HW Endorses: Elevated grunge

Decades after Kurt Cobain’s historic MTV Unplugged session in 1993, the Nirvana frontman’s powerful, poignant performance is still referenced today as one of the greatest moments in grunge music history. It was made even more iconic when he wore what was considered an anti-fashion look on stage: a slouchy cardigan, flannel shirt and loose-fit Levi’s 501 jeans. The accidental fashion inspiration was also well- known for his haphazard outfits from thrift stores and army surplus shops.

These elements of grunge fashion – authenticity, sustainability, and self-expression – are still being embraced by today’s youths. While it’s a trend that’s been around for several seasons, designers are now approaching the aesthetic in a way that ironically appeals more to fashion enthusiasts than the anti-establishment sentiments of Generation X.

For instance, Bottega Veneta imagined what “grown-up” grunge would look like with the quintessential blue denim jeans, flannel shirts and loose T-shirts. The twist? They are all meticulously crafted from leather – one leather shirt even underwent 12 layers of printing to achieve the desired “flannel” effect. And ’90s grunge poster child Kate Moss was roped in to walk the show for good measure.

Elsewhere, Erdem, London’s purveyor of pretty ensembles, went the rugged route with unfinished hems on coats and bustier gowns. Grunge (but) glam was the theme at Miu Miu, with distressed sweaters worn over embellished get-ups. At Burberry, the brand’s famous checkered pattern was rendered on a long slip dress and styled with an acid-wash denim jacket tied around the waist.