Executive summary

You’ve all said it at least once before: “Hey, I used to wear a pair of those.” And although it’s a particularly depressing feeling when you are old enough to see a fashion come around again, in today’s fast-paced, soon-bored world, it has become increasingly easy to feel ancient. The past is cooler than ever, and every industry looks back to previous trends to find inspiration for future ones. What was once outdated is now kitsch, what was once “so last season” has now become collectible.

Here is a look at five trends that have made a comeback (or two or three) over the years, from that bashed up pair of Converse All Stars you used to wear to school, to your mother’s garden clothesline. Welcome back to the future.