We all know about the 20-year rule in fashion, but what about the 1000-year rule?
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If you were watching the 2025 Grammy Awards, you probably saw Chappell Roan’s inspiring speech when she accepted her Best New Artist award (deserved BTW). The Midwest Princess served a different kind of princess during her speech, as she was giving us pure medieval fantasy, complete with a hennin (the pointy princess hat) that fell off. This wasn’t Chappell’s first rodeo into the Middle Ages, as she wore a Joan of Arc inspired ‘fit for her 2024 VMA performance of her mega-hit Good Luck Babe! as well as her flowy princess-esque dress from Y/Project for the red carpet, complete with a sword for the full fantasy.
If anything, this proves that fashion has a new darling: Medievalcore. Many fashion lovers have been predicting that Medievalcore will be one of 2025’s rising trends, and it’s not hard to see why. Whether you want to be a pretty princess or a knight in shining armor, there is endless inspiration for this rising aesthetic.
A SEAT AT THE (FASHION) ROUND TABLE
Medievalcore’s popularity has been brewing; perhaps this fashion potion is just about ready. But what exactly pushed it under the spotlight? It’s several things. Firstly, other fashion subcultures like Whimsigoth and Dark Academia prove that many people love looks that are grand and different. Secondly, turning to the past for fashion inspiration has been an ongoing practice for decades. One example is the Y2K aesthetic, which blew up at the beginning of the 2020s.
We’re also not the first generation to do our spin on medieval fashion. The 1960s had the Medieval Revival, which influenced general pop culture. Trends of the time include bell sleeves, peasant blouses, and empire waists. Other decade trends like Boho, Mod, and Psychedelia also mixed medieval aesthetics into their looks. Musical icons like The Beatles wore clothes with these influences during the time.
The 60s looked at the Middle Ages and interpreted the era as romantic and bright, which the youth viewed as inspiration. Gen Z, on the other hand, has seemingly been more attracted to its darker aspects. Or at least, has an affinity for looking like a knight. With films like Nosferatu making a splash amongst the current generation, it could be a sign that we’re ready to embrace the Dark Ages when it comes to our clothes. But even so, the idea of being a pretty princess is still a dream for many people, as it has remained popular in fashion. Either way, Medievalcore has something for everyone, which makes it such an interesting aesthetic for many people.
CHAINMAIL, HENNINS, OH MY
So, what exactly are the pieces people are fawning over? As mentioned earlier, hennins have become a favorite on TikTok. Hennins were worn to symbolize status amongst women. Coming in different shapes, it was the ultimate head-topper of the time. Our current obsession is with the version shaped like a cone with a thin veil draping over it. With its simple design, it’s become a go-to for people to recreate.
@tothemoonanddtosaturn so fun @Maddy #hennin #princesshats ♬ som original – Vbedit.x
Made of linked metal rings, chainmail served as armor for knights and other military men to shield themselves from weapons like swords. While it was meant to protect, it also has been able to serve looks. The material has been a favorite on runways, as its interesting texture and shine make an outfit look chic. While not exclusive to Medievalcore, chainmail accessories have been trending with people getting extra creative by creating their own pieces, from jewelry to full-on headpieces.
@alaishatabina I’ll be making a lot of headpieces like this in the future i love it so muchhh. Check out my jewelry shop saturnslane on ig⚜️🌹
♬ Golden brown by the stranglers – ꧁rosyapple2꧂
Some people have taken the trend to another level in more dedicated circles by embodying knights, princesses, and jesters. Yes, court jesters. If anything, we might have been slowly starting to dress up like them due to wearing other trends, such as brightly colored tights.
WILL THIS LOOK CONTINUE IT’S REIGN?
Medievalcore’s aesthetic is quite specific. It will most likely remain a favorite on the runway as it is a style that allows designers to unlock their creativity. Artists have also leaned into it for their visuals, such as Lucy Dacus for her Ankles MV. For everyday wear, though, that’s another question.
Trends do not dictate what you should and should not wear. For all we know, this look might suddenly fall out of fashion. However, figuring out whether you see yourself wearing these pieces in the long run is not something to scoff at. We don’t want to fall into what could very much be a microtrend.
If you wish to participate in the trend, consider looking for smaller pieces you can see yourself wearing with your existing wardrobe. Being able to explore fashion and trends is fun, but making sure we’re being responsible and sustainable is essential as well.
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