Not a Sweatshirt, Not a Blazer: The In-Between Fashion Trend

Picture this: It’s a Monday morning at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and the security line snakes past the giant bronze sculpture of Barbara Jordan. Among the usual parade of hoodies and sneakers, a fresh silhouette stands out—baggy trousers with a single red stripe down the side, paired with a sleek black tube top. No blazer, no sweatshirt, just an in-between layering that’s equal parts effortless and intentional. That’s the look Emily Ratajkowski wore to Paris Fashion Week last week, and if the fashion algorithms are any indication, it’s about to become the unofficial uniform of Austin’s creative class.

This isn’t just another celebrity trend trickling down from the runways of Europe. It’s a sartorial shift that’s already reshaping how Austinites—from tech founders to musicians—navigate the city’s increasingly blurred lines between perform, travel, and leisure. The “in-between” trend, as it’s being called, reflects a broader cultural moment where the boundaries between professional and personal style are dissolving faster than a Texas ice storm in March. And in a city where the average resident spends more time in transit than in a traditional office, what you wear to the airport isn’t just about comfort—it’s about signaling identity, adaptability, and a certain kind of understated cool.

The Austin Paradox: Why This Trend Resonates Here

Austin’s relationship with fashion has always been a study in contrasts. On one hand, you’ve got the city’s reputation as a hub for tech bros in Patagonia vests and musicians in vintage band tees. On the other, there’s the growing influence of transplants from coastal cities who bring with them a more polished, fashion-forward sensibility. The result? A style ecosystem that’s as eclectic as the city’s food scene, where a pair of cowboy boots can coexist with a designer handbag on the same person.

The “in-between” trend—characterized by elevated basics like tube tops, baggy trousers with subtle detailing, and layering pieces that aren’t quite blazers or sweatshirts—speaks directly to this paradox. It’s a look that says, “I’m put-together, but not trying too hard,” which is essentially the unofficial motto of Austin’s creative economy. Think about it: The city’s most influential figures—whether they’re coding at a startup in The Domain or performing at ACL—need a wardrobe that can transition seamlessly from a client meeting to a food truck crawl on South Congress. A tube top paired with tailored trousers checks that box in a way that a hoodie or a full suit simply can’t.

This trend also aligns with Austin’s broader cultural values. The city has long been a magnet for people who reject rigid categories—whether that’s in their careers, their politics, or their personal style. The “in-between” look embodies that ethos. It’s not about conforming to a single aesthetic; it’s about mixing high and low, formal and casual, in a way that feels authentic to the wearer. That’s why you’re seeing it pop up everywhere from the halls of the Texas Capitol (where lobbyists are swapping their power suits for more relaxed silhouettes) to the stages of South by Southwest (where musicians are embracing the trend as a way to stand out in a sea of denim and leather).

The Economic Ripple Effect: How Austin’s Retailers Are Adapting

For Austin’s local retailers, the rise of the “in-between” trend is both an opportunity and a challenge. On one hand, it’s driving demand for pieces that don’t fit neatly into traditional categories. On the other, it’s forcing stores to rethink how they merchandise and market their inventory. Take local boutiques like ByGeorge and Kick Pleat, which have long been go-to destinations for Austinites looking to blend high fashion with Texas sensibilities. Both stores have reported a surge in sales of elevated basics—think silk cami tops, wide-leg trousers with unexpected details, and lightweight jackets that straddle the line between structured and relaxed.

“We’ve seen a 30% increase in demand for what we call ‘transitional pieces’ over the past six months,” says a buyer for ByGeorge, who notes that customers are increasingly looking for items that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. “Austin is a city where people want to look good, but they don’t want to sacrifice comfort. The ‘in-between’ trend is perfect for that.”

This shift is also benefiting Austin’s thriving secondhand and vintage market. Stores like Charm School Vintage and Chestnut’s have seen a spike in interest for vintage designer pieces that fit the trend—think Yohji Yamamoto trousers or Helmut Lang tops from the early 2000s. “People are looking for pieces with a story, something that feels unique but still versatile,” says the owner of Charm School Vintage. “The ‘in-between’ trend is all about individuality, and vintage is the perfect way to express that.”

Even Austin’s larger retailers are taking notice. Nordstrom at The Domain has started curating “airport-ready” edits in its stores, featuring pieces that align with the trend. Meanwhile, local designers like Cynthia Rowley, who splits her time between New York and Austin, have begun incorporating the trend into their collections, offering Austinites a way to embrace the look whereas supporting homegrown talent.

The Social Media Factor: How Austin’s Influencers Are Amplifying the Trend

No trend would be complete without the influence of social media, and Austin’s digital scene is playing a pivotal role in popularizing the “in-between” look. Local influencers like @austindapper (a menswear-focused account with over 50K followers) and @atxstyle (a women’s fashion account with a similar reach) have been quick to embrace the trend, posting outfit inspiration that blends the city’s laid-back vibe with the polished elements of the look.

But it’s not just about aesthetics. Austin’s influencers are also using the trend to highlight the city’s unique cultural identity. For example, @austindapper has been pairing baggy trousers with vintage band tees from local acts like Black Pumas or Shinyribs, creating a fusion of high fashion and Austin’s music scene. Meanwhile, @atxstyle has been showcasing how the trend can be adapted for the city’s unpredictable weather—layering tube tops with lightweight kimonos or oversized button-downs for those rare chilly mornings.

