The Rise of Humor in Fashion

Fashion has taken a turn towards the whimsical, and it’s no laughing matter. In a year where seriousness often prevails, the most coveted styles are unexpectedly humorous, challenging traditional norms and inviting a sense of playfulness into our wardrobes.

Gone are the days when quiet luxury reigned supreme. While think pieces and trend forecasts championed the virtues of Loro Piana coats and cream-colored cashmere, the reality tells a different story. According to fashion search engine Lyst’s Q3 index, brands like Miu Miu and Loewe, known for their playful and subversive designs, are leading the charge in cultural relevance. Miuccia Prada’s youthful diffusion line, Miu Miu, has notably risen to the top, defying industry expectations with its cheeky runway shows and unconventional designs.

Levity Issue: Fashion Gets Funny The spring/summer 2024 collection from Miu Miu showcased at Paris Fashion Week. GETTY IMAGES/ INSTYLE

In a similar vein, other brands have embraced humor as a central theme in their collections. From “ugly” shoes to purses resembling sleeping bags, fashion is speaking volumes with its lighthearted approach. This shift towards humor isn’t new; it began online during the slow return to normalcy following the lockdowns of 2020. Brands like Praying and Puppets & Puppets gained traction by embracing irony and surrealism, offering designs that resonated with consumers seeking a playful escape from reality.

Even industry stalwarts have joined the fray, infusing their designs with a sense of whimsy. From Colin Locascio’s whimsical Oscars after-party dress to Marc Jacobs’s eccentric line, Heaven, fashion is embracing the weird and wonderful like never before.

Levity Issue: Fashion Gets Funny The spring/summer 2024 collection from Loewe showcased at Paris Fashion Week. GETTY IMAGES/ INSTYLE

J.W. Anderson’s Loewe exemplifies how humor can elevate luxury fashion. Their recent runway show featured impeccably crafted garments with off-kilter silhouettes, eliciting smiles from even the most serious fashion enthusiasts.

And then there’s Schiaparelli, whose surrealist sensibility has redefined red-carpet fashion. With designs that border on the absurd, Schiaparelli delights in confusing and surprising its audience, earning both admiration and amusement.

In today’s world, where TikTok nihilism and economic uncertainty loom large, fashion serves as a source of joy and self-expression. Clothes that embrace the absurdity of modern life offer a much-needed respite from the seriousness of the times.

So, next time you’re shopping for a new outfit, don’t be afraid to choose something that makes you smile. Whether it’s a cookie-shaped purse or a comically oversized sweater, fashion is at its best when it doesn’t take itself too seriously.