Indie Sleaze Is Officially Back—From Celebs to the Fall ’25 Runways

The year is 2009, and I’m lounging in my Barbiecore-themed bedroom while watching an episode of Gossip Girl. On the screen, the fictional character Jenny Humphrey wears a studded leather jacket, a baggy white T-shirt, a black mini skirt, and sheer tights. Her grungy getup is embellished with a skinny tie and a set of layered necklaces, perfectly capturing the essence of Y2K’s indie sleaze fashion trend.

Partially influenced by the gritty punk rock aesthetics of the ‘80s and ‘90s, the indie sleaze style of the early 2000s embraced a slightly disheveled appeal. Unpolished pieces like chaotic graphic tees and thigh-skimming plaid skirts were mismatched with grommet belts, moto boots, and other rugged accessories. Rooted in rebellion, this controversial trend existed at the intersection of self-expression and imperfection.

At the time, It girls like Alexa Chung and the Olsen twins were fervent advocates of indie sleaze, often giving the messy look a boho-chic twist with earth-toned cardigans and free-spirited dresses.

In 2025, a new cohort of celebrities seems to be reviving the alternative trend with a modern twist. Several months ago, Zoë Kravitz wore a ruffled off-the-shoulder Saint Laurent dress paired with a massive belt and gauzy hosiery. Bella Hadid recently slipped into a funky logo T-shirt matched with rugged cowboy boots and a distressed Balenciaga bag. While performing during her Brat Tour, Charli XCX flaunted a fringed Paolina Russo co-ord with biker boots.

Indie sleaze fashion has made its way onto the Fall 2025 runways, extending beyond celebrity circles. Designer brands like Isabel Marant, Chloé, and Alexander McQueen showcased leather pants, tartan skirts, and lace-trimmed slip dresses, with lingerie worn as outerwear being another distinctive feature of the 2000s-inspired style.

With an imminent indie sleaze resurgence approaching, it might be the perfect time to channel your inner Jenny Humphrey. Ahead, a curated selection of pieces to help you create a grunge-meets-glam wardrobe.

Punk Rock Mini Skirts

Swap your modest maxi skirts for shorter options made from textured leather, plaid fabric, and dark wash denim. Pair your chosen skirt with sheer stockings to add extra style points.

Graphic T-Shirts

In the indie sleaze era, graphic T-shirts were all the rage. If you’re ready to make a statement, consider one of the designs below. Let your top take center stage by completing your look with pared-down bottoms.

Slouchy Hobo Bags

Indie sleaze fashion is all about manifesting a nonchalant attitude. You can do just that with a slouchy hobo bag that radiates a laid-back vibe. Keep it simple with a no-frills design, or elevate your style with tassels and metal hardware.

Grunge Shoes

When you think of indie sleaze shoes, buckled motos and Western-style Chelsea boots might come to mind. But don’t overlook Converse Chuck Taylors, which are also a hallmark of the bold aesthetic.

Edgy Dresses

Indie sleaze dresses have a slightly distressed edge. Whether you opt for a frilly lace frock or a ruffled gingham dress, the aim is to avoid anything too sophisticated.

Eye-Catching Accessories

There’s nothing subtle about indie sleaze accessories. Maximalist pieces like chunky chain necklaces, studded belts, and oversized sunglasses instantly draw attention.

Translucent Tights

Nothing embodies Tumblr-coded fashion quite like sheer tights. Opt for a pair of mesh stockings to achieve a more under-the-radar look, or try a fishnet option if you aren’t afraid to stand out from the crowd.