8th Grade Style Redux: What We Can’t Wait to Wear Again

The Way Back: Our 8th Grade Style Redux

Some people rely on nostalgic scents to teleport back to their youth. For us? Bring out our 8th grade kicks and drive us to the dance. They say you can’t go home again, but happiness is re-acquiring the beloved garments of years past. Cyclical fashion has brought many of our former fashion loves back to the “in” crowd.

Old School Kicks

Case in point: Adidas (raise your hand if you, too, heard on the bus the acronym was All Day I Dream About Sex). From the Stan Smith’s newfound ubiquity (OG white with green trim only, please) to the All-Star’s reemergence (remember Run D.M.C.’s sales boost in song form?), Adidas is a sentimental favorite. Want a modern take with less logo? Nod to the look with this low-key chic court sneaker.

Timeless Romance

When a couples’ skate became our #1 journal wish, we turned to romantic stylemakers Laura Ashley and Gunne Sax. While Gunne Sax is gone (RIP) and Laura Ashley is caught in British bankruptcy, there’s a thriving resale stock on Etsy with a trove of wears. Currently, we are enjoying purchases like this charming jacket and this floral skirt. And modern romance continues with brands like Madewell, Sezane, Ulla Johnson, Doen and Rebecca Taylor, who pull inspo from these designers on the reg. 

Surf’s Up

Did we grow up in La Jolla? Nope. Did that stop us from sporting splashy surfwear? It did not—we had everything but the board. Our beloved Vans (which we defaced with writing, to our parents’ dismay) are back in a big way, and we still favor the classic checkered pair thankyouverymuch. Meanwhile, Quicksilver and Stussy have staying power, and even Gotcha relaunched—though it seems it lost some outsider edge. OP has seen Urban Outfitters revival, but we like to surf (so to speak) Etsy for their colorful corduroy shorts like these. Or hit up the men’s section for a long sleeve tee to pair with unexpected pieces like a skirt and heel. Stoka boka: Surf style is here to stay.