The Everchanging Definition of What is a Classic

    WGSN’s trend A/W 22/23 Supercharged Simplicity is focused heavily on the transitioning of clothing, as it should be able to go from one event to another. This is seen in both menswear and womenswear, through very similar outlooks, and narrows down to concentrate on bold colors with minimalist designs. Anything can be considered a classic as long as the silhouette is correct. Traditionally, we think of classic garments being toned down in complexity and neutral toned, but this idea of “supercharged simplicity” challenges that. This trend is relatively androgynous and allows for many interpretations of design. The bold simplicity of this concept can be taken in both minimalistic and optimistic directions.

            The menswear idea collective uses bold optimism as a way to express long-lasting garments with personality. The idea that classic silhouettes and colors cannot be bombastic and bold is going to be challenged in our future, as it is in fact possible to have a closet full of interest that works with itself in the long term. The “warmth, quirkiness and reassurance of designs” are celebrated through bold colors and challenging, yet palatable silhouettes (Nick Paget, 2021). The boldness of this idea plays off itself, as we see primaries paired with each other to create color blocking and multiple points of interest. Being able to pair colors is something we are seeing commonly in womenswear but is still relatively new in menswear. This changes daily, but the facts surrounding toxic masculinity and the embracing of femininity still remain.

            The collection of ideas womenswear follows a more minimalistic approach. Rather than using so many bright colors, they are paired and toned down with more blacks and whites or used more wholly in ensembles. The focus of bold minimalism is taking the classics and putting new twists on them, whether that be “with bold color pops” or through “contemporary cuts” within the garment (Sara Maggioni, 2021). The main goal of supercharged simplicity in womenswear is the embracing of the old and making it new. This goes hand in hand with the increase of focus on sustainability, as the more that is considered classic or in season, the less new consumers will purchase.

            Both in menswear and womenswear, we see heavy emphasis placed on new colors and updated silhouettes. The definition of what is considered “classic” has evolved over time, and will continue to, especially with the continued increase of societal value in sustainability.