What an A-List Stylist Thinks Should Come Out of Your Closet in 2018

From some of Rihanna’s and Kim Kardashian West’s most iconic outfits to cementing London’s best dressed It-girl scene, super stylist and creative director Avigail Collins is known in fashion circles for being the go-to when you’re a celebrity looking to craft an exciting new look. She’s the mastermind behind ingenious ensembles for Lorde and is the force behind some of Daisy Lowe’s sassiest getups, but Avigail’s wardrobing skills extend even further: See her own streetwear-inspired line, Silver Spoon Attire, for starters. Founded in 2013, alongside her husband (and fellow sought-after stylist) Damian Collins, her high-profile music clients—and a global street style following—make up a pretty impressive fan club. If anyone can spot the next big thing, it’s Avigail, which is why we’re thrilled to have her on board at Who What Wear UK to bring you a monthly column about what’s hot now.

This month I’m looking ahead to 2018 and answering many of the questions that everyone else is asking online all the time. There are certain Google searches that crop up time and again about particular items and whether or not they still stand up in fashion: So I’m giving you my verdict, as well as providing some information and guidance as to how to wear these tricky, controversial or potentially dated pieces in order to make them feel fresh in the New Year. Of course, if you love something, you love something, so who cares?

Keep reading to see the pieces that are (and aren’t) fashionable right now and how to wear them next.

are chinos still in fashion?not in a major way

Personally, I prefer these on men, and I’m never as keen on them for women. For a guy, they seem to be a long-standing staple, especially in the warmer months, and if you’re a preppy girl, they do work—but otherwise, I’d suggest opting for more of a cargo pant for 2018—they’ve been making a comeback on the runway and feel far fresher. Wear with heels to feel as smart as you might do in chinos.

Shop the chino alternative:

are kimonos still in fashion?they're a new staple

For me, these are a summer staple nowadays. I love wearing them to the beach instead of a wrap or sarong. If you’re wanting to wear one for an evening out or in the day with jeans, then I suggest trying to pick up an authentic vintage style, as high-street versions can occasionally risk looking “cheap.”

Shop a vintage kimono:

are adidas flux trainers still in fashion?sorry to break it to you…

There are too many other cool sneakers to choose from that it can make this particular style feel quite uninspiring these days. I’m sure they’re handy backup trainers to have around, but if you want to make a style statement, I’m wearing a Nike Cortez in baby blue.

Shop my sneaker alternative:

are cardigans still in fashion?yes, yes and yes

I love a cardigan. I am enjoying the current trend of wearing short cardigans with the bottom buttons fastened and then the top pushed off the shoulder… this takes your cosy cardigan into a chic dinner date look.

I also think everyone should have a mohair fluffy cardigan in their wardrobe—it’s a travel essential for me. Not only are they handy on the plane, but they’re great cover-ups in the evening when wandering the streets of Europe or eating outside.

Shop my cardigan pick:

are ugg boots still in fashion?I actually prefer another ugg product

The debate over Ugg boots and their fashionability always rumbles on, but my obsession isn’t for their outdoor footwear—the way I like my Uggs is in slipper format. You have to get a pair.

Shop my Ugg pick:

are leggings still in fashion?for working out, sure

I know leggings are super popular and they are now available in a thousand different options, but I have to admit, I’ve never been a fan. They’re great for the gym—so let’s keep them there for the time being? Anyway, stats show that millennials are now ditching leggings for denim again.

Shop workout leggings:

are tights still in fashion?not all tights are born equal

Sheer tights are my favourite option, and the lower the denier the better. If you’re still wearing printed or coloured tights, then be careful, as they can easily be unflattering and draw attention away from a potentially great look. I guess it’s wise to remember the sage advice of less is more when experimenting on the hosiery front.

Shop my tights pick:

are turn-ups still in fashion?in one very particular way

I was actually just thinking about this the other day. I would say it’s a no in denim for this season, as it’s still all about the frayed edge. However, I do think a turned-up smart trouser is still a great look, as it can lengthen your legs when you show a little ankle.

Shop my turn-ups pick:

are brogues still in fashion?some are, some aren't

If chunky like Church’s brogues, then I believe they can still look stylish, but I would say that narrow brogues are really done. The former do look best on girls who are comfortable wearing them—i.e., they’re a normal part of your uniform or look and rock them forever and ever, whether they’re deemed en vogue or not.

Shop my brogues pick:

are parkas still in fashion?if classic in style, keep on wearing them

I see the ones with coloured fur around the hood everywhere, and, I have to be honest, I personally think they’ve had their moment. I am into the classic vintage-style military ones. These are a classic, and they are perfect for festival season. I love them with a floral dress and wellies.

Shop my parka pick:

Next up, the New Year’s outfit ideas you shouldn’t miss.

Opening Images: The Style Stalker