Recently, it seems like more and more people are swapping out their traditional bottoms for a bold and unconventional style, pantless. While we’ve been keeping an eye on this trend for months, it’s clear that it’s gaining widespread popularity, even as winter approaches.
Surprisingly, this daring fashion choice is not just limited to celebrities known for their attention-grabbing outfits—it’s now making its way from the runway to the streets.
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The Origins of the Pantless Trend.
This pantless trend has roots that stretch back to the 1950s, originating as dancewear that aimed to create a more elegant line for performers. Dancers would often wear leotards over tights, sometimes layering with shirts or sweaters and belting them to accentuate their waistlines.
Over time, the look became associated with iconic figures like Edie Sedgwick, a socialite and muse to Andy Warhol.
Revival Through the Decades.
The pantless trend experienced a resurgence in the 1980s during the aerobics craze, with high-cut leotards and belts becoming fashionable in the athletic scene. In the ’90s and early 2000s, renowned fashion houses like Chanel, Alexander McQueen, Jean Paul Gaultier, Christian Dior, and Miu Miu all embraced the no-pants look on their runways.
Modern Resurgence.
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While the trend was once linked to athletic wear, it evolved in 2022 when Kendall Jenner stepped out in a bold ensemble from Bottega Veneta’s spring 2023 collection. This marked a shift, as other designers like Valentino, Victoria Beckham, Raf Simons, Maison Margiela, LaQuan Smith, and Miu Miu incorporated pantlessness into their collections. The trend gained further momentum as celebrities, including Emma Corrin, Adwoa Aboah, Cara Delevingne, Jodie Turner-Smith, Rachel Zegler, Lori Harvey, and stylist Law Roach, embraced and showcased it at various events.
A Global Fashion Phenomenon.
Notably, the trend has transcended the realm of high fashion and entered the mainstream, with appearances on reality shows like Real Housewives and events like Bravocon 2023. Celebrity stylist Amanda Lim sees the trend as a recycling of old styles, expressing admiration for the confidence and power it projects. She believes it offers individuals a safe space to take control of their image, empowering and inspiring others in the process.
Cultural Significance and Personal Freedom.
Stylist Law Roach, who personally embraced the trend, sees it as carrying inherent cultural significance. He believes the look allows individuals to put a new spin on something traditionally symbolic, representing a personal journey towards freedom and self-expression. While acknowledging that he wouldn’t have adopted the look earlier, he emphasizes the recent shift in his mindset and the importance of feeling free in one’s fashion choices.
Conclusion
As the pantless trend continues to gain traction, it serves as a fascinating blend of retro inspiration and modern self-expression. From its humble dancewear beginnings to its recent appearances on the red carpet and reality TV, this fashion phenomenon has become a symbol of confidence, empowerment, and a fresh take on traditional styles.