As 2024 quickly comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the standout moments that defined the year across fashion, music and the internet. From the best runway look to the album that had us pressing repeat, we’ve rounded up the best of 2024 in each category. Here’s a look at the most memorable and meme-able moments.
Best Overall Designer: Miu Miu
Under the creative direction of Miuccia Prada, Miu Miu continues to be one of our favorite luxury brands, consistently delivering beautiful collections year after year. Always in awe of their ability to merge modernity with nostalgia, the house is our pick for the best overall designer of 2024.
Best Emerging Designer: Diotima
Diotima is one of the most exciting new names in fashion. Founded by designers Camilla Bianchi and Maria Teresa Andriani, the brand quickly became a favorite for its mix of bold silhouettes, intricate detailing and sustainable practices.
Best Beauty Brand: Pat McGrath
Pat McGrath has had quite the year. We saw her all over last fashion month, as she did the makeup for shows like Saint Laurent and Bottega Veneta. Additionally, her brand Pat McGrath Labs creates stunning products that blend high-fashion with everyday wearibility, which has made it a go-to for both runways and everyday makeup looks. From fashion shows to product launches, 2024 was iconic for McGrath.
Song of the Year: “Not Like Us” by Kendrick Lamar
A track that had us pressing repeat, “Not Like Us” by Kendrick Lamar was one of the most defining songs of the year.
Album of the Year: Alligator Bites Never Heal by Doechii
Doechii’s Alligator Bites Never Heal is a genre-bending masterpiece that earned critical acclaim across the board. With this album, the visionary artist has solidifed her place as one of the most exciting artists of the year.
Movie of the Year: Wicked
Wicked made its long-awaited debut on the big screen in 2024, and it lived up to all of the hype. Recieving widespread acclaim, the adaptation had it all: breathtaking visuals, outstanding performances, an unforgettable soundtrack and emotional stakes. More than just a film, it became a cultural moment, making it one of our picks for best of 2024.
Pop Culture Moments of the Year: Brat Summer & Lookalike Contest
First, Charli xcx made her mark with the release of her album Brat. Since then, the term “brat summer” took over, making it one of the biggest pop culture moments of the year. Following that, this fall, the Timothée Chalamet lookalike contest went viral, and since then we’ve seen so many spin-off contests. Both moments were defining headlines of the year.
Meme of the Year: Demure
Since going viral on TikTok, the phrase “Very Demure, Very Mindful” has quickly become one of the most popular expressions of the year. Originally coined by Jools Lebron, it has since taken on a life of its own, inspiring everything from merchandise collections to widespread cultural usage. In fact, the phrase has gained such significant traction that it’s even been crowned Dictionary.com’s Word of the Year, solidifying its place in 2024 pop culture.
Fashion Moment of the Year: Bella Hadid’s Saint Laurent Runway Comeback
Bella Hadid made her highly anticipated return to the runway for Saint Laurent at Paris Fashion Week in September. Making the case for oversized suits in womenswear, this was the top fashion moment of the year.
Best Red Carpet Look: Zendaya in Mugler at the Dune premiere
Zendaya’s look at the Dune premiere was the best red carpet-look of 2024. Wearing a futuristic piece by Mugler, this fashion moment was unforgettable.
Best Runway Show: Coperni at Disneyland
Coperni’s show at Disneyland was one of the undeniable highlights of this year’s fashion months. Turning the theme park into a runway in front of Cinderella’s Castle, accompanied by a firework display, was a spectacle that’s hard to top.
