As the dupatta is rebranded as a “Scandinavian aesthetic,” communities are left questioning whether the globalisation of fashion aesthetics—without proper context—leads to quiet cultural erasure.

In a time when fashion is more global than ever before, cultural crossovers are bound to happen. But when traditional garments are rebranded under trendy, Western labels without proper context or credit, it brings up uncomfortable questions about respect, representation, and recognition. Recently, a new controversy emerged online when social media users pointed out how the dupatta—a piece of clothing that has been a staple in South Asian wardrobes for centuries—was being reimagined as part of a so-called “Scandinavian fit.” Influencers, often white women, began pairing flowing scarves or sheer wraps with minimalistic outfits and tagging them as Nordic-inspired silhouettes. But for many in South Asian communities, this wasn’t innovation but appropriation masquerading as aesthetic.

The dupatta, which holds historical, cultural, and spiritual value across regions in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, is not simply a piece of cloth but a marker of identity, modesty, and beauty. So, to see it stripped of its origins and renamed without acknowledgment felt deeply personal to many. This trend, while seemingly harmless to some, touched a nerve because it followed a familiar pattern—the mislabeling or rebranding of cultural elements by those with more power or reach, often for profit or popularity. It reminded people of when “chai” became “chai tea latte” or when henna was sold as “festival face art” without any mention of its roots in South Asian or Middle Eastern cultures.

While some argued that certain flowing garments may have historical connections across Persia or parts of Europe, the very specific rebranding of a garment so central to South Asian culture as “Scandinavian” overlooked its deeply rooted presence in the subcontinent. The issue was not that scarves were being worn but the erasure of origin, the lack of credit, and the tone-deaf celebration of what was being presented as new, when in fact it was ancestral.

This moment reflects a broader, ongoing issue where cultural artifacts—especially those from marginalized or colonized communities—are reinterpreted through a Western lens and marketed without proper understanding. From lehengas being dubbed “Y2K two-piece sets” to bindis being sold as “face jewels” on festival websites, from Maasai beadwork being called “boho chic” to henna being rebranded as “temporary tattoos,” the cycle of cultural erasure repeats itself again and again. And often at the center of this are influencers and fast fashion brands, who chase trends without pausing to research the heritage behind the styles they promote.

On platforms like Shein, one can easily find dupatta-inspired garments being sold as “Ibiza wraps,” completely detached from their original makers—many of whom are Indian artisans who spend months weaving and dyeing these pieces by hand. These knockoffs are cheaper, faster, and trendier—but they come at a cost. The economic impact of this erasure is devastating for communities that rely on craft for livelihood. Maasai artisans lose business as their designs are replicated and mass-produced. Henna artists see their culturally significant work repackaged in plastic kits, marketed to festival-goers. Indian weavers struggle to keep up with global retailers who capitalize on their legacy without crediting it.

But the impact isn’t just economic—it’s emotional too. For many South Asian youth growing up in the diaspora, symbols like the dupatta, the bindi, or mehndi are deeply personal. They are ways to stay connected to a heritage that is already fragile in a world where assimilation is often the price of acceptance. When those symbols are rebranded, repackaged, or dismissed as trends, it can feel like yet another piece of home is being taken away.

Yet, amid all this, social media has also become a place for resistance. While it has played a role in spreading these trends, it has equally empowered people to speak out against them. South Asian creators, fashion historians, and cultural commentators are using social media platforms to call out appropriation, educate their audiences, and reclaim their narratives. 

This isn’t a call to stop sharing styles or inspirations—it’s a call to do so with care. Cultural exchange is beautiful when it comes with respect, when credit is given where it’s due, and when the original communities are included, not excluded. The exchange must be reciprocal. It must credit the source, compensate the maker, and respect the context. As fashion continues to globalize, it’s crucial we don’t lose sight of where it all began—and the people who kept it alive.

Also Read: Your Wardrobe Might Be Reflecting a Recession

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Here are some fashion trends that have historically reflected economic downturns and are now reappearing in our wardrobes.

In the early 1930s, when the Great Depression took hold, fashion became more practical, and quietly stepped away from glamour. Then, a few decades later, during the oil crisis of the 1970s, something similar happened when people turned to earthy tones, longer skirts, and a more relaxed boho style. And if we look at the recession of 2008, when the world faced another major financial crash, fashion responded yet again with similar trends where loud logos faded, minimalism took over, and people started choosing basics that felt more sensible.

These shifts in style may seem like changing tastes on the surface, but they follow a pattern and that’s no mere coincidence. Fashion, though often seen as frivolous or detached from reality, has always mirrored the social and economic pulse of its time, shifting subtly—or sometimes drastically—in response to the pressures people face. Recession, with its huge impact on spending habits and consumer mindset, has a way of quietly shaping the clothes we wear, the trends we follow, and the statements we choose to make through style. This article explores the fascinating ways in which economic downturns have consistently left their mark on the fashion industry, revealing how style adapts when society is forced to rethink its priorities.

Minimalism and Quiet Luxury

Throughout history, economic downturns have often prompted a return to minimalist fashion, and 2025 is no exception. As recessionary pressures mount, consumers are increasingly drawn to quiet luxury, an aesthetic defined by clean lines, muted tones such as beige, black, and off-white, and logo-free designs that convey sophistication with subtlety rather than flash. This preference stems not only from a desire for elegance but also from practicality: high-quality, versatile pieces offer greater value when budgets are tighter.
This trend isn’t new. After the 2008 financial crisis, Phoebe Philo’s work at Celine became emblematic of the minimalist movement, resonating with audiences seeking calm and refinement in uncertain times. Fast-forward to today, and shows like Succession have reintroduced the concept of quiet luxury into the cultural conversation, highlighting understated affluence over flashy displays of wealth. In 2025, this growing preference also speaks to a broader societal shift that is valuing longevity, subtlety, and authenticity over rapid consumption and conspicuous branding.

Longer Hemlines (The Hemline Index)

The “hemline index” is a theory suggesting that skirt lengths tend to fall during tough economic times and once again, it appears relevant. Maxi and midi skirts have seen a massive resurgence. Historically, longer hemlines during downturns, such as during the Great Depression and post-2008, reflected a shift toward modesty and practicality. Covered silhouettes offered more versatility and durability, catering to a mood of caution and restraint. While it’s important to note that fashion doesn’t follow the hemline theory religiously (for    instance, the prosperous 1950s also favored longer skirts), the broader pattern remains: in times of economic hardship, consumers gravitate toward styles that feel stable, sensible, and enduring.

Indie Sleaze and Nostalgic Revivals

At the other end of the style spectrum, the gritty, chaotic aesthetic of early-2000s “indie sleaze” has roared back to life. Characterized by skinny jeans, distressed layers, slip dresses, messy eyeliner, and an overall DIY spirit, indie sleaze appeals to those longing for a less polished, more rebellious era.
During past downturns, notably post-2008, similar nostalgic trends offered emotional refuge, allowing people to romanticize periods of past turbulence as simpler or freer times. In 2025, cultural moments like Lady Gaga’s punk-era revival in Mayhem have propelled this style back into the spotlight. Indie sleaze’s appeal lies not just in nostalgia but in its affordability and individualism, providing a low-cost way to express personal style amid broader economic anxiety.

Underconsumption-Core and Thrifting

Another major behavioral shift in 2025 is the rise of “underconsumption-core” which is a conscious effort to minimize buying, embrace secondhand shopping, and find new ways to reuse and repurpose existing wardrobes. Social media platforms have become hubs for thrift hauls, “shop your closet” challenges, and DIY upcycling tips.
This trend harks back to post-2008, when resale platforms like Depop and Poshmark flourished. Today’s version is even more value-driven and sustainability-focused, reflecting growing awareness of both economic and environmental crises. Underconsumption-core speaks to a new ethos: style doesn’t have to come at the cost of the planet or one’s wallet. Instead, creativity, resourcefulness, and personal storytelling become the real markers of fashion credibility.

Peplum Tops

Peplum tops, featuring a distinctive flared ruffle at the waist, are another silhouette making a comeback in 2025. Historically, peplums have emerged during or after economic crises, giving a subtle flourish in otherwise streamlined wardrobes. Christian Dior’s iconic New Look post-World War II, with its cinched waists and voluminous skirts, embodied a similar balance between optimism and austerity. Following the 2008 financial crisis, peplum tops once again found favor for their ability to add flair without extravagance. Today, designers like Ashlynn Park are reintroducing them with modern updates like cleaner cuts, lighter fabrics, and a focus on functionality. Their resurgence signals cautious optimism: consumers are ready for a bit of fun in their fashion choices but still value practicality and versatility over flamboyant splurges.

Recession Blonde (and Low-Maintenance Beauty)

The idea of “recession blonde” was coined on TikTok and it reflects the broader beauty shift toward low-maintenance routines in tight economies. Rather than frequent salon visits to maintain a perfect platinum hue, consumers are embracing darker roots, more natural shades, and cost-effective color treatments like glosses.
This mirrors a broader pattern seen after the 2008 crash, when consumers pared back spending on professional beauty services. In 2025, stylists are seeing a surge in requests for “lived-in” color and treatments that extend the time between appointments. It’s a subtle but telling sign of how recessions reshape beauty norms, prioritizing authenticity and affordability over constant upkeep.

