Normcore in 2019: Is It Still a Trend?

Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash

Normcore is a style of dressing that involves the deliberate choice of unremarkable or unfashionable casual clothes.

For those who hate normcore’s hold on the fashion world and beyond, bad news: it’s here to stay. As consumers try to move away from the fast-fashion market, they’re looking for more sustainable wardrobe pieces that will last season after season. While many fashion lovers won’t be sticking to this trend, you’ll likely still see it around. But what is normcore, and how will it be followed in 2019?

Normcore is a combination of the words “normal” and “hardcore.” The term has mostly been credited to K-Hole, a trend agency who used the word to refer to someone who adapts to each setting they’re in, so that they appear “normal,” or like they belong. So, someone is acting in a normcore manner if they dress in a sports jersey for a football game and then throw on a ‘50s-style dress for a garden party. But this version of the term never really caught on. It instead started to refer to someone who dresses “basic.”

For those who are new to normcore, the trend is all about being casual and comfortable. Fundamentally, normcore is not really fashion-forward or much of a trend: it’s basically an anti-fashion statement. It draws inspiration from the looks of “everyday” people, the styles of the ‘90s (more Seinfeld than Kate Moss), and even certain groups of people like poker players. For example, their fashion statements typically include tracksuits, jeans, polos, sneakers, hoodies, sports jerseys, and baseball caps.

Over the years, normcore has evolved, producing other trends such as athleisure and menocore. Some fashionistas are even mixing the normcore trend with high fashion items or the latest seasonal trend for a new twist. But will these interpretations continue into 2019?

 Photo by Myriam / CC0

Normcore in 2019 - How to get this look:

So far, sneakers, athletic clothing, and jeans are the most popular elements of normcore this year. But polos and rugby shirts — staples of normcore — are expected to come back in a huge way in 2019, so you’ll be right on trend. To show off this style in the normcore way, pick up a polo or rugby shirt in a larger size and pair it with some boyfriend jeans or track pants (for a hint of athleisure). Menswear-inspired looks are also still trending this year. To take on this trend in a normcore fashion, try out some fitted (but not skinny) jeans with an oversized blazer, or some slacks and a sweater.

Mixing High and Low

Although no longer strictly normcore, the latest trend in the fashion world is to mix elements of normcore and high fashion. To get a hold on this style, think of mixing comfortable elements with more “uncomfortable” elements of your wardrobe. For example, you might wear loose-fitted Levi’s with a sweatshirt, a statement heel, and a handbag in the style of the season’s current It bag. Or, maybe you’ll opt for a structured blazer, boyfriend jeans, a t-shirt, and sneakers.

How to Pull Off Normcore

"Normcore is an especially tricky style to master because it's so, well, bland."

Normcore doesn’t have to be unflattering. You don’t have to wear baggy or bulky clothes. Choose items, cuts, and fabrics that are flattering to your body shape. If you hate mom jeans, opt for bootcut jeans in a different material or wash. Think the dad-sneaker trend is ugly? Skip it in favor of a style that’s more flattering, like an all-white style from Adidas. But the most important takeaway from the normcore trend is to wear what’s comfortable for you.

More Spring 2019 Trends

Spring 2019 Fashion Trends according to the Nordstrom Naples team will be:

• Sassy and Classy 
• Glam Casual (a dressed up Normcore)
• Belt bags & Crossbody 
• Something Navy 
• Pastels 
• Tie-Dye
• Leopard Prints