This trend (if you can even call it that) has been brewing for a while, across every corner of culture. We partly have Gen Z to thank, what with their messy, borderless approach to taking inspiration from myriad subcultures and nostalgic references, as well as their unwavering love for baggy clothing. Over the past years, that aesthetic has grown up with them. The teenage skater slob has transformed into a sophisticated slacker, the kind of person who pairs an It Bag with beaten up trainers, or an old tee with a incongruous statement skirt.
But of course, Big Fashion has a role to play too. Who can forget the frazzled English woman aesthetic of 2024, epitomised by Miu Miu models carrying overstuffed bags down runways with shirts tucked into their knickers? “The undone look is inspired by the 1990s and indie sleaze 2010s,” explains trend forecaster Flo Palmer. “We first spotted on the runway in SS24, most notably by Miu Miu – not just in fashion but it beauty and hair too. Since then, every season has further solidified this movement away from clean girl perfection to intentional chaos.”
Indeed, the now-infamous clean girl plays an important role in the evolution of the anti-fashion movement. She served her purpose, but in 2026, we’re all itching for something a little less restrictive. “Consumers are fed up of seeing quiet luxury and clean girl aesthetics, especially as the more ‘minimalist’ fashion trends have become so heavily duplicated on the high-street,” says Palmer. “Although some great trends came out of that era, the market is desperate for some personality and craft.”
The beauty of the anti-fashion, however, lies in the fact that you don’t have to wear the whackiest outfit to pledge your allegiance. It’s about doing the most with minimum effort, and as Palmer explains, that ethos can be applied to literally any style. “There is such a range of aesthetics and inspirations being drawn upon [this season] – Western, boho chic and grunge,” she says. “It’s about adding anything to your wardrobe that feels unique to you.” So, if you’re the kind of person who lives in a white tee, simply make it baggier, more relaxed and pair it with items that match that energy. Can’t live without your favourite autumn trench coat? Try layering it over unexpected jacket-jumper combos. Can’t resist a bold print? Wear two at the same time! Anti-fashion means no rules. Finally, it’s time to dress like yourself.