renaissance revival
renaissance revival
A lookbook and guide on how to incorporate renaissance era inspired fashion into your wardrobe
Article written by Manon Bushong, Assistant Fashion Editor
Photography by Annika Ide, Photography Director, and Audrey O’Neill, Assistant Photography Director
Layout by Annika Ide
Modeling by Corbin Woessner, Fashion Editor, and Manon Bushong
AAsas child, I was lucky enough to frequently visit many of the art museums in New York City. I found myself in awe of the grand paintings from the Renaissance era. While the talent of the artists responsible for these masterpieces is unparalleled, what truly struck me was the dresses that were exhibited in these works. The women were draped in long, elegant gowns, with puffy sleeves, square and high necklines.
Modern versions of these Renaissance era themes can be seen dominating the runways of numerous designers. Be on the lookout for these Renaissance trends, because these dreamy pieces are making a strong comeback this fall and winter fashion season.
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Long dresses and silhouettes characteristic of a Renaissance era look have made their way into several designers’ Fall/Winter 2020 collections. Acne studios, Comme des Garcons, and Rodarte are just a few of the several labels that have embraced this style in their most recent collections.1 These elegant pieces are representative of how fashion is truly an art form. Modern designers use runway models the way that the 14th century painters I used to admire used their canvas’.
1 Borrelli-Persson, L., “Fall’s Renaissance Fashions Just Might Win Your Quarantined Heart”. 2020.
While many Renaissance looks wouldn’t make for practical streetwear, there are a multitude of themes that can be translated into modern fashion. Whether it be a square silhouette or a high neck with ruffles, Renaissance necklines are one of this fall and winter’s trendiest pieces.
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Additionally, layering both of these necklines can create an extremely sophisticated, high fashion look. One way to achieve this modern Renaissance inspired style is by pairing trendy pants or a simple skirt with a high neck white blouse underneath a sharp, square neck tank top. Incorporating modern jewelry styles such as statement earrings and layered necklaces can also help escalate this look.
Exaggerated sleeves have been all the rage in recent seasons, mirroring fashion trends of the Renaissance era. As described by Harper Bazaar Junior Editor, Tilly Wheating, one way to style this look for the colder seasons is with a frilly little black dress.2 While carrying themes of a youthful babydoll look, a short black dress with puffy sleeves and frills is a modern twist on a classic Renaissance style gown.
This fall and winter, pair your LBD with a trendy blazer, tights, and chunky boots to accomplish a chic outfit that is guaranteed to turn heads. Dramatic Renaissance style sleeves are also very popular when it comes to modern sweaters. Figure hugging sweaters with large balloon sleeves are a great way to incorporate this cool style into your knitwear collection.
2 Vince, J., “Bazaar’s editors select their favourite autumn/winter 2020 trend”. 2020.
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The natural, bold color scheme, frequently used in Renaissance looks, is also trending this fall and winter. From jewel tones to creams and browns, these shades are expected to be seen all over the fashion realm within the next few months. Emerald, maroon, plum, and mustard are a few prime examples of these elegant colors that are set to trend this fall and winter season, matching their relevance in the Renaissance era.
Additionally, regal textiles bearing a heavy resemblance to those used on the majestic gowns of the 16th century are growing in popularity amongst street style pieces. Ornate prints, velvets, silks, and embellished fabrics are a great way to embrace Renaissance motifs in modern silhouettes.
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The square neck, puffy sleeve gown look is not the only Renaissance trend that is popping up in 2020. Puffy headbands, while they may not be as dramatic as they were in the 14th century, have found their way into modern fashion.
Whether they be velvet, quilted, or topped with pearls, this regal accessory serves as a chic statement piece that is sure to spice up any of your fall or winter outfits. Headbands can be paired with your formal holiday outfits, or dressed down and worn with jeans and a blazer for a sophisticated, yet casual streetwear look.
Modern twists on 14th century fashion that combine elegance with practicality, therefore making it the ultimate fall and winter trend. Whether it be fancy necklines, puffy sleeves, or accessories, get excited to incorporate Renaissance themes into your wardrobe for this upcoming season.
