Your 2023 Guide the Synthwave Aesthetic

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel back in time to the 80s? Well, with synthwave fashion, you can do just that.

Synthwave is an aesthetic that evokes nostalgia for ’80s and early ’90s pop culture, mainly movies and music and the new infatuation with technology.

If you’re someone who doesn’t mind techwear or streetwear and are looking to add some vintage flair to your wardrobe, give the synthwave aesthetic a try! Here’s all you need to know about styling this trend.

What is the Vibe?

Synthwave fashion aesthetic is similar to vaporwave fashion - sometimes even used interchangeably. But synthwave takes more of its cues from classic sci-fi and horror films of the 1980s.

There are still some neon colors, oversized silhouettes and dark hues - but the retro references are more important than any specific vibe.

As opposed to vaporwave, in synthwave the dreamy vibe is usually completely gone.

It’s just about fun though. So, you get to wear metallic fabrics, some crazy sunglasses and most of all, lighter colors in synthwave as well.

Print hoodie via Etsy: NavunoStore

Minimalist crop hoodie via Etsy: DigitalHeartMachine

Print hoodie via Etsy: NavunoStore

Print tee via Etsy: ImagineArtApparel

Neon windbreaker via Etsy: SickSadWorld912

Synthwave hoodie via Etsy: THRYLOSHOP

Where did it come from?

The synthwave style was popularized by electronic musicians in the late 2000s who sought to create a sound reminiscent of 1980s new wave music.

The genre quickly gained traction as fans discovered its nostalgic qualities and vibrant visuals. As more people began listening to synthwave music, they adopted aspects of its aesthetic into their own wardrobes—and thus, synthwave fashion was born.

In the 2023 iteration, synthwave is getting fused with streetwear. That’s probably why the most searched-for synthwave garment is a synthwave hoodie.

Synthwave hoodie via Etsy: NavunoStore

Etsy: Anonic

How do I Style It?

To style your clothes to hit the synth vibe, start by pairing bold statement pieces with timeless basics like blazers or plain tees.

Add pops of color with accessories like bright shoes or jewelry.

Don’t be afraid to incorporate vintage elements into your outfit - think bum bags, rectangular sunglasses or just plain techcore elements.

Finally, don’t forget about makeup! Synthwave looks are often paired with neon eye shadows or lipsticks for an extra dose of drama.

If you’re looking for a way to make a statement without having to spend too much money on clothes or accessories, synthwave fashion is perfect for you! With its emphasis on bold colors and vintage silhouettes, this trend will help you stand out from the crowd while still looking effortlessly cool. So don’t be afraid to take some risks when piecing together your next outfit—you never know what kind of looks you can create until you try them out!