You’ve probably heard of the word “Alté” before but you can’t seem to wrap your mind around it. And hey, if this term is completely new to you, prepare to be enlightened because I’ll be delving into how this incredible fashion movement has taken the world by surprise.
I’ll be honest, when I first stumbled across Alté fashion on my Instagram feed, I was equal parts confused and fascinated. Here were these incredibly stylish people wearing what looked like a beautiful collision between vintage, casual, Baggy and sometime what seems like a rock outfit. And somehow, it all just worked so perfectly together!
So What Exactly is Alté? (And Why Should You Even Care?)
Let me break it down for you in the simplest way possible. “Alté” is short for “alternative,” and trust me, it’s so much more than just wearing some crazy jeans. This whole movement started with the Nigerian youth and describes a unique sense of fashion which is “not confined”.
Think of Alté as fashion rebellion with a purpose. The beauty of this style is that it celebrates being different, being creative, and most importantly, being unapologetically yourself.
Remember when we would stop wearing our favourite clothes because it had holes in them? Well, Alte fashion turns that particular imperfection around and makes it unique and Iconic. Alté fashion basically gives its middle finger to any sort of conformity.
Alté Looks That Are Absolutely Slaying Right Now
Here are the hottest Alté looks that are having their moment (and honestly, I don’t see them going anywhere anytime soon).
1. Baggy on Baggy Everything
Forget everything you learned about “flattering your figure”. Alté is all about comfort meets cool. Think oversized sweat shirt and baggy jeans that could fit two of you. Now that’s Alte!
Alte fashion definitely showed us that Baggy and Baggy can look good, the trick is balancing the proportions so you look intentionally cool, not like you’re drowning in fabric.
2. The Cropped Blazer
This isn’t your typical corporate blazer. I’m talking about blazers that stop right at your tummy, perfectly paired with high-waisted everything. The key is finding one with interesting details, think oversized shoulders, unique buttons, or unexpected colors.
3. Skirt Over Jeans (Yes, Really!)
I know, I know your brain might be saying “that doesn’t make sense,” but trust me on this one. Layer a short flowy midi skirt over your favorite pair of jeans and you get a unique sense of style that’s really chic.
4. The Vintage Band Tee
Grab that old band t-shirt (or hunt for one at your local thrift store) and give it the Alté treatment. Knot it at the waist, layer it under a mesh top, or wear it oversized. The more faded and worn out it looks, the better!
5. Layered Chaos That Somehow Works.
Multiple necklaces, rings on every finger, belts over blazers, socks over tights. If it sounds like too much, you’re probably on the right track. The Alté aesthetic thrives on that “I grabbed everything I loved and put it on” energy, but there’s definitely an art to making it look intentional rather than accidental.
6. Dresses over jeans.
Long dresses over jeans are also a part of Alte dressing. It gives an edgy look that says “I can be sophisticated but also bold”.
The Best Part About Alte Movement
What I love most about Alté fashion is how it celebrates individuality without trying to put you in a box. It’s not about following a strict set of rules, it’s about taking inspiration and making it completely your own.
The best part is there’s literally no wrong way to do it. Also keep in mind when venturing into the Alte fashion that confidence is your best accessory, no matter what style you’re rocking. Whether you go full Alté or just sprinkle in a few elements here and there, the most important thing is that you feel like the amazing, unique person you are.
