Models have always been some of the world's most stylish beings. It makes sense, given that they're always surrounded by the latest designs and trends. They're privy to what's to come in fashion before anyone else and they work closely with designers and stylists, and it shows.
It was the '90s when supermodels really became superstars, and started influencing how everyone dressed. With the prominence of Instagram and street style, that's become even more of the case in recent years, and it's hard to ignore the similarities among the trends that It girls of today like Kaia Gerber and Elsa Hosk wear compared to It girls of the past, like Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss. We just studied tons of outfits worn by models now and then and spotted seven classic trends that have stood the test of time. See how they wore them over the span of time and shop them for your own wardrobe below.
Graphic T-Shirts
Sure, plain white T-shirts will always be the most popular style, but graphic tees—especially logo and concert ones—have proven to have longevity over the decades, and wearing one is an easy way to add some personality while staying comfortable.
On Tyra Banks: Calvin Klein T-shirt
On Kendall Jenner: Each x Other Amanda Wall Charity Collaboration Tokyo T-Shirt ($99); Staud Tommy Bag ($250)
Straight-Leg Jeans
Denim trends quickly come and go, but straight-leg jeans are always cool and safe. The most model-off-duty way to wear them is with a white top and flats.
WHO: Amber Valletta
On Emily Ratajkowski: Orseund Iris Le Club Top ($330); Nike Cortez Sneakers ($70)
Loafers
Models spend a lot of time in heels for work, so it's not surprising that they want to give their feet a break sometimes, and their #1 shoe style to do that with (after sneakers, of course) is loafers.
On Cindy Crawford: Gucci loafers
WHO: Adwoa Aboah
Floral-Print Midi Dresses
Without fail, every spring and summer brands put tons of new floral-print midi dresses on the market because they're wildly popular, year after year. Just look at how pretty these models look in them, even decades apart.
WHO: Helena Christensen
WHO: Elsa Hosk
Cardigans
Yes, cardigans are certainly a trend now, but if you think about it, when were they ever not chic or not cool? They're safe, classic, and versatile, no matter the year.
WHO: Christy Turlington
On Bella Hadid: HVN cardigan; O-Might top; Ralph Lauren bag; I.Am.Gia pants; Maison Margiela sneakers
Leather Blazers
Leather moto jackets and bomber jackets are great, but they don't come close to providing the sophisticated polish that leather blazers do—even with something as casual as Kaia Gerber's jeans and sneakers.
WHO: Naomi Campbell
On Kaia Gerber: Nour Hammour jacket; Saint Laurent Monogram All Over Canvas Satchel Bag ($1790); Converse Chuck Taylor High Top Sneakers ($55)
Suits
Models have an uncanny ability to dress suits up and down, proving their versatility. This probably has a lot to do with why this outfit trend has such longevity. We love the way Kate Moss and Gigi Hadid style theirs.
On Gigi Hadid: Berluti trench, suit, and sneakers; Jacquemus Black Le Chiquito Clutch ($495)
On Kate Moss: Adidas sneakers
Shop the matching Loose Tapered Linen Blend Trousers ($129).
Next up, how to wear nine trend-proof items you already own.
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