Summer 2014 Fashion Trends You Forgot About
Take a Stylish Trip Down Memory Lane
You probably remember the music blasting through your earbuds, the warm summer air, and those spontaneous moments that somehow defined your entire aesthetic back in 2014. What you wore during those days wasn’t just fabric stitched together—it was a symbol of identity, freedom, and vibes. While your current wardrobe might lean more neutral, minimal, or tailored, there’s a good chance you still hold a soft spot for a few 2014 gems.
In this nostalgic yet practical style guide, you’ll revisit the forgotten-but-not-gone summer 2014 fashion trends. These aren’t just fashion relics—they’re pieces of cultural memory that are quietly influencing today’s style revivals. And if you’re ready to shake things up a bit, you might just find a few trends worth wearing again.
Table of Contents
Why 2014 Style Still Matters in Today’s Fashion Scene
The Cycle of Trends: What Goes Around Comes Around
Fashion isn’t linear. It circles back, looping through decades and generations. And guess what? We’re right on track for a 2014 resurgence. According to Pinterest’s 2024 Trend Report, searches for “boho fringe” and “crop tops with high-waisted shorts” have increased by over 40% year-over-year.
Why? Because style is as much about emotion as it is about looks. Wearing something that reminds you of your younger, freer self sparks joy. And brands know it. Runways are already revisiting pastels, florals, and chunky accessories that scream 2014 style.
Millennials & Gen Z Nostalgia
Whether it’s the #TBT trend on Instagram or TikToks romanticizing the early 2010s, fashion nostalgia is huge. You might catch yourself scrolling through old pics and thinking, “Wait… that wasn’t a bad look.” You’re not alone. Gen Z is embracing what Millennials wore during their defining years, and in doing so, giving old trends a fresh twist.
Top 2014 Summer Fashion Trends That Deserve a Comeback
The Reign of High-Waisted Shorts
These shorts were everywhere. Worn with graphic tanks, bandeaus, or kimonos, they offered the perfect mix of comfort and style. Back then, distressed denim was the go-to. Today, you can modernize the look with a more tailored or pleated version.
- Pair with a structured blazer for a 2025 twist
- Add sneakers or flatforms for throwback vibes
- Look for sustainable, upcycled denim options
Boho-Chic Everything
You couldn’t attend a summer festival in 2014 without spotting fringe kimonos, feather accessories, and gladiator sandals. Inspired by music festivals like Coachella, this carefree aesthetic let your personality shine through layers and textures.
- Fringe kimonos over tank dresses
- Neutral-toned gladiator sandals
- Beaded bracelets, stacked rings
Crop Tops and Bralettes
If you were bold (or just hot), crop tops were your summer uniform. Whether fitted or boxy, they worked with almost anything.
- Style tip: Try a ribbed bralette under an open button-down
- Mix with wide-leg trousers or denim skirts
- Layer under mesh or crochet tops
Normcore & Minimalism
Normcore was the 2014 answer to flashy overkill. Plain white tees, mom jeans, and unbranded sneakers became fashion statements.
- Uniqlo basics were suddenly runway-worthy
- Think: Comfort-first pieces that fly under the radar
- Revisit this trend by blending minimalism with tailored shapes
Statement Necklaces & Chunky Accessories
Remember those oversized metallic bib necklaces? They added drama to any outfit, even a plain white tee.
- Tone it down with layered chains or chunky gold cuffs
- Pair with minimal tops for balance
- Choose pieces with natural stones or vintage charm
Floral Prints & Pastels
2014 loved soft, romantic patterns. Whether it was a pastel skater dress or a daisy print crop top, you felt light and bright just wearing it.
- Revisit this with maxi dresses or wide-leg pants
- Opt for botanical prints instead of cartoon-like florals
- Stick with lavender, mint, and blush for an updated palette
Forgotten Footwear Trends of 2014 Style
Platform Sandals & Flatforms
Chunky, loud, and surprisingly comfortable, flatforms gave you height without the pain.
