Out with the old, in with the bold. Step away from the mainstream mania, eccentric fashion is beginning to receive the attention it deserves. Haven’t you heard? Unconventional and quirky are back in style this spring. I hope everyone’s been pinning their favorite outfit inspo on Pinterest, your time to shine is just about here.
Perhaps this whimsical method of dress is purely unfamiliar and, to put it quite bluntly: weird. As the world steadily becomes more reliant on the mindless scrolls through trending TikToks and addictive “Outfit of the Day” reels, it’s easy to fall victim of this mainstream hysteria where we shop the same looks, succumbing to the overused and worn-out clothing trends.
Sophomore Cassidy Neihaus agreed that these pieces are not only overdone, but also sustainably unethical.
“So many products we see in the media have a short lifespan, and then we move onto the next popular piece,” she said.
Neihaus believes it’s possible to incorporate the simple pieces we find and add our own personal flair to each outfit we create.
“I’ve had fun with my own style by combining my favorite buys with more classic and timeless pieces, making a good blend,” she said.
Even more, nowadays it is so easy to compare ourselves to the next person we see on our feed. It’s no wonder we struggle to step out of our comfort zone and dress for ourselves without thinking about anyone else. Please don’t fall to this standard. I am here to help.
Eccentric fashion refers to an individualistic approach to daily fashion, expressing creativity and attempting to take unique precedence over mainstream trends. We may see various patterns, combinations of colors, and beautifully whimsical silhouettes. But oh, honey, it does not stop at the items of clothing but grows stronger with powerful and dramatic accessories.
Neihaus described eccentric fashion to be the catalyst for pushing boundaries when it comes to conventional standards of beauty, gender and style.
“Unconventional fashion truly shows that anything made with a vision, passion and appreciation of art can be made beautiful, unlike the message in so much of modern-day media,” she said.
In a modern society, where identity seems dictated by surrounding pressures most days, dressing for joy can become a quiet act of rebellion. It’s hard to lean into this change of pace, expressing a reformed style that may stand out, but these pieces can transform your basic style to something uniquely yours. The possibilities are limitless. Below are a handful of pieces to inspire you. Let’s get started.
Beautifully Babydoll: I can’t get enough of the loose, flowy silhouette that encapsulates the wonderful bounce of a babydoll top. The lace trimmed details, flutter short sleeves and cut short waistline fits the playful and feminine ensemble.
Fabulous Flats: Take a step up from last year’s trend. Try a sparkly finish. A ballet flat embellished in rhinestones and sparkles is the ultimate game-changer.
Western-Style Pants: Before you judge this one, I don’t mean cowboy pants with fringes. Specifically, the pant is a wide-leg, mid-waist, vintage print with a casual wear. Shop Mifulan for the widest variety of premium vintage pants I’ve ever witnessed. From simple stripes to a paisley print, this online shop has it all.
The Floral Fandom: a reoccurring staple blooming with new variations each year. Search Free People’s “Wildest Dreams Tunic” blouse for the adorable lightweight fabric and feminine trim.
Chunky Charms: A statement piece. The substantial charm necklace, adorned with various gold pendants and stones is a must-have from your local Madewell or Anthropology.
Striped Trousers: Add a touch of pattern to your wardrobe with a simple linen striped pant. These trousers easily depend on the context of how they are styled to be considered eccentric, but this versatile choice is a baseline to any stand-out outfit.
Boho Beauty: Easily one of the best categories to explore when looking to refresh your style and add a unique twist. Specifically, the effortless midi lace skirt is undeniably darling. Try the flowy fit of Lulu’s “Exceptionally Graceful Cream Lace High-Rise Tiered Midi Skirt.”
Maxi Printed Skirt: Add some spice to your basic maxi skirt from Brandy Melville. Crafted in a floaty crinkle chiffon and designed with watercolor print, the For Love and Lemons’ “Abby Maxi Skirt” is the one for you.
Patterned Dress: Elevate your maxi dress collection as we dive into spring fashion. Bohemian wardrobe is fabulous inspiration for unique patchwork, with intricate detailing and untouched designs. From floral to plaid, striped to animal print, find a fun change of pace that works best for you.
