October 8th 2024.
It's no secret that fashion trends tend to cycle back around, and 2024 has been no exception. This year has been filled with nostalgia for the early 2000s, bringing back beloved staples such as low-rise denim, UGGs, and ballet flats. And while many of these trends have been met with open arms, there is one divisive trend making its way back into our wardrobes: denim shorts over tights.
For those who lived through the era of "indie sleaze," this trend may not be so well-received. But for others, it's a welcomed blast from the past. The look was popularized by school mufti days, Tumblr posts, and JustGirlyThings blogs, as well as by celebrities like Miley Cyrus, Pixie Lott, and Alexa Chung on the red carpet. And now, in the past week, the 2000s signature "shorts and tights" ensemble has officially risen from the grave.
Aimee Smale, the owner of a Gen Z clothing brand and fashion influencer, recently posted a TikTok of herself in New York City wearing a cropped black coat, black shades, light denim mini shorts, black sheer tights, and pointed-toe heels. Her caption, "10-year-old me is screaming, tights + denim," garnered over half a million views, but received mixed reactions.
Some TikTok users praised the look, with one saying it looked "more chic" than when they used to wear it with converse. Others shared their love for the trend and their plans to rock it again. However, not everyone was on board. Some expressed their dislike for the trend, while others couldn't quite put their finger on why tights under shorts didn't sit right with them.
But Aimee isn't the only influencer bringing back this trend. Saffron Barker also recently shared photos wearing denim shorts and sheer tights, this time styled with a large cream jumper, Louis Vuitton blazer, black shades, and brown boots with white knee-high socks. It gave off major Kate Moss vibes from festival season circa 2008 and received a lot of support from fans.
Before you go digging through your old gig attire to bring back this trend, keep in mind that it has been slightly modified over the years. Instead of the classic turn-up shorts, it's now all about teeny-tiny micro shorts popularized by celebrities like Emily Ratajkowski and Sophie Turner. And instead of thick black tights or leggings, sheer tights are now the go-to, giving the trend a more luxurious feel and leaving behind any "awkward tween" energy.
The trend has even made its way onto the catwalks, with Chanel's autumn/winter 2020 show featuring monogrammed tights paired with tailored shorts and pirate boots, and Saint Laurent showcasing grown-up black leather and lace with gossamer-thin hosiery for their spring/summer 2021 collection.
But as we all know, just because something is on the runway doesn't mean we should all start wearing it. So, if you prefer to leave this trend in the past, we won't hold it against you. But for those brave enough to bring back their 2000s selves in the name of fashion, blast some Katy Perry and layer up. And if you have a story to share about this trend, don't hesitate to reach out and share it with us.
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]