- Modern brands like Vagabond and Dr. Martens are reviving the look
- Try pairing with midi skirts or culottes
- Look for cork soles or sporty straps
Converse with Dresses
It seemed weird at first—then it became iconic. Pairing Converse with sun dresses balanced tomboy and girly aesthetics.
- Recreate this look with floral midi dresses
- High-top versions offer a more updated edge
- Great for casual days when sandals won’t cut it
Accessories & Hairstyles That Screamed 2014
Flower Crowns
No music festival look was complete without one. Flower crowns were playful, boho, and photogenic.
- Today’s version? Minimalist headbands or dried flower clips
- Great for themed parties, photo shoots, or weddings
Snapbacks & Beanies in Summer
Wearing a beanie in July? It made no sense, but you did it anyway. Snapbacks also had a streetwear moment.
- Update with bucket hats or dad caps
- Use as statement pieces in an otherwise neutral look
Ombre & Dip-Dye Hair
Dip-dye and ombre were everywhere—on Tumblr, Pinterest, and your best friend’s head.
- Modern versions use balayage techniques
- Focus on earthy tones like caramel, copper, and rose gold
- Try it temporarily with color-depositing conditioners
2014 Style Icons: Who Defined the Look?
| Celebrity/Influencer | Iconic 2014 Style Element | Modern Equivalent Inspiration |
|---|---|---|
| Vanessa Hudgens | Boho queen, fringe and florals | Coachella revival styles |
| Rihanna | Normcore-meets-streetwear chic | Oversized fashion, bold prints |
| Kylie Jenner | Bold lips, crop tops, matching sets | Influencer branding today |
| Harry Styles | Slim jeans, ankle boots, printed shirts | Gender-fluid retro fashion |
Take cues from these icons to blend 2014 with current styles seamlessly.
How to Bring Back 2014 Style in a Modern Way
Pair 2014 Staples with Modern Cuts
Give your old favorites a second chance by styling them with today’s must-haves.
- High-waisted shorts + structured blazers
- Crop tops + high-rise wide-leg pants
- Gladiator sandals + midi wrap dresses
Update Color Palettes
2014 was loud; 2025 is earthy. That doesn’t mean ditching the fun, but softening it.
- Swap neons for terracotta, moss green, and clay
- Choose warm-toned pastels instead of icy shades
Incorporate Subtle Accessories
Over-the-top bib necklaces are out; layered, dainty pieces are in.
- Try stacking minimalist rings or thin gold chains
- Opt for resin clips or subtle scrunchies in your hair
DIY Recipes for 2014-Inspired Fashion-Forward Looks
| DIY Project | Ingredients/Items Needed | Instructions |
| Fringe Kimono | Old scarf, scissors | Cut strips along edges and knot loosely |
| Ombre Bleach T-shirt | Cotton shirt, bleach, water, spray bottle | Spray lower half, let sit, rinse |
| DIY Lip Tint | Beetroot powder, coconut oil, shea butter | Mix and heat, pour into small container |
FAQ – Everything You Forgot About 2014 Style
What are the most iconic 2014 style trends?
Think high-waisted denim shorts, boho accessories, crop tops, flower crowns, and normcore staples like white sneakers and plain tees.
Are 2014 summer fashion trends coming back?
Absolutely. Runways, influencers, and retail stores are all hinting at a full-circle fashion moment.
How do I modernize my 2014 wardrobe pieces?
Pair them with more current silhouettes, tone down color schemes, and add sleek accessories.
Is it okay to wear 2014-inspired outfits in 2025?
Of course! Fashion is about expression. The key is to blend the old with the new.
Conclusion: Nostalgia Never Goes Out of Style
Trends may fade, but the feelings they invoke stick with you. Wearing 2014-inspired fashion isn’t about clinging to the past it’s about celebrating how far you’ve come while honoring your roots. You don’t need to overhaul your entire closet. Just revive a few key pieces and wear them with pride.
So go ahead open that old drawer, dust off those platform sandals, and relive the best parts of your 2014 style. Your updated summer wardrobe (and inner 20-something) will thank you.
