In recent years, the "Y2K" style of the early 2000s has been back in the spotlight, but the next new trend is said to be "indie sleaze." This style spread from the late 2000s to 2012, especially in London's street fashion, and is deeply rooted in music and subculture.
The term "Indie Sleaze" is a combination of indie rock and "Sleaze," which means "shady" or "vulgar." The background of this style is strongly influenced by the music scene at the time and the youth culture of London, but it is not clear who specifically coined the name. It probably started being used about three years ago, and the Instagram account "@indiesleaze" popularized the style.
Features of Indie Threes
This style is characterized by a vintage mix-and-match style influenced by 80s fashion and 90s grunge. It features unique and free combinations of vintage leather jackets, oversized tops, ripped tights, and skinny pants. Role models include Pete Doherty, the frontman of indie rock band The Libertines, model Kate Moss, as well as fashion icons of the time such as Agyness Deyn and Pixie Geldof.
Also of note is the influence of designers such as Henry Holland, Jeremy Scott and Hedi Slimane, whose designs are heavily influenced by the rebellious, casual aesthetic of indie sleaze.
Are indie sleaze really the next trend?
This style is gaining support, especially from Gen Z, on social media. It was introduced on TikTok and Instagram, and its popularity has spread mainly in the United States, and since the beginning of this year it has also been featured in major fashion magazines. However, despite the excitement on social media, some say that it is not yet seen very often on the streets. Some have even mocked it as a "fake trend," and how much it will actually take hold on the streets will depend on future developments.
The "indie sleaze" I felt at London Fashion Week
At London Fashion Week in September, we saw some outfits that were influenced by indie sleaze. Together with our reporter Leon, a Gen Z born and raised in London, we took a closer look at this movement. According to him, this style is said to have spread after the Lehman Shock in 2008. In opposition to the bright and energetic Y2K style, dark and grungy elements became more prominent and increased their presence on the streets.
The runny tights and leather jackets combined with skinny pants perfectly embodied the rebellious spirit of the time. It may seem a little elusive, but it's this free and individual fashion sense that's the appeal of Indie Threes.
