A Fashion Family Argument
Every generation has its own questionable fashion trends, at least to the generations that came before them! And when you don’t really understand what you’re looking at or why teens spend an arm and a leg on ripped clothing, parents are usually the first to complain. Of course, experimenting with personal style is a normal part of growing up, but that doesn't mean parents have to appreciate every new look—and here are 20 fashion trends they definitely don’t.
1. Ultra-Low-Rise Jeans
Hey, don’t get us wrong. There was a time when low-rise jeans were everywhere! But just when parents thought they'd seen the last of them, the early 2000s trend returned with even more attitude. Some modern versions sit so far below the natural waist that bending over really does make the hair on a parent’s neck stand up.
2. Micro Mini Skirts
There's nothing controversial about a short skirt, but some modern designs barely reach the hips. Take a look at some of the more popular choices, like the Miu Miu micro mini trend—it helped popularize exceptionally short hemlines, leaving parents wondering how anyone could comfortably sit down in one.
3. Shirts With Offensive Slogans
Graphic tees have always been popular, but some teens just can’t help but gravitate towards some of the more offensive stuff. Like it or not, parents hate that! If anything, most would rather their kids express themselves without offending everyone at the table.
4. Extremely Distressed Jeans
A few rips can give denim some personality, but we’re not talking about the odd scuff. No, we’re talking about styles that leave enormous sections of the legs exposed. Parents struggle to understand why their children would spend good money on jeans that are basically a few threads away from falling apart.
5. Oversized Clothing
Baggy jeans have made a major comeback, and while there’s nothing wrong with a looser style in general, some teenagers favor extra-wide legs that completely cover their shoes. Oh, sure, it might be fashionable, but parents aren't thrilled when expensive denim constantly drags across dirty sidewalks (least of all on laundry day).
6. Sheer Tops Without Anything Underneath
Transparent mesh shirts and completely sheer blouses? Those have certainly become popular choices for people interested in daring fashion. Although they're frequently styled over camisoles, some leave less to the imagination, and parents might prefer their teens save these revealing looks for adulthood.
Shane Ryan Herilalaina on Unsplash
7. Pajamas Everywhere
Walking around in plaid pajama pants and slippers has become an acceptable everyday outfit among younger generations—though older people can’t understand why. Parents who spent years teaching their children to get dressed before leaving the house aren't impressed by recent developments, and seeing their kid wear the same flannel pants to school and a restaurant can be even more frustrating.
8. Platform Shoes
Towering platform boots make a statement, especially styles inspired by alternative fashion. The thing is, watching your child struggle to climb stairs in six-inch platforms isn't exactly reassuring. Though most parents won’t say anything outright, they do appreciate footwear that allows their children to walk without constantly worrying about broken ankles.
9. Clothing With Deliberate Stains
We’ve gone through head-scratching distressed fashion, but that’s not even the worst of it anymore! Some designer pieces feature intentional discoloration, faded patches, and dirty-looking finishes. To make things even more confusing, several luxury brands have even sold clothing designed to appear heavily worn before it leaves the store.
10. Extremely Long Acrylic Nails
Elaborate acrylic nails decorated with rhinestones, charms, and intricate artwork are cool to look at, and there’s no denying it. Well…unless you’re a parent! Some teens favor extensions several inches long, making everyday activities far more complicated. Next thing you know, their parents start wondering how their kids manage ordinary tasks.
11. Balaclavas as Everyday Accessories
There’s no way to look less menacing in a balaclava. Though they’re mostly reserved for the winter months, plenty have found a place in streetwear and designer fashion. Some young people wear knitted face coverings as accessories even when temperatures don't justify them.
12. Pants Worn Below the Underwear
Sagging pants have frustrated parents for decades, and the trend hasn't disappeared completely. Some teens love to position their jeans below their hips, leaving their underwear or at least its waistband on full display. You bet that’ll start arguments with parents!
13. Designer Slides With Socks
Socks with sandals was something we used to clown on, but that’s really not the case anymore. If anything, designer slides and athletic socks belong together at nearly every occasion for today’s teens. Gucci and Adidas only helped turn casual slides into recognizable accessories, so don’t be surprised to see the latest youths boasting them.
14. Underwear as Outerwear
Have you heard of the visible lingerie trend? It’s as saucy as it sounds! It’s made corset tops, lace bralettes, and underwear-inspired garments more and more common in everyday fashion. Naturally, parents aren't always comfortable seeing their teens experiment with them, especially when those items aren’t part of a less revealing ensemble.
15. Oversized Fake Eyelashes
False eyelashes can make someone’s eyes pop, and there’s no denying their appeal on a grander scale. The thing is, dramatic extensions aren't everyone's favorite trend. Some younger enthusiasts gravitate towards exceptionally long lashes for an even more exaggerated appearance, leaving parents wondering what happened to mascara.
16. Clothing Covered in Oversized Brand Logos
Luxury streetwear has encouraged some teens to treat recognizable designer logos as the most important part of an outfit. A Supreme hoodie, Gucci belt, or Balenciaga T-shirt can quickly be the talk of the town among young fashion enthusiasts—even if parents have questions about the cost.
17. Facial Piercings With Heavy Jewelry
A small nose stud might not attract much attention, but large septum rings? Eyebrow jewelry and multiple lip piercings? That’s the kind of stuff that can generate stronger reactions. It’s normal for most parents to also worry about healing, hygiene, and permanent scarring, let alone struggle to embrace such increasingly elaborate looks.
18. Excessively Long Sleeves
There’s nothing wrong with a good long-sleeved shirt, but some oversized hoodies and sweaters have sleeves that go well beyond the fingertips. Although the exaggerated proportions are the point, plenty of parents find them inconvenient when their kids attempt to eat, write, or handle everyday objects.
19. Clothing With Disturbing Graphics
And here we thought a crude logo was the worst of it. In reality, fashion inspired by horror movies, gothic artwork, and alternative music sometimes has unsettling images that aren't really family-friendly. It’s not just realistic skulls, either; violent imagery or disturbing illustrations appeal to teens interested in darker aesthetics, and parents may draw the line at graphic designs that make them uncomfortable.
20. Very Expensive Sneakers
Limited-edition sneakers are practically commodities! That’s why certain Nike collaborations and rare Air Jordans sell for hundreds or thousands of dollars. Parents obviously aren’t thrilled with the price, even if their kids fight tooth and nail to justify the price tag.
