7 Refined Trends for All the Stylish Grown Women Out There

I have a few goals in mind when I put together an outfit, and looking polished is one of my main sartorial objectives. So when I shop, I tend to gravitate toward those inherently sophisticated separates to keep my wardrobe as elevated as possible. While I have a slew of go-to items in my arsenal to incorporate into my "refined, grown-up-feeling" looks (like sleek turtlenecks and tailored trousers), there's actually a range of 2020 trends that have polished-feeling qualities that I'm interested in testing out.

And believe it or not, some of the most stylish and sophisticated fashion people are actually already on board with these must-try trends because I've been spotting many in question all over my Instagram feed over the last few weeks. On that note, keep scrolling to check out the next-wave refined trends I'm loving—as seen on some of the chicest women. And because I strongly believe said looks will bring a polished spin to any of your outfits, I also shopped out each trend for all of you elegant ladies out there.

A tailored silhouette will bring a sophisticated feel to any vibe, and the almighty vest is one of those old-school yet seemingly fresh pieces to achieve that look. Whether worn as part of a three-piece suit or worn on its own with a blouse, the waistcoat is one piece I’m looking forward to spotting more and more in 2020.

Pointed pumps and sleek ankle boots can act as the finishing touch to an especially refined look, but non-basic loafers—those with chunky block heels and with glossy details like patent—will no doubt rise up to be the It shoe silhouette amongst the fashion crowd. While I love the idea of wearing the footwear style with cropped trousers and a jacket, I’m also into these loafers because they can bring that unexpected polish to a cool denim-and-sweater vibe as well.

While the upgraded trench coat isn’t necessarily a new trend, it’s one that’s entering the spotlight in an even more noteworthy way next year. Designers from Sacai to Oscar de la Renta showcased a range of reimagined cuts with asymmetrical designs, unexpected pattern-blocking, and more. Fashion girls (and myself) are champions of this look for it’s classic yet modern sensibilities.

It’s no secret that tossing on a blazer will add polish to an outfit. While the slouchy styles of the 2010s will hold their own, there’s one micro-trend I’m particularly feeling as an alternative—the collarless blazer. Cropping up among the cool set, this updated silhouette feels modern and a bit more relaxed than a traditional blazer paired with a tee and trousers or over a turtleneck with a midi skirt.

This bold trend is clearly incredibly popular now, but as designers from Khaite to Tory Burch proved on the S/S 20 runways, the look will be bigger (literally) than ever next year as a statement-making way to enhance a silhouette. Fashion girls seem to lean into the trend in the form of colorful cardigans or in playful midi dresses.

Yes, a standard white button-down is timeless in theory, but Bevza, Pyer Moss, and more made a strong case for the reworked white shirt in their S/S20 collections. Here I’m talking about cuts with extra-long sleeves, cropped hems, and so on. Like I just mentioned, the white shirt will always bring sophistication, but the amped-up versions will bring that forward polish that just feels so right.

Fashion people embraced leather separates this season, and the look—one typically reserved for fall and winter—will have a moment come spring 2020 as well. While the classic black moto jacket will be a forever-staple in my eyes, I’m gravitating toward those leather trenches and wrap jackets in rich hues.

Next, check out four cheap and chic outfits to test out this winter.