Looking Back at the Most Influential Fashion Pieces of 2024

This year’s viral fashion trends have achieved their ultimate goal: captivating Gen Z and generating serious buzz—and revenue—for brands. Whether sparking controversy or celebrating individuality, these trends aren’t just about aesthetics; they’re about pushing boundaries and redefining what “authenticity” means, with a flair that’s as irresistible as it is innovative. Here’s a breakdown of the standout items that have taken the style scene by storm.

Indie sleaze is back, and with it, a wave of early-2000s nostalgia—think asymmetrical haircuts, vintage band tees, and, of course, baggy jeans. This season, the loose-fit denim look has officially reclaimed its spot in the limelight. Evoking the 90s skater vibe, these jeans are effortlessly cool, whether worn with chunky sneakers or paired with a statement jacket. From the runways to the streets of London, It-girls have made it clear: baggy is the way to go.

While Adidas Samba enthusiasts are still loyal, 2024 has seen the rise of other retro sneakers that bring fresh energy to vintage vibes. Iconic styles like the Adidas SL72, Handball Spezials, and Puma Speedcats are making a major comeback, evoking the effortless cool of the 1980s. Collaborations like Wales Bonner x Adidas Originals have only deepened the obsession, with subtle reimaginings of Sambas, Samba Millenniums, and Superstars. These sneakers aren’t just shoes—they’re a walk down memory lane with a modern twist.

Last year, Alaïa’s ballet flats were everywhere. This year, designer Pieter Mulier has delivered another hit: the Le Teckel bag. This chic “east/west” design is available in 12 candy-colored shades and adorned with playful embellishments, making it a must-have for fashionistas. Named after the French word for Dachshund, the bag is a nod to the late Azzedine Alaïa’s love of dogs. Equal parts functional and whimsical, it’s the accessory that has everyone talking.

At The Row’s Pre/Fall 2024 show—one of the rare moments when Ashley and Mary-Kate Olsen allowed photos—the opening model stepped out in red, wavy-hemmed jelly flats. The audience collectively wondered: are jelly shoes worth £709? For many, the answer was an enthusiastic yes. But for those seeking a more budget-friendly option, Ancient Greek Sandals’ Iro flats, priced at £85, became the summer’s breakout star. From beaches to city streets, jelly shoes brought a dose of childhood nostalgia to high fashion—blisters and all.

Rhode’s Peptide Lip Tints turned heads not just for their formula, but for their genius packaging. Hailey Bieber’s selfie in February—featuring her Lip Tint perfectly slotted into a custom rubber phone case—was a stroke of marketing brilliance. Within weeks, the cases sold out, evolving with every season, including a holiday-ready Cinnamon Rolls edition. The Lip Tint case isn’t just practical; it’s a chic blend of beauty and tech innovation.

Bows have been the accessory to beat since 2023, and their popularity only continues to grow. From romantic ribbon bows to glimmering metallic accents, these dainty details elevate any outfit. Korean pop stars have embraced the trend, layering bows to create stunning stage looks. Whether tied in hair, stitched onto shoes, or adorning dresses, bows bring a timeless charm that’s impossible to ignore.

Y2K fashion meets Blade Runner in this year’s eyewear trend: futuristic sunglasses. These oversized, angular shades are the ultimate photo-ready accessory for fashion-forward girls embracing psychedelic, sci-fi vibes. Kendall Jenner gave her stamp of approval, sharing a snap of her own on Instagram, while CHANEL’s Fall/Winter 2024 runway saw guests sporting bold, avant-garde frames. When it comes to eyewear, the future has never looked brighter.

From nostalgic revivals to whimsical accessories, this year’s trends prove that fashion is as much about self-expression as it is about style. What will go viral next? Only time—and TikTok—will tell.

Photos: Getty Images, @roses_are_rosie, @kendalljenner, @haileybieber,