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Kidcore on the Runways

In 2024, one of the most prominent fashion trends has been Kidcore, a nostalgic yet playful aesthetic that has captured the imagination of designers and fashion enthusiasts alike. Its influence was visible not only on the streets but also on the major fashion runways for the Spring/Summer 2025 collections, showing no sign of fading away anytime soon. The trend, which draws inspiration from the carefree, colorful world of childhood, takes cues from the vibrant, whimsical elements of youth culture and repurposes them for high fashion. Designers embraced this aesthetic with childlike drawings, stickers, and references to cartoons and classic storybooks, reflecting a broader cultural embrace of escapism and nostalgia.

The SS’25 collections presented a range of interpretations of Kidcore, confirming that it’s not just a fleeting trend but a cultural movement that resonates deeply with today’s mood. At Moschino, models strutted down the runway in raincoats adorned with childlike scribbles, embracing a playful chaos that only childhood art can capture. Coach took a more direct approach by embellishing their sneakers with Kidcore-inspired stickers, giving a sense of rebellion and youthful energy. Bally, too, tapped into this aesthetic by showcasing prints that resembled the charmingly naïve drawings of a first-grader, full of bright colors and simple shapes.

Bottega Veneta added a more refined but equally whimsical twist, featuring handbags that seemed to tell a story, with embroidered designs inspired by children’s fairy tales. Sandy Liang, not one to shy away from playful themes, dedicated her entire collection to a spy-girl cartoon universe, replete with vibrant colors and nostalgic references to childhood fantasies.

Escapism Through Fashion

The rise of Kidcore is more than just a fashion statement; it is a response to the increasingly complex and often overwhelming nature of modern life. In times of uncertainty, especially in an era of rapid technological change, political instability, and global challenges, people are gravitating towards escapism. Kidcore, with its references to childhood innocence, cartoons, and fairy tales, allows individuals to reconnect with a simpler, more carefree time. This connection to childhood nostalgia provides comfort and a sense of whimsy that many find increasingly necessary in today’s world.

Fashion, as a form of self-expression, allows individuals to embrace their inner child and experiment with bold, fun styles that break away from conventional adult fashion. The whimsy and playfulness inherent in Kidcore fashion invite everyone to engage in a little fun, pushing back against the pressures of grown-up responsibilities and societal expectations.

The Continuing Appeal of Kidcore

It seems likely that Kidcore will not simply fade away after 2024. In fact, its presence in the SS’25 collections proves that the trend is just getting started. As long as escapism remains a cultural necessity, Kidcore will continue to resonate with both designers and consumers. The blend of nostalgic comfort and youthful rebellion that defines this trend holds a mirror to society’s need to retreat into a more joyful, imaginative space.

Moreover, the continued prominence of this trend suggests that the line between childhood and adulthood will continue to blur in the fashion world. Kidcore is not only for the young but for anyone seeking a playful, fun way to express themselves through style. With its focus on imagination, nostalgia, and whimsy, Kidcore speaks to our desire to take a step back from reality and indulge in the lightheartedness of youth.

The Show

Kidcore is much more than a passing fad; it’s a cultural phenomenon that taps into the collective desire for escapism and joy in today’s hectic world. With designers incorporating elements like childlike drawings, playful stickers, and references to cartoons and fairy tales, Kidcore has redefined the way we approach fashion. As we move into 2025, it’s clear that this trend will remain a powerful force in fashion, offering a refreshing and lighthearted escape from the stresses of everyday life.