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Think fanny packs, “rad pants” and colourblocked fleece.
The colourful, free-flowing fashion trends of the ’70s, ’80s and’90s are exactly my vibe (read: delightfully obnoxious). Unfortunately, I was not old enough to dress myself during that time period. I’m a late-’90s baby, so I arrived on the fashion scene just in time for Uggs, jeggings and cyberbullying. Awesome.
But trends always come back (I tell myself as my hoarding of clothes slowly becomes a serious problem), and MEC’s 2022 Classics Collection is proof. For this launch—technically a relaunch—the MEC team dug into the archives, finding the best picks from old catalogues and revamping them for 2022.
There’s a heavy outdoor, on-the-go influence in the collection—think hardy fabrics and pockets. Jeggings, see you in hell).
Here are some of my favourites.
MEC Classics Collection Rad Shorts
The Rad Shorts come straight from the MEC catalogue published the year I was born, so I’m feeling some extra kinship with them. They come in bright yellow (my favourite colour) and have three pockets, plus an integrated belt that is borderline ugly but hey, what’s fashion without a little risk? At least you’re not risking your shorts falling down.
MEC Classics Collection Hip Pack
We all know these as “fanny packs,” right? Lulu, you’re not fooling anyone by calling it a belt bag. Whatever the name, I think we should all collectively agree to deem these permanently stylish. They are simply too handy to be relegated back to nerdy stepdad status. MEC’s version embraces colour in a brave and beautiful way.
MEC Classics Collection All Over Print Tee
This bright t-shirt reminds me of a bowling alley carpet, without the nacho grease. (Sidenote: has anyone recently thought about the pre-COVID phenomenon of sticking your fingers in damp bowling ball holes and then eating cheesy chips? Now you have. You’re welcome.) The triangular pattern is actually the MEC logo, which is understated branding I’m very much into.
MEC Classics Collection Berber Fleece Full Zip
Great for camping or looking like you’re a person who likes camping. This fleece zip-up has elbow patches (fashion!) and armpit vents (function!). It’s a revamp of the Cornice jacket, but this version is made with recycled materials.
MEC’s Classics Collection launches August 12—you can find it in-store and online at mec.ca.
