Pop culture – the term we use to cover everything from music and films to social media and all that celebrities are getting up to – is a powerful force that influences all, including fashion! While Australia has always had its unique local outfit styles, one cannot deny the effect of pop culture on the fashions of the Land Down Under. With that in mind, join us as we take a look at the fashion landscape of 2024, and what our favourite pop culture shops have to do with it.
The Pop Culture Influences on Australian Fashion
We’ve opened this article by claiming that pop culture influences fashion – but what are these influences? That’s a good question, so we’ve broken them down into ten categories, starting from what we think are the most influential. Let us know if you agree with them!
Celebrity-Inspired Fashion Trends 2024
We all know and love our favourite Aussie celebrities, and their choice of outfits leaves a definite impact on pop culture fashion. For instance, the Hemsworth brothers have a laid-back and casual look that’s immediately associated with Australia, while Nicole Kidman and Cate Blanchett go for understated elegance and sophistication on the red carpet and in day-to-day life. Then there are Australian musical icons such as AC/DC and Kylie Minogue, who have left an indelible mark on fashion across the globe.
Streetwear and Casual Vibes
Streetwear remains as strong as ever in 2024, and just as well, considering that Australian fashion is all about relaxed and casual vibes. Loose-fit shirts with bold patterns, baggy pants, denim shorts, hoodies, we’re all for hip-hop and skate culture influences. We’ll always recommend going local with brands like Double Rainbouu and Song for the Mute for the best and latest in Aussie design, as well as global giants such as Supreme and Carhartt.
The 90s and 2000s Retro Fashion Comeback
Mark Twain once wrote that history doesn’t repeat itself, but it often rhymes, and that maxim fits perfectly with the world of pop culture fashion. 90s and Y2K are back, as social media and TikTok, combined with regular TV and movie franchise reboots, remind us of a perhaps simpler – but definitely more comfortable – time. The fashion influencers are definitely having fun with their cargo pants, baggy jeans, dad-style sneakers, platform shoes, and chokers that’s for sure!
Sustainable and Ethical Fashion
We’ve mentioned the return of fashions from 20, if not 30, years ago, and while this is indeed due to nostalgia, sustainability is another reason behind it. Young shoppers are thrifting to find cool vintage additions to their wardrobes, as this helps the planet as well as saves money. This is paired with the want for fashion made using sustainable materials such as organic cotton, linen, bamboo, and recycled materials. Australian brands like Aere, Madre Natura, and Bondi Born are already riding this wave, especially as more pop culture starts focusing on the need to take care of the environment in the face of global warming and the climate crisis.
Bold and Expressive Accessories
Accessories have always been a key element in Australian street style, and they remain firmly as such in 2024. After all, sunglasses and hats are essential if one wants to be out and about in the Australian style, and they look stylish to boot. Speaking of sunglasses, the current trend is oversized frames in chunky 70’s aviator styles, as well as massive hangover frames. Speaking of chunky, that’s also the current trend in jewelry with chain bracelets and layered bracelets. Your choice of accessories will truly enhance your outfits, turning something basic into nothing less than a unique and trendy statement!
Tech and Futuristic Influences
While we’ve mentioned how Australian pop culture and fashion have been looking backwards in 2024, that doesn’t mean they don’t have the future in view! Fashion technology is a segment of the industry that is working on innovative solutions in the design and manufacture of fashion items. Think LED lighting and digital prints on fabrics, or the use of futuristic 3D printed materials. Then there is a whole other pop culture fashion segment in wearable technology. Smartwatches and fitness bands had a humble start, but nowadays wearing an Apple Watch or a device of its ilk makes a fashion statement in and of itself when paired with a stylish outfit, never mind its utility as an actual piece of consumer technology!
Pop Culture Events and Festivals
Festivals and other pop culture events are not only great fun, but they’re also an excellent excuse to both show off your fashions and get inspired for your next look. At the time of writing Australia is in full festival season, with events such as Split Milk House Party, 4E Sydney Hip Hop Fest, and Meredith Music Festivals being among the highlights of a summer that should satisfy all tastes. There are also some great conventions, including Supanova Comic Con & Gaming Expo and Oz Comic-Con, where you can take a look at not only the latest fashions but also the best and greatest in cosplay and concert looks. Australian festival culture is, as one might expect, heavily influenced by the international scene, so expect bold flowery prints, ethnic patterns, and fringes as you visit any of Australia’s top concerts and events.
Gender-Neutral and Inclusive Fashion
Is the future of fashion unisex? We can’t tell as yet, but pop culture is trending towards embracing gender neutrality and inclusive fashion. Look at Australia’s own Ruby Ruse, who continues to set trends with gender-fluid fashions that combine tailor suits, leather jackets, and statement accessories. Then there are the likes of Australian Stitch, who makes high-quality basics such as crewneck sweatshirts, t-shirts, singlets, and A-line mini skirts locally, or Melbourne-based label Monphell, which brings colourful outfits while following a “bound to no age, sex, or season” philosophy.
Athleisure and Comfort-First Fashion
We Australians love being both active and comfortable, which is why the athleisure trend was such a hit with us as soon as it first emerged back in 2017-2018. This combination of athletic and casual styles brings together activewear such as sports bras and leggings and more stylish items like oversized blouses or summer skirts. Pair such an outfit with great-looking yet practical accessories of the rucksack and sunglasses variety, and you will have the makings of a look that both looks and feels fantastic. This pairing of style and comfort is what keeps athleisure trending in 2024, especially as influencers continue to hit social media with selfies in outfits such as cool jogging suits and flared leggings.
Embrace the Trends of 2025!
There’s never been a better time to follow the trends of pop culture fashion than 2024! This year brings Australia a great variety of outfits and looks to dress up in, be it the streetwear and casual outfits we’re already best known for, retro fashions from the 90s and Y2K years, comfortable athleisure, and more futuristic items inspired by the latest in technology.
There are great shops where you can do your pop culture fashion shopping, in particular our favourite, Zing Pop Culture. Also keep an eye on the Australian fashion brands and designers we’ve mentioned in this piece! Have fun experimenting with all the different styles, but never forget to use your personal tastes – after all, fashion is all about individuality!
FAQs
What are the biggest pop culture fashion trends in Australia for 2024?
Some of the top Australian fashion trends for 2024 include streetwear, retro 90s and 2000s styles, bold accessories, sustainable fashion, and tech-inspired outfits.
How will pop culture influence fashion in Australia in 2024?
Pop culture is shaping fashion trends in 2024 through celebrities, social media, and events, introducing bold, creative, and nostalgic styles as it does.
Where is the best Pop Culture Shop in Australia to buy your outfits?
Australia’s best pop culture shop is Zing Pop Culture. There is also the LEON Bet Games page, where you can discover exciting games based on pop culture today.
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