The aesthetic playground: Avant-Basic

You might’ve heard of Avant-Garde: ideas and styles that are radically innovative and experimental. To be Avant-Garde is not simply being ahead of the trends, but outside of them entirely. Basic, then, is the total opposite. It’s often used as an insult, as if to say: “you are the exact same as everyone else and your failure to surprise is disappointing.”

But there is nothing wrong with liking things that other people like. Certain trends get popular for a reason. The only instance in which I think it’s wrong is if a person follows a trend in order to fit in, without authentically liking the clothes they buy. There is something haughty about insulting someone for their ‘basic’ style – it creates a sense of superiority over simply following a trend.

[Avant-Basic] appears to mock people who try to look too unique simply for the sake of it

Avant-Basic, then, is an oxymoronic, self-aware trend. It appears to mock people who try to look too unique simply for the sake of it – becoming a kind of maximalism that kicks back against minimalism. Emma Hope Allwood, who coined the term in 2020, described it as: “extravagance in the age of mechanical reproduction”.

Defined by pastels, retro-psychedelic patterns, and checked print, this aesthetic is bright and playful.

Pastel greens and pinks are particularly prevalent in this trend

One specific garment the trend is marked by is the House of Sunny green Hockney dress, which is expensive and hard to get your hands on. However, there are many other garments sold in high street shops which fit the aesthetic well. This trend doesn’t follow strict rules – not every piece has to follow that certain curvy pattern you see on the Hockney dress. Pastel greens and pinks are particularly prevalent in this trend. A good option would be this pink polka dot top from Pull and Bear. They also sell a matching pair of jeans, but I advise you wear them separately for this trend – Avant-Basic really favours mismatched items. If you like your cropped tops, try this Peppermayo pink and yellow psychedelic print top.

Knitted, patterned cardigans and sweaters are also key to this trend. House of Sunny currently have an offer on for this bluebell-patterned cardigan. Or if you love yellow, Skinny Dip have a great lemon-patterned cardigan.

Some things are popular for a reason

In terms of skirts, the trend embraces all kinds of lengths. Sequins aren’t exactly central to the trend, but if the pattern or colour is right, then there’s no reason why they should be ruled out. You could try this multicoloured maxi skirt, or if you love peachy tones, try this pink mini skirt.

The accessories that fit this style are playful, with a focus on unusual shapes and patterns.  If you like tote bags, check out this green gingham bag or this neat pink polka dot shoulder bag. Blue and purple tones are also seen in Avant-Basic, though they are less common than green and pink. If you want to keep away from the latter tones, try this mesh turquoise shoulder bag paired with a lilac NY cap and enamel bangle.  If you’re in need of a pair of sunglasses to further elevate your outfit, try these pink-tinted ones from Pull and Bear fit well with the aesthetic.

So, if you’re worried about being basic, don’t be. Some things are popular for a reason, and don’t let the idea that other people wear the same clothes put you off.