When I started properly getting into fashion in my mid-teens (my interest up to this point went as far as admiring and recreating TV characters' outfits) I felt a weighty pressure to hop on board with every single trend, season after season. I'd flick through the latest issue of Vogue, and if I didn't like one of the slickly styled looks that occupied a double-page spread, I'd figure I just didn't ‘get’ it. I'm not sure quite where this pressure came from, but as I got older and began spending my own money on clothes, it continued—and often led to me buying a low-quality piece that ticked the necessary boxes, then unceremoniously discarding it once the trend was considered ‘passé’. Today, of course, this seems immensely wasteful.
At the risk of stating the obvious, trends are totally subjective. Just because the fashion world approves, it doesn't mean you have to. It took me until my twenties to fully grasp this, and even now I occasionally have to ask myself if I like something because it's to my taste, or because I've seen it everywhere. I can admire an item on someone else whilst acknowledging that it's not for me. And it's also okay to dislike a trend and pray for it to retire back into the past (hello, low-waisted trousers!).
In the spirit of taking the pressure off, I decided to share which of this season's headline trends will be making their way into my wardrobe (and sticking around for years to come, even if they go back our of trend again) and which I'll be passing on for now. Mostly, it comes down to the silhouettes, fabrications and design details I can envision working with my existing clothes, and I encourage you to ask yourself the same when considering which looks to invest in. My style is always evolving, and I might eat my words in just a few months' time, but for now, these are the casual trends I'm fully backing.
Parking: '80s Drama
Embracing: '90s Minimalism
Style Notes: As much fun as frills, power shoulders and bold jewel tones are, a simple '90s-tinged outfit in a neutral colour palette feels much more 'me'; especially for the average day. If you relate, focus your attention on elevated basics like tailored blazers, figure-skimming dresses and leather accessories.
SHOP THE TREND:
This muted terracotta shade would look great with a tan. Unfortunately, my skin stays milk bottle white all year round.
Reformation's new collection is brimming with minimalist gems.
There's a matching skirt available, too.
The structure of this bag makes it feel a while lot more expensive than it is.
I want this entire set for my next beach holiday. Just imagine it with gold jewellery and strappy sandals.
Parking: Logo Belts
Embracing: Pretty Earrings
Style Notes: As a young freelancer, I'm always on a budget when shopping and investing in trends, so the new obsession with designer belts is one I'll have to sit out on. It's okay, I'm not a fan of logos anyway. Instead, I'll be adding that splash of gold to my outfits via pretty earrings. This look is much more my speed, and can be achieved super affordably, too.
SHOP THE TREND:
These look like something you'd see in a museum.
How fun are these!? Mood instantly boosted. Yes, they are an investment, but if you're after a special piece you'll cherish forever they're worth it.
Mango is my go-to for unique costume jewellery that comes in under £20.
A really contemporary pair.
Picture these with a simple all-black look. Beautiful.
Parking: Corsetry
Embracing: Balletcore
Style Notes: I'll admit it: I don't quite have the nerve to walk out in a corset. I always admire people who rock them on the regular, but I accepted the first time this trend surfaced that it just wasn't my style. Conversely, I'll be grasping onto the nostalgic ‘balletcore’ trend with both hands. It's almost inspired me to sign up for a barre class, but don't hold me to that. Pretty and simple, this trend is just what I need to get me ready for spring.
SHOP THE TREND:
Approved by celebs including Kendall Jenner.
I have a top just like this and I wear it weekly.
Such a sweet skirt for a sunny day.
Scoop neck tops are incredibly flattering. This particular style comes in five wearable shades.
High socks fit into this trend really well, especially when paired with ballet flats.
Parking: Metallics
Embracing: Double Denim
Style Notes: A friend of mine recently came out for drinks wearing silver metallic trousers, and she looked amazing. Yet I can't help but feel that if I wore the same trousers I'd resemble the Tin Man. Double denim, while still out-there compared to my usual uniform, feels like a more wearable fabric choice.
SHOP THE TREND:
Pretty blouses like this just scream spring.
I own these exact jeans and cannot hype them up enough.
An easy all-in-one outfit.
The frilly sleeves! The stitched pockets! This vest is adorable.
I've been seeing denim midi skirts everywhere lately, both online and IRL.
Parking: Slouchy Clutches
Embracing: Cross-Body Bags
Style Notes: The busier life gets, the less tolerant I am of minor sartorial irritations. Think shoes that pinch your toes, or tights that keep slipping down. With this in mind, it makes much more sense for me to go hands-free with a cross-body than have to constantly adjust a clutch under my arm. Even if it's as chic as Bottega Veneta intrecciato pouches.
SHOP THE TREND:
The most popular bag on the internet right now, and for good reason.
I'd carry this with me to picnics in the park.
A classic bag like this will never date.
Zara's current handbag selection is seriously impressive.
A fresh update on Arket's bestselling cross-body.
Next Up: Spring/Summer 2023 Fashion Trends: 21 Expert-Approved Looks You Need to See
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