For several years now, oversized clothing has dominated everyday fashion. Streets have been filled with people wearing shapeless, baggy outfits, while fashion brands have launched campaigns featuring models wearing oversized looks, striking the now-familiar exaggerated “goofy” poses.
Fortunately for those who appreciate genuine style, the trend is beginning to shift, and the authors of Fashion Illiteracy magazine decided it was time to talk about it.
The Rise of the Oversized Era
The oversized boom can be traced back to 2019. Even then, puffer jackets and chunky sneakers were already gaining popularity. Much of this influence came from the controversial brand Balenciaga.
The COVID-19 pandemic also played a major role in reshaping mainstream fashion. As fashion houses suffered financial losses, evening gowns and elegant suits gave way to loungewear, where comfort took priority over appearance.
Another contributing factor was the body positivity movement. Placing emphasis on body shape began to draw criticism in some circles, Victoria’s Secret completely abandoned its lingerie shows, and more covered-up looks became increasingly common on the runway.
People embraced the trend remarkably quickly. Oversized fashion proved especially popular with the younger generation. In just a few years, baggy clothing became the new normal. Skinny jeans were replaced by wide-leg styles, while sweaters and jackets suddenly seemed three sizes too big.
A Gradual Transformation
Once oversized fashion reached its peak and the “walking potato sack” look became mainstream, the pendulum started swinging back. At first, the shift was subtle.
Many people still wear oversized tops and bottoms. However, stylists are now recommending combining loose and fitted pieces. For example, wide-leg trousers look better when paired with a more fitted shirt or T-shirt.
Defined Waists Return to the Runway
Even Victoria’s Secret has brought back its lingerie shows. While that’s a fairly specific segment of the industry, the broader world of high fashion is also showing a clear return to defined silhouettes.
Silhouettes with defined waists have been appearing in Gucci collections. At the same time, public interest is gradually shifting back toward slim-fit jeans and classic dresses.
Looking at this trend, it’s fair to say that oversized fashion is “deflating.” By 2027, mainstream fashion will most likely have returned to something much closer to the silhouettes that defined the 2010s—albeit in an evolved form.
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