A new fashion trend called poetcore is emerging as a significant style statement among Generation Z, characterized by a shift towards nostalgic, grandmother-inspired clothing. This aesthetic emphasizes oversized sweaters, vintage blazers, and satchels, reflecting a desire for a more introspective and subdued wardrobe amid a hyper-digital world. The trend signals a departure from the flashy, party-centric fashions of recent years, embracing instead a softer, more thoughtful approach to personal style.
The poetcore movement is not just about clothing; it encapsulates a broader cultural yearning for substance and authenticity. Influenced by literary and cinematic works such as “Dead Poets Society,” “Saltburn,” and Donna Tartt’s “The Secret History,” poetcore prioritizes storytelling over spectacle. According to personal stylist Sabrina Morin, it represents “romantic intellect with restraint,” suggesting a depth that is both elegant and understated.
Fashion’s Cultural Shift
This trend has gained traction among celebrities as well. Notable figures such as Jenna Ortega have been spotted in pinstriped blazers and matching tights, while Taylor Swift has incorporated poetcore elements into her wardrobe, pairing tweed coats with cozy sweaters. Morin believes that poetcore allows wearers to express themselves without feeling the need to adhere to traditional fashion expectations.
Unlike past aesthetics that focused heavily on academia, poetcore integrates seamlessly into everyday life. Lamel “Melly” Adkins, a fashion designer, notes that poetcore “dresses for the heart” rather than solely for the mind. This fluidity allows individuals to wear poetcore pieces in various settings, from work to social gatherings, without the risk of appearing overly theatrical or out of place.
Embracing Individuality and Sustainability
The appeal of poetcore lies in its emphasis on contrast and personal expression. For fashion blogger Lauren Trivison, this aesthetic thrives on mixing thrifted items with delicate accessories, proving it is not necessary to overhaul one’s wardrobe but rather to reinterpret existing pieces. This approach resonates particularly with young adults and creatives, many of whom are drawn to analog hobbies and a slower pace of life.
PhD student Anya Galperin describes poetcore as a natural evolution of her style, moving from strictly academic attire to more relaxed, layered outfits that prioritize comfort. She views the trend as a rejection of ostentatious party culture, finding it a fitting way to express joy in her daily life.
The poetcore trend also aligns with a growing resistance to fast fashion. Many enthusiasts prioritize thrift shopping and repurposing inherited garments, creating wardrobes that feel personal and timeless. This movement has not gone unnoticed by major fashion houses. According to Morin, brands like Prada and Miu Miu are incorporating softer tailoring and muted colors into their collections, reflecting the shift towards more intellectual and thoughtful fashion choices.
Pinterest’s annual report has identified poetcore as a significant trend to watch in 2026, highlighting a surge in searches related to the aesthetic. As this movement evolves, it represents more than just a fleeting fashion statement; it embodies a broader cultural desire for authenticity, connection, and emotional expression through clothing.
In essence, poetcore encapsulates how individuals wish to be perceived in a noisy digital landscape: as curious, intentional, and quietly confident. This trend invites a return to the art of dressing thoughtfully, with a pen in hand and a phone placed aside.
