FROM Brat Summer to Bridgerton Boobs: A Fashion Year to Remember
The fashion world has seen a whirlwind of trends, styles, and iconic moments in the past year, making it a truly remarkable time for fashion enthusiasts. From the resurgence of body positivity to the rise of the "Brat Summer" aesthetic, the industry has been buzzing with creativity and self-expression. Here, we celebrate the standout moments and personalities that have defined the year in fashion, as revealed by Fabulous’ Fashion Awards.
BODY POSITIVITY AWARD: NICOLA COUGHLAN
Nicola Coughlan, known for her role in Bridgerton, has emerged as a beacon of body positivity this year. The actress, who has captivated audiences not only with her talent but also with her unapologetic embrace of her body, responded to comments about her size with grace and strength. During a press junket, she highlighted the lack of representation for women with her body type in media, sparking a wave of admiration from fans worldwide. Her portrayal of a confident woman in a period drama, complete with steamy scenes, has inspired many to embrace their own bodies. The surge in sales of balcony bras, up 61%, is a testament to the influence of her "Bridgerton Boobs" on fashion trends.
BEST REVENGE DRESS: J-LO
Jennifer Lopez made headlines in September with a stunning revenge dress that turned heads at the Toronto International Film Festival. Following her split from Ben Affleck, J-Lo donned a Tamara Ralph couture gown adorned with mirrored discs, creating a dazzling effect reminiscent of a disco ball. The dress featured daring cutouts held together by black velvet bows, showcasing her figure and confidence. This bold fashion statement not only marked her comeback but also solidified her status as a style icon, proving that sometimes, the best way to move on is to look fabulous while doing it.
SERVICES TO LINGERIE: RIHANNA
Rihanna continues to reign supreme in the lingerie world with her brand Savage X Fenty. As a new mother of two, she has been refreshingly candid about the changes her body has undergone, promoting a message of self-love and acceptance. Her commitment to creating lingerie that flatters every body type has resonated with many, making her a champion of body positivity in the fashion industry. With her innovative designs and inclusive sizing, Rihanna is redefining what it means to feel sexy and confident in one’s own skin.
BEST TREND SETTER: CHARLI XCX
Charli XCX has made waves in the fashion scene with her "Brat Summer" aesthetic, inspired by her sixth album. This trend celebrates youthful hedonism and carefree self-expression, characterized by laddered tights, no bras, and a nod to 90s grunge. The Brat look has taken social media by storm, with TikTok users embracing the style in droves. Even political figures have joined the trend, showcasing its widespread appeal. Charli’s influence on fashion this year is undeniable, as she encourages fans to embrace their individuality and have fun with their style.
BEST METHOD DRESSER: ZENDAYA
Zendaya has taken red carpet fashion to new heights with her innovative approach to "method dressing." This year, she wore outfits inspired by her film roles, showcasing her versatility and creativity. From a futuristic hooded gown for Dune to chic tennis-inspired looks for Challengers, Zendaya has proven that fashion can be an extension of one’s artistry. Her ability to blend character and style has made her a standout figure in the industry, earning her accolades for her unique and thoughtful approach to dressing.
BEST MALE: PAUL MESCAL
Irish actor Paul Mescal has emerged as a fashion icon in his own right, effortlessly blending casual and formal styles. From his laid-back Gaelic football shorts to tailored trousers on the red carpet, Mescal has showcased a range of looks that resonate with both fans and fashion critics alike. His recognition as GQ’s Most Stylish Person of 2024 highlights his influence in the male fashion sphere, inspiring men to embrace their personal style with confidence.
BEST NEWCOMER: LABOUR LADIES
The political landscape has also made its mark on fashion this year, with Labour’s return to power bringing a fresh wave of style. Deputy PM Angela Rayner has swapped her usual suits for vibrant block-colour ensembles, showcasing a more approachable and fashionable side of politics. Meanwhile, Victoria Starmer, wife of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has garnered attention for her chic looks, leading to sell-outs of the British brand ME + EM. This shift in political fashion reflects a broader trend of embracing personal style in all spheres of life.
HIGH STREET HERO: ABBEY CLANCY
Abbey Clancy has made a significant impact on high street fashion with her collaborations with F&F at Tesco. Her Christmas capsule collection, featuring stylish yet affordable pieces, quickly became a sensation, proving that high street fashion can be both trendy and accessible. Clancy’s ability to connect with everyday shoppers while maintaining a sense of glamour has earned her the title of High Street Hero, inspiring many to embrace fashion without breaking the bank.
LEGEND AWARD: PAMELA ANDERSON
Pamela Anderson has undergone a remarkable transformation this year, stepping into the spotlight not just as a former Baywatch star but as a serious actress and fashion icon. Her bare-faced beauty and chic designer looks have made her a favorite on red carpets, as she champions authenticity and self-acceptance. Anderson’s resurgence in the fashion world, coupled with her recent film roles, has solidified her status as a legend, inspiring a new generation of fans.
BEST SLOBRITY: KATIE HOLMES
Katie Holmes has embraced the "slobrity" trend, showcasing laid-back style that resonates with many. Often spotted in baggy jeans and oversized bags, she has redefined casual chic for mothers and busy women everywhere. Her relatable fashion choices, combined with her effortless elegance, have made her a style icon for those seeking comfort without sacrificing style.
BEST TOURDROBE: THE SWIFTIES
Taylor Swift’s Eras tour has not only captivated audiences but also sparked a fashion phenomenon among her fans. Swifties have taken to dressing up in sparkly, themed outfits for the concerts, leading to a significant boost in fashion-related spending. The excitement surrounding the tour has inspired fans to express their creativity through fashion, showcasing the powerful connection between music and style. The rise in searches for "Eras Tour" outfits highlights the impact of Swift’s influence on fashion trends this year.
This year has been a celebration of diversity, creativity, and self-expression in the fashion world. From body positivity to innovative trends, the industry continues to evolve, reflecting the changing landscape of society and culture. The Fabulous Fashion Awards have highlighted the individuals and moments that have made a significant impact, reminding us that fashion is not just about clothing—it’s about identity, empowerment, and the stories we tell through our style.