The trend has also found a home on TikTok, where Austin-based creators are putting their own spin on it. Hashtags like #ATXAirportStyle and #InBetweenTrendATX have started gaining traction, with users sharing their takes on the look. One viral video, posted by a local flight attendant, shows how she styles the trend for her commute to Austin-Bergstrom, swapping out a tube top for a fitted turtleneck when the AC on her flight is too strong. The video has over 200K views and counting, proving that the trend isn’t just for celebrities—it’s for anyone who wants to look put-together without sacrificing comfort.

The Dark Side: When Trends Collide With Reality

Of course, no trend is without its pitfalls. In Austin, where the cost of living has skyrocketed in recent years, the “in-between” trend has sparked conversations about accessibility and affordability. While the look is undeniably stylish, some of the key pieces—like designer trousers or high-end tube tops—can come with a hefty price tag. This has led to a growing divide between those who can afford to participate in the trend and those who feel priced out.

“Fashion should be inclusive, but when a trend is driven by high-end pieces, it can feel exclusionary,” says a local stylist who works with clients across Austin’s socioeconomic spectrum. “The good news is that Austin has a strong thrift and vintage culture, which makes it easier for people to discover affordable alternatives. But it’s still a challenge for those who don’t have the time or resources to hunt for the perfect piece.”

There’s also the question of sustainability. Austin has long been a leader in eco-conscious fashion, with initiatives like Fashion Revolution Austin and Sustainable Fashion Forum advocating for more ethical and sustainable practices in the industry. The “in-between” trend, with its focus on versatility and longevity, aligns well with these values—but only if consumers are mindful about where they’re sourcing their pieces. “The key is to invest in quality items that you’ll wear for years, not just a season,” says the founder of Fashion Revolution Austin. “That’s how you produce the trend work for both your wardrobe and the planet.”

How Austin’s Workforce Is Embracing the Trend

Perhaps the most surprising impact of the “in-between” trend is how it’s reshaping Austin’s professional landscape. In a city where remote work and hybrid schedules are the norm, the traditional office dress code has all but disappeared. But that doesn’t mean people are showing up to Zoom calls in pajamas. Instead, they’re adopting the “in-between” look as a way to signal professionalism without sacrificing comfort.

Take the case of Bumble, the Austin-based dating app company, where employees have been spotted wearing the trend to both in-person meetings and virtual calls. “We’ve always had a casual dress code, but the ‘in-between’ trend has taken it to the next level,” says a Bumble employee. “It’s a way to show that you’re put-together without being overly formal. Plus, it’s perfect for our culture, where you might have a meeting with a colleague in Berlin one minute and a brainstorming session at a coffee shop on East 6th the next.”

The trend is also making waves in Austin’s creative industries. At SXSW, where networking is key, attendees have been using the “in-between” look to stand out in a sea of badges and lanyards. “It’s a way to make a statement without saying a word,” says a local filmmaker who attended this year’s festival. “When you’re meeting with potential collaborators or investors, you want to look like you belong, but you also want to show that you have your own unique style. The ‘in-between’ trend lets you do both.”

Given My Background in Urban Culture and Local Economics, Here’s How to Navigate This Trend in Austin

If you’re an Austinite looking to embrace the “in-between” trend, you’re in luck. The city’s fashion ecosystem is uniquely positioned to help you pull it off—whether you’re a seasoned stylist or a complete novice. But with so many options, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here are the three types of local professionals you should consider working with to make the trend work for you:

Boutique Stylists with a Local Focus

These aren’t your typical stylists—they’re experts in curating looks that reflect Austin’s unique blend of high fashion and laid-back vibes. When hiring one, look for someone who:

• Has a deep understanding of Austin’s cultural landscape, including its music, tech, and food scenes.
• Can source pieces from local boutiques and vintage stores, not just big-box retailers.
• Offers virtual styling sessions, which are perfect for Austin’s remote and hybrid workforce.
• Has experience working with clients across different budgets, from college students to tech executives.

Pro tip: Ask for a “capsule wardrobe” consultation, where the stylist helps you build a collection of versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple “in-between” looks.

Sustainable Fashion Consultants

If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of your wardrobe, a sustainable fashion consultant can help you embrace the trend without compromising your values. Look for someone who:

• Has a background in ethical fashion and can recommend brands that prioritize sustainability.
• Can guide you toward secondhand and vintage pieces that fit the trend.
• Offers “wardrobe audits,” where they help you assess what you already own and how to incorporate it into the trend.
• Is connected to Austin’s thriving upcycling and repair community, so you can extend the life of your existing pieces.

Pro tip: Ask about “slow fashion” workshops, where you can learn how to care for your clothes in a way that minimizes waste.

Image Consultants for Professionals

For those who want to use the “in-between” trend to elevate their professional image, an image consultant can help you strike the right balance between polished and approachable. Look for someone who:

• Has experience working with Austin’s tech, creative, and startup communities.
• Understands the nuances of virtual and in-person professional settings.
• Can help you adapt the trend for different occasions, from client meetings to networking events.
• Offers “brand alignment” services, where they help you define your personal style in a way that aligns with your professional goals.

Pro tip: Ask for a “color analysis” session, where the consultant helps you identify the shades that complement your skin tone and work best for the “in-between” trend.

Ready to find trusted professionals? Browse our complete directory of top-rated fashion experts in the Austin area today.