Scrolling through my camera roll, I was caught off guard by some of my atrocious outfits. Unsurprisingly, I noticed some drastic differences across 17 years of style. Analyzing my outfits across the years, I can only describe the trends as a fishing hook; one that starts on a high, has a massive drop-off for the next couple of years, and then slowly works its way back up. With that being said, the following are my most iconic fashion eras and each of their unique styles and experiences.
Unconsciously Dripped
As a young child (from the ages 3 – 5ish), I had no say in my outfits, but thanks to my parents, I was consistently decked out.
Exhibit A:
Featuring the All-Star Champion Zip-Up, Jeans, New Balances, and Retro Glasses that were before their time, I felt like the best looking 4 years old in China (where I was traveling at the time). This could arguably have been my fashion peak. At this point in my life, I probably wasn’t even aware of what I was putting on or how tough my fit was, but my present self remains proud. This segment of my fashion life, named Unconsciously Dripped, epitomizes good time and freedom. Most of the time, clothes were not even a consideration, and if anything a hassle, which in turn fostered a a fearless mindset; I was not afraid of getting dirty, jumping in puddles, climbing trees, and rolling around, all while dressed like a stud. It is a mindset and look that I miss and sadly cannot ever re-achieve.
Neon, Shorts & Tights, Nike Elites
A past that I am embarrassed about, but a necessary stepping stone in my life. Around the age of 7, I started to inquire about the idea of buying my own clothes, which in retrospect had the right principle idea but was executed horribly.
Through the majority of elementary school and early middle school, I was looking like a clown, simply throwing together whatever I grabbed first. At this point, my parents had stopped dressing me, honoring my desire for independence, but it came at a sacrifice of my looks. I do not know what I was thinking, putting together an outfit in the middle of winter that composed of a short sleeve shirt over a long sleeve hoodie, compression tights under a pair of neon shorts that reached my knees, and neon Nike elite socks pulled all the way up over the ankle where the compression tights ended. This exact combination is what nightmares are based on. On a daily basis, I looked like a highlighter had exploded all over me, or I was purposely trying to wear as many colors and types of clothes as possible, I looked like a walking oxymoron, and worst of all, so did all my friends. We would walk to school hyping each other up for our new multicolored socks looking absolutely horrible, while our parents just watched without saying a word. Best believe I will not be letting my child dress like that. But you know what they say “The comeback is always stronger.” – at least I hope.
Sweats, Sweats, Sweats
This period blends in with the previous. For nearly 7 years, I refused to wear anything but sweats and athletic wear.
After I escaped my neon fever, I unfortunately still worse all athletic clothing, with ‘improved’ color coordination, from Nike, Addidas, and ‘ select Under Armor – no Puma of course. But the only thing I feared more than Puma, were jeans. My wardrobe consisted of 5 pairs of pants (all black and grey athletic sweats), about 7 different Nike shirts, and 3 Nike hoodies. It was not until I traveled to NYC, LA, and Japan, that I recognized my monotonous style, not to be mistaken for minimalist. I found that outside of the suburbs, people were not always wearing tracksuits, but rather khakis, slacks, blazers, and colored shirts that complemented blank hoodies or vice versa. Seeing that the vast majority of people indeed did not wear sweats, I regretted not exploring new areas of fashion, but also found promise in the opportunity to experiment with new styles since then.
The Modern Me
Now, especially entering a new chapter of my life in college, I realize that my fashion styles are ever-changing, with many more eras to come. Currently, I enjoy thrifting and have a combination of professional, and casual clothing, as well as classic button-downs fit for winter or on the beach. Although PJs will always find their way into my outfit rotation. Perhaps in 10 years, I will once again question my current fashion decisions, but as of current, I am satisfied with my progression.
Exhibit D:
