Miu Miu, by Miuccia Prada, is making its preppy style into students’ closets — why? The brand is bringing back a Y2K style that Gen Z grew up with, while also keeping it classic and lived-in chic. Pleated skirts and plaid button-ups play into the ‘90s“Clueless” wardrobe, embodying that playful, pastel vibe. While also in their new FW25 collection, they incorporate a bit of a ‘70s flair — the Nappa leather boots with buckle in caramel and red really showcase this idea. Their new satin bras, as seen on the runway, have a pointed shape, bringing back the retro bra; some consumers disagree with its 1950s “bullet bra” shape, while many women believe it can be seen as a source of freedom — that women can wear anything they like.
During a one-year university period spent in Florence, I observed this style frequently. While Florentines have much more of a unique style, as well as in any city, there is a distinct ‘70s style in Florence. Brown boots, belts, leather jackets and bags — brown suede is absolutely everywhere. Even in Boston, I have seen this ‘70s re-emergence over the past year. Especially in recent months, the casual boots with jeans, skirts and shorts are exciting to witness.
As I write, a girl in my class is wearing a hat similar to Miu Miu’s seen on many models on the recent runway for FW25. This is the one piece that almost looks as though it’s from the 1920s, and in my mind ties in with the trending bob-style haircut as well. Hair curled right up by the ear with this style of hat — I love it. I also saw a few trench coats in simple straight silhouettes; many looked to be made of a lighter material. This is something that can be thrown on top of any outfit and completely change the vibe. Right now, I have on a lightweight olive green trench from Mango — it also has a high mock neck and buttons, and by taking out the waist belt, I completely transformed the jacket. It has this more relaxed, casual vibe, especially when worn open with a pair of jeans and a white tank. I recommend any staple piece tank from Aritzia, it shouldn’t be more than twenty-five bucks!
I believe students, especially of my age, love this style because it is simple yet classy. It is easy to put together and encapsulates a meshing of ‘90s and ‘70s style — where just a good fitting pair of jeans, a brown belt, and a white tank or tee is a well put together outfit. This chic, lived-in style is coming back, and paired with a suede bag and some ballet flats, it’s just perfect.
This said, I believe it also allows us as a generation to express ourselves, depending on how someone wears it. Whether it’s just a pair of brown boots and a mini skirt, or a full-on colorful seventies style outfit, such as a plaid jacket, denim mini skirt and Miu Miu’s red Nappa boots, the brand resonates with us. It feels as if we are going back in time, while still pushing us as a generation forward in the fashion realm.