Conservative Silhouettes and Muted Colors

Along with longer hemlines, conservative silhouettes including high necklines, long sleeves, and relaxed, layered fits are regaining ground in 2025. Colors, too, are shifting toward muted, earthy palettes like warm browns, charcoal grays, olive greens, and soft neutrals. This isn’t purely aesthetic. Practicality underpins the trend. Muted, conservative pieces tend to mix and match easily, transition across seasons, and outlast fleeting fads, offering greater long-term value. In previous recessions such as the post-1929 crash and post-2008 recovery,  similar trends emerged, reflecting a societal mood of prudence and introspection.

Business Casual and Corporate-Inspired Looks

Economic uncertainty also influences how we dress for work and beyond. During recessions, there’s often a resurgence of business casual and corporate-inspired looks, where tailored blazers, wide-leg slacks, crisp shirts, and structured dresses dominate. Dubbed “officecore,” this trend blends professional polish with enough versatility to transition seamlessly from boardrooms to brunches. The early 2010s, following the Great Recession, saw a similar phenomenon, with young adults embracing sharp corporate styles even in nightlife settings. In 2025, designers like Stella McCartney and Peter Do are reviving this spirit but with a twist: reimagining traditional suiting with relaxed cuts, gender-fluid tailoring, and unexpected fabric choices. Officecore today is less about rigid formality and more about smart, adaptable dressing — reflecting a world where professional and personal lives blur, and consumers seek clothing that maximizes both style and function.

High Heels (The High Heel Index)

The so-called “high heel index” is a theory that heel heights rise during the initial stages of economic downturns remains a fascinating, if imperfect, indicator. In the early months of recessions, bold fashion statements, including dramatic heels, sometimes flourish as acts of sartorial defiance or escapism. This was observed at the onset of the Great Depression, though as hardships deepened, comfort and pragmatism took hold.

Also Read: The Questionable Use of the Idea of Feminism as a Marketing Ploy Across History

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From trends in fashion to big changes in entertainment and social media, we’ve rounded up the highlights you won’t want to miss. Check out the biggest happenings of the week!

With major brands making bold moves and new trends emerging, there’s been plenty to talk about. In this article, we’ll highlight the biggest happenings of the week that made it to our conversations. 

Paris Fashion Week for Fall/Winter 2025

Paris Fashion Week for Fall/Winter 2025, which is ongoing from March 3 to March 11, 2025, has already delivered a series of impactful collections. The collections demonstrate how Paris Fashion Week continues to push the envelope in creativity, sustainability, and inclusivity, setting the tone for the future of fashion.

Louis Vuitton Launches Its First Makeup Line

Louis Vuitton has officially announced its first-ever makeup line, La Beauté Louis Vuitton, set to launch in Fall 2025. The collection, revealed during Paris Fashion Week, marks the brand’s expansion into beauty and is led by renowned makeup artist Dame Pat McGrath as its Creative Director. The lineup will include 55 lipsticks, 10 lip balms, and 8 eyeshadow palettes, reflecting Louis Vuitton’s commitment to luxury and quality. While details about the formulations remain under wraps, the collection is expected to embody the house’s signature craftsmanship and innovation. This highly anticipated launch is poised to elevate Louis Vuitton’s presence in the global beauty industry, solidifying its status as a leader in luxury beyond fashion and accessories.

Lollapalooza India 2025

Lollapalooza India 2025 brought an electrifying weekend to Mumbai’s Mahalaxmi Racecourse on March 8 and 9, with a lineup that had something for everyone. Green Day, Shawn Mendes, and Louis Tomlinson headlined the festival, making it a dream come true for rock and pop fans. EDM lovers weren’t left out, with Zedd and Alok turning the venue into a massive dance party. Indie and alternative fans got their fix with Glass Animals, Nothing But Thieves, and AURORA. Raftaar x Kr$na, Hanumankind, Niladri Kumar, Lisa Mishra, Talwiinder, and Anushka added their own energy to the mix. 

TikTok Expands Into Local Services to Boost Small Business Engagement

TikTok is expanding its services in the U.S. by building a dedicated team to help small businesses connect with creators and users on the platform. The company has posted job openings in key cities such as Seattle, Los Angeles, and New York, aiming to strengthen the relationship between local merchants and TikTok’s vast creator community. This move follows a similar approach used in Southeast Asia, where TikTok collaborated with creators to offer deals for restaurants, hotels, and travel. Through this expansion, TikTok intends to further support small businesses and improve the user experience, even as the platform faces ongoing legal challenges in the U.S.

Disney Cancels ‘Tiana’ Series

Disney has canceled the planned ‘Tiana’ animated series, which was to be based on characters from ‘The Princess and the Frog.’ Instead, the studio is developing a short-form special inspired by the original movie, with new storytelling overseen by Joyce Sherri and Steve Anderson. This shift is part of Disney’s strategy to move away from long-form streaming content.

Also Read: Milan Fashion Week 2025: The Biggest Highlights and Trends

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