Minneapolis Street Style: Trends Spotted at ‘Creative Renaissance’

The best-dressed attendees at Fashion Week Minnesota’s closing show set the tone for the forthcoming season of fashion

Last Saturday night, Minnesota creatives far and wide convened for one of the state’s biggest nights of fashion, Fashion Week Minnesota‘s “Creative Renaissance,” staged among the galleries of the Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia). And as guests ascended the dramatic stone steps of Mia’s entrance— illuminated by custom projection art by Future Projections—it was clear the runway would not be the only place trends came to life that night.

Fashion Week Minnesota’s notoriously welcoming spirit—drawing curious creatives from across the Midwest—is reflected each season through the eclectic gallery of style put forth by its attendees, representing a mingling of cultures, personalities, and aesthetics. As Fashion Week Minnesota’s official press sponsor, we rounded up some of our favorite street style looks from the night, offering local inspiration for the forthcoming season of fashion.

Trend: Head to Toe 

Whether it was in the form of chic berets, detailed headbands, or statement headpieces (see below right) attendees set a new sartorial rule for the season— an ensemble is not complete until one’s head is outfitted. Replicate this trend locally by sourcing from independent headwear designers like Karen Morris Millinery and Celina Kane.

Trend: Western Chic 

Call it the lingering influence of Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter,” but western hats, boots, and belts were a recurring theme of the night, in many cases mixed with high-glam couture to create a compelling juxtaposition of styles. Shop the trend locally at vintage hot spots like Queenie & Pearl and Moth Oddities.

Photo by Wilanrie B. Photography

Trend: Statement Sleeves

A staple of the 80s, big sleeves have been steadily reappearing in high fashion this season, likely as a rejection of the more subdued quiet luxury trend that ruled 2023. Rosella vintage owner Jahna Peloquin offered a nostalgic take on the trend with her vintage ensemble (above left), while various modern representations proved the maximalist look to be a fixed tenant in this season’s trend queue.

Photo by Alexander Just

photo by Alexander Just

Trend: Subtly Sporty 

Recently chronicled in our après sport trend overview, it seems the crossover between sport and high fashion is only getting started, represented Saturday night through nostalgic varsity jackets, oversized hoodies, basketball jerseys, and sleek racing jackets (above left). Shop the aesthetic locally through Venci, an independent label founded by Minnesota United player DJ Taylor.

photo by Sheldon J. Powell; The Honeybear Collection

Trend: Sequins and Sparkles

Coinciding with the rise of statement sleeves, the reemergence of shimmering textures proves that the fashion world is ready to embrace maximalism again. Sequins, rhinestones, and sparkling fabrics were so prominent Saturday night that they may as well have been considered a neutral— a mindset which will likely ring true into the fall and winter seasons of fashion. Local shops including Olio Vintage, The Fitting Room, and Serge + Jane are notorious for their endorsement of all things shimmering.

Trend: Big and Bold Accessorizing  

Attendees made clear that bigger is better when it comes to accessories this season, with long drop earrings, chunky belts, and stacked necklaces emerging as stars of the street style runway. Get the look this winter at local boutique Larissa Loden or from independent makers including Nashipai and Corazon Clothing. 

Photo by Wilanrie B. Photography

Trend: A Hint of Lace 

Sheer fabrics have been a popular trend since the start of 2023, and it appears that lace will be one of its preferred representations this season. Incorporating a subtle pop of lace, whether peeking out from beneath a midi dress (below right) or layered underneath a statement jacket (below left) is a simple way to elevate basic ensembles this season.

As Minnesota Monthly's Style Editor, Emma keeps a close pulse on all things retail, style, and fashion in the Twin Cities and beyond. Since graduating from Miami University in 2022 with degrees in English Literature and Media and Culture, Emma has accumulated a wealth of experience in both the editorial and fashion industries, including producing a soldout runway show for Fashion Week Minnesota. She harnesses this experience, as well as her passion for storytelling, to communicate the diverse perspectives of individuals who have helped shape the Minnesota fashion scene and its one-of-a-kind events, brands, and businesses. When she is not writing, you might find Emma at a yoga class, thrifting, walking her Bernese Mountain Dog, traveling, or drinking overpriced coffee. You will never see her in the same outfit twice.