The Indie Sleaze Revival Is Here: These Are the Trends You’re About To See Everywhere

From distressed denim shorts to patterned tights, Indie Sleaze style is making a major comeback.

By Alexa Vazquez Oct 29, 2024 12:00 AMTags
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You don't have to be a trend forecaster to know that fashion is cyclical. As we know, trends come and go, and it was only a matter of time before the "Indie Sleaze" era came back around. 

The past few years have been dominated by the Y2K aesthetic of the early 2000s, which includes pieces like Von Dutch trucker hats, tiny shoulder bags, baby tees, low-rise jeans, and glittery hair accessories.

Now that it's too chilly for a low-slung denim mini and a polo top, there’s only one thing to do: slip some colorful tights on under it, cozy up in a long, hole-filled cardigan, and embrace it—Indie Sleaze is back, baby!

What is Indie Sleaze fashion?

The Indie Sleaze era was at its height between the late 2000s and early 2010s, back when Tumblr was our favorite social media platform, fashion bloggers influenced our style, and our headphones still had wires.

There are a few trends that rose to popularity during this time, and we're not just talking about skinny jeans here, although yes, you'll likely be seeing a resurgence very soon.

Some Indie Sleaze trends have been back for a while, like ballet flats. However, opt for a silver pair with a contrasting toecap or a block heel Mary Jane if you want an authentic Indie Sleaze look.

Much of Indie Sleaze fashion was inspired by the 1980s, which is why everyone was wearing a graphic tee (bonus points if it was bedazzled) and a pop of neon. 

We can't forget about leggings, either, especially faux-leather pairs, since it was during this time that leggings became a viable pants options.

Wear them with a sequin mini dress and a braided headband to keep your sidebangs in place, especially if you want to look like you're partying with indie music royalty at Glastonbury or Coachella. 

Another huge inspiration was 90s grunge – think patterned tights worn beneath ripped jean shorts and paired with a sherpa-lined denim jackets.

Whether you're a millennial ready to embrace all the nostalgia or a Gen Alpha who can't wait to try this trend for the first time, keep reading to shop our favorite Indie Sleaze revival pieces below. 

Lola Jeans Gabriella-slc Corduroy Sherpa Jacket

If you want to embrace the 90s grunge side of Indie Sleaze, look no further than this jacket.

Made from corduroy, this denim colored jacket has a plush sherpa lining for added warmth.

Avec Les Filles Bow-embellished Strapless Sequin Dress

While sequin never really goes out of style, this dress is so Indie Sleaze coded because of its strapless, body-con silhouette and oversized bow detail.

Pair it with leather or latex leggings for a truly authentic look.

Avec Les Filles Bagatelle Collection Crackle Faux Leather Legging

These aren't your average workout leggings, they're much chicer.

Soft and stretchy, these high-waisted leggings have a subtle crackle pattern that was all the rage back then and a sheeny finish that makes them perfect for nighttime outings.

Mary Occult Net Tights

Patterned tights are must-have to complete any Indie Sleaze look.

This fishnet pair boasts a pentagram motif that's perfect if you're after a witchy vibe. Remember those skull-print scarves that were everywhere during this era? Talk about iconic.

Fashion Hub Bow Ballet Flats

Both Tory Burch and ballet flats were everywhere during the Indie Sleaze era, which is why this pair is so on point.

Featuring a crinkly metallic finish and contrasting toe cap, it's clear these shoes will never go out of style.

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Cocoa Yacht Club, Inc. High Waist Ripped Denim Shorts

Another 90s favorite are denim shorts like these, which have a high-waisted silhouette and mild distressing.

Complete the look with some tights and combat boots.

Urban Expressions Faux Fur Bucket Hat Bucket Hat

Finish off your Indie Sleaze look with this funky, faux-fur bucket hat.

It comes in four colors.

Alterre Block Heel Mary Janes

If your style leaned more twee, then you'll love these Mary Janes

They have an easy-to-walk-in heel and a detachable strap, which is adorned with cute velvet bow.

Cocoa Yacht Club, Inc. White Rhinestone Rock Star Pattern V Neck T Shirt

Even if you weren't into indie rock, you were probably wearing a graphic tee of some sort during this era.

This v-neck offers some glitz and glam thanks to its rhinstones.

Cocoa Yacht Club, Inc. Frayed Hem Distressed Denim Shorts

Because of its frayed hems and high-waisted design, this pair of denim shorts give off that vintage vibe that was so beloved during the Indie Sleaze era.

Music Legs Neon Pink Knee High Socks

Another Indie Sleaze must-have is a pair of knee-high socks. But not just any knee-high socks will do.

These are perfect since they have a retro striped design in an 80s-inspired shade of neon pink.