Contradictory Trends Keep Fashion Fun

Following the latest fashion trends can get confusing especially when some of them seem to be contradictory. The good news is that even if you don’t like one of the trends, look at a different runway, and you’ll likely see something that you like that also fits into your personal style.

Minimalism vs Patterns

Clean simple lines were shown on some of the runways this season. Keep your look simple and monochromatic. Add white tennis shoes and clear bags to all but the most formal looks to keep your outfit uncomplicated and straightforward.On the other hand, elaborate patterned coats inspired by ethnic designs are a wonderful on-trend statement piece. Bold and unapologetic for their busy patterns, these coats work well as dusters or mid-calf length. To combine the looks, wear all black or navy blue underneath and top your outfit with a coat made from tapestry or other artful print.

Big Shoulders vs Slim Fit

You used to be able to place a woman’s suit jacket squarely in the 1980s by the size of the shoulder pads but no more. Shoulders are getting bigger and bolder to reflect the weight of responsibility that many women carry. Strong shoulders connote power. Big shoulders can come in many shapes such as rounded or pointed to keep the look fresh. On the other hand, layering shirts that fit closely to your skin are often found under the oversized jackets. This juxtaposition of tight and loose creates a design tension between fragility and strength. These second-skin shirts are not undershirts though. Their coloring and patterns are bold and beg to be shown to the world.

Loungewear vs. Open Backs

Almost every designer is producing some sort of elevated loungewear that’s not just for lounging. Although it’s perfectly acceptable to recline on your sofa in your sweats, this style of leisure wear is made for bigger things. Fitted sweatpants look less about eating chips on the couch and more about running or running errands. Dressing sporty just might lead you to walk a bit faster and take the stairs instead of the elevator.

On the other hand, you might want to do more than just wear athletic clothes since open backs are a coming trend. Get your back in top condition with a few simple back exercises so that you’re ready to rock this trend. Open backs create an understated elegance that leaves the room wishing you would turn back around and have one more drink.

Pastels vs Color Pops

Soft lavender, baby blue, cotton candy pink and lemonade yellow clothing are showing up across runways and in jumpsuits, jackets, and dresses. Think spring but all year round. There is no reason why your power suit can’t be mint green because the true power is in you not on you.

On the other hand, there are a few lone wolf colors that are popping up here and there to catch the eye and create some fun. Bubblegum pink (louder than its cotton candy cousin) is truly a ray of sunshine if sunshine were pink. A pop of bright blue on an otherwise muted look shows an adventurous spirit. Mustard yellow, once popular in the 1970s, is on-trend again proving that even colors deserve a second chance.

Long Necklaces vs Head Scarves

Chokers are out and long necklaces are in. The variety of pendants and designs for longer necklaces is unparalleled. Longer necklaces can be as eclectic or as traditional as you’re comfortable with. Lockets, abstract designs or gilded elements from nature are all perfectly in style. On the other hand, if you want to add drama but keep your neck uncovered, consider a brightly patterned head scarf. Incorporate the look into your hairstyle rather than using the scarf to hide your hair. These aren’t your grandmothers’ scarves, after all.Fashion should be fun, so don’t feel like you must wear every new look that comes down the runway. Choose the ones that fit into your lifestyle but don’t be afraid to add a little style contradiction into your wardrobe.