In this forever-changing and shifting world of microtrends and internet fads, one style will always remain– timeless elegance. With timeless style, we see minimalism and elegance intertwine to create a style that has no time frame. To help build the realm of timeless style some icons help inspire this form of fashion. Every day wearable pieces of clothing we keep in our wardrobe help create that timeless effect.  

While taking a look into timeless fashion, classic pieces of clothing can be the first thing to come to mind. Most people have at least one article of clothing in their closets that they could have forever. A popular example is a simple black blazer that can go with anything, from a professional at-the-office outfit to a casual outfit you want to dress up a little. The blazer trend dates back to the 1800s and was one of the most common clothing items owned by men. In the 1960s and 1970s, women became inspired by the blazer trend and wore them as a sign of rebellion from the British Mod movement.  

The trench coat is similar to the blazer as it holds a deep history and remains a part of many closets. The trench coat dates back to the 1820s and was used as a military uniform. Now, when we see a trench coat, it is a sign of sophistication and an elegant form of fashion. Trench coats reached their peak in fashion in the 1960s, when they were worn both for everyday outfits and formal occasions. Although they had their moment in the spotlight, their functionality has never died down.

One of the most iconic and popular examples of timeless elegance is the “little black dress.” This piece is so timeless it has its own acronym, the “LBD,” and many would argue this is the piece that sparked the idea of timeless style. When we think of a timeless silhouette, the “LBD” comes 

to mind. This dress and saying was made popular by none other than Audrey Hepburn, a style icon many are still inspired by to this day. 

Coco Chanel is a timeless fashion icon. With her simple, yet truly elegant designs, Chanel helped pave the way for never-ending simple yet elegant designs on the runway. Her pieces also made their way into everyday outfits and by incorporating her designs in their wardrobes, women began elevating their everyday looks. To this day, Chanel is leading the movement of timeless classics on the runway and red carpet, whether in classic tweeds or Barbie pink.

Another icon in classic style is Diana, Princess of Wales, who pioneered timeless elegance throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s. Compared to icons in the past, Diana was much more relaxed in her style choices. Her outfits were uniquely influenced by the decade present through silhouette or color choices but this made her outfits all the more exciting. Even now, decades later, people still gather style inspiration from Diana, whether it is her timeless cuts of jeans, billowy button-down shirts, or iconic crewnecks and sweaters.

Taking minimalism and combining it with the timeless fashion concept we realize they work hand in hand. The concept of minimalism is embracing quality over quantity. When choosing the quality of a piece, you’re also thinking about how long it will be in style and how will the material hold throughout the years. 

Classic styles are wardrobe staples that will stand the test of time, while still allowing us to express our unique fashion sensibilities. 

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Hi! I’m Annie Gleydura, A Magazine’s editor-in-chief. My staff and I are committed to bringing you the most important and entertaining news from the realms of fashion, beauty and culture. We are full-time students and hard-working journalists. While we get support from the student media fee and earned revenue such as advertising, both of those continue to decline. Your generous gift of any amount will help enhance our student experience as we grow into working professionals. Please go here to donate to A Magazine.