The Return Of Indie Sleaze, And What It Means For Your Wardrobe

Hard to believe, but the slogan t-shirt was a bonafide wardrobe basic. Whether they were emblazoned with just causes or just because, slogan tees were styled back with… just about anything, really. Keep the rest of your outfit simple if you’re cautiously branching out from your beloved white t-shirt.

While the chapter’s closed on American Apparel, there’s no denying the staple status their metallic leggings held in the zeitgeist. According to the indie sleaze annals, leggings are pants – team yours with a cropped tee or top to lean unapologetically into the look. 

You thought they were dead, but really this cut was just sleeping ‘til noon. Skinny jeans were THE fit to be seen in – such was their stronghold that you forgot other jeans even existed. For the guys, dark drainpipe denim reigned supreme – team with a Chelsea boot if you want to go the extra mile. 

Name a more iconic duo. This look was championed by everyone from The O.C.-era Mischa Barton to Alexa Chung, and can likely be recreated with what’s already in your wardrobe (if you dig).

Whether you choose to shop pre-loved or new, the goal remains the same: lightweight, textured and the more eye-watering the pattern, the better.  

The higher the heel, the closer to… Mark Hunter? Sam Ronson? Who knows. One thing we do know? If you weren’t wearing ballet flats or high-top Converse, you were in a pair of platform heels. Whether they were acid-bright party pumps or lace-up ankle boots, you clomped out the door with pride.

Dressing like you rolled out of bed was du jour, with lace camis, babydolls and slips all on display. Today’s styling notes are a little more polished, with lingerie-inspired pieces easily layered beneath a knit, oversized blazer or leather jacket.

Indie sleaze’s obsession with accessories knows no bounds. Long layered necklaces, skinny ties and even skinnier scarves were slung loosely around the neck, while smudged eyeliner and a slouchy beanie were year-round staples.

While *really* not that long ago, what felt futuristic in the late 00s is already considered vintage. Nostalgic tech is circling back, with wired headphones, flip phones and mp3 players that don’t make calls (!!) all spotted at the ears – or tangled up in the hands – of tastemakers.