading fashion trends in 2014. Influencers and celebrities used these platforms to share their styles, which quickly caught on with the general public.
4. What accessories were popular in 2014?
Statement accessories, including oversized sunglasses, chunky necklaces, and wide-brimmed hats, were all popular in 2014.
5. Are any 2014 fashion trends still relevant today?
Many trends from 2014, such as athleisure, high-waisted jeans, and street style, remain influential in today’s fashion world.