2024 TREND PREDICTIONS: AUDIOBOOKS, BOWS, & BADMINTON
It's that time of year again—Spotify Wrapped has finally dropped, companies are releasing their yearly round-ups, and others are already prepping their mood boards for the new year.
And based on the current trend forecast, 2024 is already looking like the year of self-care and self-indulgence.
AUDIOBOOKS ARE IN!
You heard me. Audiobooks will be among some of the most digested forms of media in 2024.
Throughout the pandemic, BookTok flipped the publishing industry on its head. Creators sharing their reactions to their current reads intrigued viewers. People were inspired to read again, simply out of the desire to escape the state of the world and to immerse themselves in community.
Fast forward to the present, and we are back to how life once was (at least, that is what we would like to think). Normalcy was the negotiation of our little enjoyments. The time we once had to read has slowly been taken up by our return to the office and other commitments or tasks.
The solution? Multitasking.
Many have turned towards listening to audiobooks, in an attempt to resume their reading habits while taking part in everyday chores. Harper Collins reported audiobook sales have risen by over 25% since 2021 and continue to grow year after year.
bow down
The evolution of ballet core in 2023 has led to a new, delicate aesthetic that will be all the rage next year; “bow stacking”.
From hairstyles to DIYs, do not be surprised if you find an array of bows everywhere you go. Pinterest Predicts wrote that “Millennials and Gen Z will embrace the art of "bow stacking" as they adorn their outfits, shoes, hair, and jewelry with this detail.”
The inspiration stems from musicians like Lana Del Ray and Gracie Abrams, who have incorporated this look into their stage fits from the beginning of their careers. Because of their prominence and influence in the industry right now, it is no wonder why we are seeing the sudden shift from powerful, bold looks to soft, gentle ones emerge.
What I love about this trend is its versatility. Accessorizing with bows serves as its own form of creativity. No matter the season or occasion, any look can be pulled together with a bow.
WHAT’S WITH ALL THE RAcQUET?
Pickleball was all the rage in 2023, but don’t be surprised if you begin to see that interest expanding into other racquet sports in the New Year.
According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SIFA), racquet sport participation has grown by 158.6% in the last three years and continues to be one of the fastest-growing sports in America.
Due to its simplicity, the games provide a fun, active outlet for a range of ages to participate. On top of being extremely accessible, the equipment is fairly inexpensive. Paddles and racquets range from $10-30 on the low end.
It is also safe to say that the achievements made by notable athletes may also be of influence to the sports’ rapidly growing popularity. At the US Open, Novak Djokovic won his 24th Grand Slam title, while rising star, Coco Gauff, made her mark by winning her first US championship.
Overall, the correlation between these trends is tied to the ideals of treating ourselves with more care in the New Year (both physically and mentally). Whether it be through our hobbies or how we dress, 2024 looks like the year we attempt to find a gentle balance between our well-being and personal luxuries.
