Fashion from around the world reflects the diversity of cultures and heritage. The resulting styles can influence global trends.
These include the kimono in Japan, the cheongsam in China, and the hanbok in Korea. Other styles include hip hop style, which is influenced by popular music genres.
Hoop earrings and scripted necklaces are also a fashion trend that originated from Black culture.
African Fashion
African Fashion is a true expression of culture and artistic creativity. It is also becoming more contemporary, with designers incorporating influences from foreign cultures into their designs.
A slew of designers—including Alphadi, Kofi Ansah, Naima Bennis and Shade Thomas-Fahm—are showcased in the exhibition. Each of their collections exemplify the African cultural renaissance through prints, colors and fabrics.
In addition to clothing, the show includes a selection of accessories that demonstrate the importance of Africa’s rich heritage and craftsmanship. From Maasai beadwork necklaces to cowrie shell bracelets, these pieces are a testament to the continent’s history and cultural significance.
Whether you’re looking for an office-appropriate African print dress or a more casual dashiki, we’ve got you covered. Just pair your ensemble with a chic handbag or wallet from Sirani and you’re set to work.
Asian Fashion
Asian fashion is diverse and deeply rooted in regional aesthetics. From Korea’s K-pop culture and Japanese Harajuku styles to Indian sarees and Southeast Asian batik techniques, these distinctive trends intermingle to create a rich tapestry of styles.
Many designers have incorporated traditional Asian clothing into their collections. From the cheongsam/qipao of China to Korean hanbok, Thai chut thais, and Indian saris, these classic garments are finding new relevance in fashion. Designers are leveraging the elegant prints and silhouettes of these traditional clothing pieces, embracing them in a manner that’s distinctly contemporary.
European Fashion
European fashion is a lot more daring and experimental. They often wear trends before they reach the mainstream, and you can see them all over the Instagram feeds of influencers and celebrities. They also know how to rock the jeans.
They are known to incorporate a lot of different patterns into their outfits. This gives a very unique look to their wardrobe. They also love to mix and match colors.
Among the popular trends, you’ll find “Europecore,” which is like Scandi Girl Autumn with French accents, and the recent obsession with vintage Jean Paul Gaultier thanks to Bella Hadid and Kylie Jenner’s love for his plaid shirts. It’s a form of gentle cosplay that many are enjoying as an escape from the gloomy, polarized political landscape.
Latin American Fashion
For a style that is modern but never takes itself too seriously, look to Latin American designers. From a patterned knit poncho to a pair of slim-cropped pants, these brands are bringing the best of their culture to the world.
Hispanic and Latinx-owned brands like Embroidered Essentials by Karla Deras and Tiempos showcase the beauty of imperfection. Taking inspiration from their home countries, they center traditional artisan techniques that are slowly making their way into a modern context.
Other brands, like J Balvin, elevate the quinceaera (a girl’s 15th birthday celebration) with designs that celebrate femininity and culture. And Colombian designer Rosario Aguilar elevates gaucho pants, traditionally worn by cowboys in Argentina. The trousers are so coveted that they’re often copied, including by Isabel Marant.
Modern Fashion Trends
Modern fashion trends include culturally inspired outfits that aren’t just for special occasions. Some designers create a line that is specific to one culture, while other brands incorporate elements of multiple cultures into their collections. This can create a debate over cultural appropriation and appreciation.
In 2023, the naked dress trend goes glam and practical, from a cellophane-like frock at Tory Burch to a frothy frock that reveals undergarments at Victoria Beckham. Utilitarian wear is also on-point with cargo pants that go beyond the shapeless shapes of Y2K, seen at the likes of Givenchy and A.W.A.K.E.
Other trends, such as the Girl Next Door style endorsed by Harry Styles in his pop-culture hit “Watermelon Sugar,” are perfect for casual people who enjoy a classic denim and cozy tee look. The trend is complemented with accessories, such as big sunglasses and scripted necklaces.