From Trends to Timeless

 Fashion trends are defined as specific looks or expressions that spread across a population at a particular 
time and place. To truly grasp how trends form and evolve, we must look into their historical roots and their 
influence on art and fashion. This discussion aims to explore how these trends, adopted throughout history, 
transform into timeless elements of style.

 For an item to be classified as timeless, it must transcend years and seasons. This longevity is often a result 
of exceptional quality and craftsmanship. As fast fashion and overconsumption have led to a decline in 
product quality, many fashion enthusiasts have turned to alternative shopping habits such as thrifting. This 
rise in thrift and vintage shopping highlights the allure of timelessness and exclusivity. However, not all 
vintage pieces achieve timeless status. What makes a vintage piece truly timeless is its history—the 
character and narrative it has accumulated over years of use. This underscores the importance of history in 
defining timeless fashion.

 Trends can be categorised into micro trends, macro trends, and timeless trends. Micro trends are highly 
specific, emerging rapidly and fading quickly, such as dad sandals, checkerboard prints, and chunky plastic 
rings. Macro trends, on the other hand, are broader, reflecting cultural shifts and lasting a few years, like the 
rise of loungewear during the COVID-19 pandemic. Timeless trends remain relevant for decades and are 
considered investment pieces, including the little black dress, the white shirt, denim jeans, and the trench 
coat. These trends can originate from the lower classes and rise to prominence through designers, known 
as trickle-up, or start on the runway and cascade down to fast fashion, known as trickle-down. For 
example, jeans, initially worn by the working class and popularised by James Dean in Rebel Without a 
Cause (1955), became a symbol of youthful rebellion and a timeless wardrobe staple. Similarly, the three
piece suit, popularised by King George III, illustrates the trickle-down effect in fashion.

 The concept of 'timeless' varies from person to person. Those interested in fashion often embark on a 
journey to discover their own signature style. Once a personal style is defined, individuals gain insight into 
what works best for them and what will remain a staple in their wardrobe. Key considerations include fabric 
choices, preferred fits, and the frequency of wear. Investing in timeless fashion enhances product longevity, 
supports sustainability, reduces overconsumption, and encourages consumers to prioritise quality over fast 
fashion.

 Fashion trends often reflect societal issues. Anne Hollander, in her book Seeing Through Clothes, and other 
fashion historians note that fashion serves as a form of resistance against dominant cultural norms. For 
instance, during World War II, lower middle-class youth wore khaki pants as a statement against the war. 
This trend was later embraced by major designers like Balmain, Marc Jacobs, Lanvin, and Burberry, who 
incorporated military-inspired elements into their collections. Tactical Wolves also explores military 
influences in their designs. French philosopher Henri Bergson observed that "Fashion is all about the here 
and now," which aligns with the emergence of khaki pants as a response to contemporary issues.

 The journey from fleeting trends to timeless fashion is a fascinating reflection of cultural shifts, individual 
expression, and enduring quality. While trends may come and go, the essence of timeless pieces lies in 
their ability to resonate across eras and embody the values and narratives of their time. By understanding 
the interplay between history, personal style, and craftsmanship, we can better appreciate the enduring 
appeal of timeless fashion and make more conscious choices in our own wardrobes. In a world where fast 
fashion dominates, embracing timeless style offers a way to celebrate both the past and the future, 
ensuring that what we wear remains meaningful and enduring.


Safak Bekiroglu 
Creative Director of Tactical Wolves