The Best & Worst of 2014 Fashion Trends

For some, it seems as though just yesterday we were packing our bags and loading up our cars to embark on the 2014-2015 school year here at Wesleyan. And now it’s Death Week and Christmas vacation is just around the corner. It feels like some sort of bizarre time warp; how on earth did the year fly by so fast?

As the year draws to a close, we often take time to reflect on the events of the previous months. It seems like just yesterday that Solange was duking it out with Jay-Z in an elevator and when Kimye were saying their “I Do’s” in Florence.

Yes, 2014 has brought us many things—and not all of them good. So, let’s take a moment to reflect on the fashion trends and fashion faux pas that seemed to rule the clothing stores of 2014.

Here are my picks for the best and worst trends of the year.

The Good:  

Let’s start out on a positive note, shall we?

2014 was a pretty classy year in the world of fashion because it modernized many of the mod fashions of the early 60s—especially in the spring. In a society of twerking and booty shorts, this was definitely a plus! We managed to bring classy back, even if it was only for a short period of time.

One of my personal favorites of 2014 was the embellished top. In the winter, it started out with sweaters decked out in gems. As the year went on, this style carried over to other tops and even some bottoms, as well. T-shirts, blouses, and crop tops all featured this shimmery fashion trend. The best part of this trend is that it has the ability to stay in style for quite some time—and it’s the perfect way to dress up any drab ensemble!

Two other trends that made 2014 shine were harem/palazzo pants and tropical prints.

Harem/palazzo pants were the perfect easy, breezy solution to maxi skirts and shorts this past spring. They were simultaneously dressy and effortless—and comfy to boot! Unfortunately, this is a trend that probably isn’t here to stay. Just think about how short of a time they lasted in MC Hammer’s day.

Tropical prints, like harem pants, probably made a brief appearance in the world of style this past summer, but they were fun while they lasted! What better way to get into summer mode than donning a pair of bright green shorts splattered in palm trees? This was a trend that was just wacky enough to work, but not classy enough to stay. 

The Bad: Now for the moment you’ve all been waiting for. Let’s start with a fall favorite, shall we?

Three words: Quilted. Riding. Boots.

I’m not sure why these are so popular. Why are they quilted? To keep your horse warm? To match that bedspread that your grandma made you last Christmas? Whatever the reason, this just needs to stop. Preferably soon. Let’s stick with classic leather look.

And then there’s the Céline/Célfie T-shirts. 

There’s something about these shirts that just seems pretentious. 

Admittedly, they were kind of cool when they came out—and I even wanted one because I’m a little pretentious, too.

But then everyone and their mother had one and I came to my senses. It’s just a white T-shirt with black letters on it, not anything truly fashion-forward.

What were some of your likes/dislikes this past year?

Let us know in the comment section below! And be sure to stay on the lookout for the upcoming trends of 2015—who knows what next year will have in store!