Sophia Michaels
Joanna Gaines often reflects her interior design preferences in her fashion choices, blending various retro styles. While her favorite design elements, like shiplap, have historical roots, her wardrobe features clothing that harks back to trends more prevalent in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Hypothetically, if Joanna were to channel a Viking-inspired look, it might be amusing, but her outfits typically resemble contemporary casual styles.
In her shows, she aims for rustic yet modern aesthetics. This philosophy also translates to her own clothing, which often comprises muted colors. In a 2017 Instagram post, she showcased six shirts she wore throughout a week—all in shades of gray or blue, either button-ups or loose V-necks. Joanna expressed that these choices require little thought, but admitted that sticking to such safe styles can lead to a monotonous appearance: “I’m sure that anyone who saw me this week would assume I was basically wearing the same outfit every day,” she reflected.
Although both Joanna and Chip have adopted updated fashion since their HGTV debut, Joanna often chooses styles that may feel somewhat outdated when she ventures beyond her usual aesthetic.
Red made a rare appearance in one of her retro ensembles
In a 2017 Instagram post, Joanna styled an outfit that paid homage to her college days in the late ’90s, complete with pieces reminiscent of ’70s fashion. The standout element was her footwear—a pair of peep-toe heeled sandals with wooden soles—an iconic choice that many may recall from their school days.
She paired these with wide-leg jeans and a tie-front top, evoking nostalgia, but the overall look felt incomplete. The cropped length of her jeans might have fit right into a vintage catalog, yet the plaid pattern of her top seemed more appropriate for a cozy throw blanket than an outfit. Additionally, the bold red color strayed from her preferred palette of black, white, and denim. “Typically, I like to stick to those,” she explained in a video on her Magnolia channel, indicating that her occasional foray into red is rare.
She nailed the vacationing ’90s mom look
In a 2023 Instagram post, Joanna took on the vibe of a quintessential ’90s mom enjoying a day at a theme park, adorned in clothing reminiscent of that decade. She wore a simple white tank top, perfect for staying cool while waiting in line, alongside baggy high-waisted jean shorts that were a staple of ’90s fashion.
Joanna’s fashion, however, included some dated details. Although her rolled-up jean shorts added a contemporary twist, the plaid shirt tied around her waist dulled the overall look. As for accessories, her baseball cap and sunglasses combination, along with a pair of Birkenstocks, leaned heavily into the “soccer mom” aesthetic. Despite any missteps, Joanna shared that she loves her Birkenstock Arizonas, which have made a comeback in popularity, proving that even the classics can find their way back into fashion.
Birkenstocks: The Go-To Footwear for Comfort
As reported by CBS News, the footwear brand Birkenstock has gained popularity among social media stars and models for its emphasis on comfort rather than style. They are particularly ideal for mothers on the go, needing comfortable shoes for long days on their feet.
A Look Back at Royal Fashion Trends
During a Build Series interview in 2016, Joanna Gaines showcased a stylish outfit consisting of a white sweater, tan suede heels, and a rich pine green pleated skirt. This skirt style was reminiscent of those worn by Princess Diana in the early ’90s, establishing a trend that resonated with women in their 20s and 30s during that time.
Kate Middleton, known for referencing Diana’s fashion choices, also favors pleated maxi skirts. However, these styles no longer evoke the same fashionable aura as they did previously; they now remind many of outdated attire. The garments seem more suited to middle school teachers from the past, rather than trendsetters.
Meghan Markle, another royal, appears to be inspired by Gaines with her lifestyle brand; perhaps she could recycle this style to pay tribute to both Gaines and her husband’s mother.
If Winona Ryder Were in The Devil Wears Prada
During her book promotion, Joanna Gaines adopted a style reminiscent of Winona Ryder’s looks while dating Johnny Depp. In her 2022 photographs, she showcased a dark outfit that felt nostalgic of the ’90s.
Interestingly, from the waist down, her fashion echoed Anne Hathaway’s character’s transformation in “The Devil Wears Prada.” The tweed wrap mini skirt she wore was a catchy yet outdated choice. While the ensemble referenced prior styles, it may not hold as much appeal in today’s fashion landscape.
An Update Needed for Farm Life Fashion
While Joanna Gaines excelled at transforming farms into appealing getaways, her ‘farm life’ style, particularly skinny overalls, lacked a modern touch. In a 2016 post, she demonstrated an outfit that missed the mark for contemporary farmwear.
The overalls featured an awkward cut that is no longer trendy, further complicated by brown ankle boots and an unfashionable long-sleeved gray shirt. Additionally, her snapback hat evoked memories of early 2000s fashion, making her look less like a farmer and more like someone dressing up for a role.
