Avant Apocalypse: Where Dystopia Meets Fashion

Maximalism, grunge, and the looming specter of dystopia share a common thread in inspiring the trend known as “Avant Apocalypse.” Coined in a TikTok video by trend forecaster Mandy Lee (@oldloserinbrooklyn), this emerging style reimagines maximalism with a dystopian twist. Characterized by neutral tones, asymmetry, and unconventional garment styling, the trend transforms everyday clothing into high fashion reminiscent of sci-fi film attire.

While neutrals form the foundation of the Avant Apocalypse trend, splashes of color and mainstream fashion accessories such as sunglasses and headphones can inject vibrancy into the look. What sets this trend apart is its emphasis on deconstruction and the embrace of unconventional silhouettes. Despite the neutral palette, Avant Apocalypse is anything but basic, featuring holey shirts and draped fabric that adds a sense of avant-garde flair. Practicality takes a backseat in this style, as the focus lies in curating pieces to craft a somewhat fantastical portrayal of a dystopian near-future.

Avant Apocalypse draws inspiration from the aesthetic of grunge icon Rick Owens and the avant-garde designs of Maison Margiela. However, what sets this trend apart is its accessibility through DIY methods, achieved by layering and distressing pieces already in one’s wardrobe. Surprisingly, despite its distinctiveness, Avant Apocalypse leans towards sustainability. By utilizing repurposed old clothing and neutral basics, it actively counters the fast fashion culture and reduces textile waste. These pieces, versatile and timeless, can be reimagined and worn repeatedly without losing their innovative appeal. Moreover, basics and repurposed garments transcend fleeting trends, ensuring their longevity in one’s wardrobe beyond the trend’s peak.

The emergence of the Avant Apocalypse trend at this particular moment appears to be more than mere coincidence. Often, characters in science fiction films symbolize rebellion and the fight for justice. In our current reality, with widespread calls for change regarding the economy, climate, and racial injustice, coupled with inadequate responses from those in power, the world around us increasingly resembles the dystopian landscapes depicted in these movies. Additionally, the ongoing pandemic contributes to a sense of impending doom, creating an atmosphere that feels almost pre-apocalyptic.

Avant Apocalypse appears to defy the prevailing fear of a dystopian future by transforming it into something enjoyable and entertaining, at least temporarily. While achieving this look demands creativity and effort, its incorporation of elements from fictional scenarios into real life makes it undeniably captivating. Moreover, the trend’s emphasis on rethinking existing clothing and crafting something innovative resonates beyond fleeting fashion trends. It embodies a timeless principle of creativity and resourcefulness, inviting individuals to explore possibilities that extend beyond the confines of conventional fashion.