This fashion week has had me questioning what really makes something a trend. I believe it’s not so much about the newness or an innovation in something old, but more changing the way we perceive something that is already out there. This season at New York Fashion Week, designers had me reconsidering the classic blazer and inspiring me to dig through my closet and find my old school uniform. It motivated me to really take a look at what is in my wardrobe and think about how I can make it feel new and novel again.
This season, designers stayed true to their own identities. There were no surprises on that front: Tory Burch made chunky knits that simultaneously reminded you of silly string and the ultimate cozy sweater while Area continued the crusade to rhinestone fringe domination and referenced Madame Grès with their version of pleats and draping. Hearty tartan prints were seen everywhere from skirts to trench coats (which we also saw everywhere). Runways were either explosions of color (we're looking at you Christopher John Rogers) or sleek black in the form of leather jackets and well constructed trousers. The trends that we noticed are the ones that stuck with us 40+ shows later, they're the ones that we are already brainstorming how to wear in 8 months.
Scroll through for the six biggest trends that we saw at New York Fashion Week.
Chocolate Brownie
Khaki made big waves last season and now it's time to reconsider a new neutral: deep true brown. I believe in Crayola crayon colors it referred to as "Fuzzy Wuzzy". When I saw the color go down the runway I immediately thought of (and craved) double chocolate chip brownies. Take cues from Eckhaus Latta and let bright colors peek out or keep it simple with an easy brown dress.
Shrugs Not Hugs
There were a lot of shrugs and repurposing of scarves as well as a lot of varying iterations of capes. From the minimal ones at Proenza Schouler to the full-on cape capes at Michael Kors, apparently these are the winter accessories to buy next season. Wear it in lieu of a top à la Priscavera or let it be your whole outfit like at Gabriela Hearst.
Big Big Shapes
Find your shape takes on a new meaning this season. Silhouettes are leveling up and getting a lot bigger. Sure, they might be the most wearable but they sure do make a big statement. At Area the statement is I love you whereas at Carolina Herrera the sentiment is I love me and so here I am as a ruffle.
Boarding School xoxo Gossip Girl
Good morning Upper East Siders! Is the uniform look back again? Box pleated skirts, plaid, and tweed were frequently used fabrics this season. From the after school equestrian at Self Portrait to the garage band safety pin wearer at Monse, we're getting a front row show to a new wave of preppy. It's no longer about headbands and now all about great tailoring (regardless of what clique you are).
Sliced Blazers
We thought we had seen it all when it came to blazers (oversized, big shoulders, printed, etc.) but this season we're seeing cropped blazers. Eckhaus Latta matched their with an equally sliced mini skirt while Christopher John Rogers created an on-stage performance worthy suit. A cropped blazer adds a sense of unexpected drama to a look.
Hips Don't Lie
We've seen cut-out clothing go just about everywhere. This season the focus is on your hips! These cut-outs will move when you walk, skip, run. It might be a good opportunity to embrace a visible g-string or invest in some barely there undies. The styling decision is up to you!
