Early 2010s Men’s Fashion: Cringe or Classic?

Fashion trends tend to cycle through waves of popularity, ridicule, and nostalgia. The early 2010s were no exception, especially when it came to men’s fashion. From snapbacks to skinny jeans, it was a time of bold (and sometimes questionable) style choices. But how does it compare to today’s fashion? Reddit had plenty to say about it.

All Fashion Looks Ridiculous a Decade Later

One commenter pointed out an undeniable truth: “All fashion looks ridiculous about a decade later.” Trends that once felt fresh and stylish eventually become outdated, only to be resurrected years later as ‘retro cool.’

Replies:

• “I mean, not the 90s, right?”
• “Stuff seems ridiculous a decade later, but then two or more decades later, it just seems nostalgic or retro-trendy again.”
• “Life Pro Tip: Start dressing in 90s fashion in the 90s and never stop.”

So, is early 2010s fashion just waiting for its comeback moment?

Helmet Hair vs. Broccoli Hair: A Battle of Bad Trends?

Many recall the infamous early 2010s “helmet hair” — that Justin Bieber-inspired swoop that required meticulous styling. But is it really worse than today’s “broccoli hair” (aka the permed, fluffy curls so many Gen Z guys are rocking)?

Replies:

• “Difference is your hair hardly mattered then because it was covered 24/7 by a backwards snapback.”
• “Helmet hair vs. Broccoli hair is a hard one honestly. I can’t justify getting a perm just to have broccoli hair.”

Was Early 2010s Fashion Better Than Mid/Late 2010s?

Not everyone agrees that early 2010s fashion was terrible. Some actually preferred its ‘corny’ but vibrant energy over the more muted trends that followed in the mid-2010s.

Replies:

• “Yes, I prefer the early 2010s. It had that 80s revival vibe more than the later part of the decade.”
• “I loved fashion when I was little, but by the time I got into it, everything felt so boring. The 2020s feel more exciting now.”

The Rise of Individuality in Fashion

One of the biggest changes in men’s fashion is the shift from brand-dominated trends to a more individualistic approach. The early 2010s were all about fitting in (snapbacks, sagging pants, branded graphic tees), whereas today, fashion feels more personal.

Replies:

• “Back then, brands still ruled fashion. Now, underground/thrift clothing seems more popular.”
• “Early 2010s was a time of massive conformity for teenage dudes. Now, individuality is more accepted.”
• “I remember we bullied a kid for not sagging his pants, saying it must be because he was too poor to afford Calvin Kleins or Supreme. Wild times.”

Men’s Fashion: Then vs. Now

While mainstream fashion might still feel bland for the average guy, there’s no denying that men today have more freedom to express themselves through clothing. One commenter noted the shift in acceptance, particularly in the rise of accessories and gender-fluid fashion elements.

Replies:

• “In real life, everyday men’s fashion is still boring, but at least now, there’s more room for expression.”
• “I’ve noticed guys dressing cleaner and even wearing pearl necklaces since 2020. It feels like men have more freedom now.”

Final Thoughts: Cringe or Classic?

So, was early 2010s men’s fashion a disaster, or are we just in that awkward phase where it still feels too recent to be nostalgic? One thing is for sure: Give it another 10 years, and we might all be rocking snapbacks, plaid shirts, and ripped skinny jeans again like it never went out of style.

Source: Reddit

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