What to wear
The WGSN briefing offers us new guidelines for a new season.
Collections this season will be more focused, with fewer lines as brands look to stay safe in an unstable climate. This means they will be focusing on key trends like trench coats, prompting fears of a stale market.
But there is one big division that is becoming clear in trends. Youthful designs and those for older fashionistas are becoming defined and separated, in a stronger sense than ever before.
Coats will stay in classic tailored styles this season, while jackets are getting a new lease of creativity – velvet bombers and fur trims are to be expected. Dresses will focus on the floral midi, while skirts are down and trousers up. When you do wear a skirt, make sure it’s a panelled or pleated, asymmetric, midi-length number.
Fitness and activewear are up, and sloungewear is now a massive trend thanks to home workers who want clothing that crosses sleepwear and loungewear categories. Tailoring will be more visible on catwalks than the high street, with a strong professional slant. Expect double-breasted blazers and skirt suits worn as separates, reclaiming femininity in office wear.
Sustainability is also on trend and will be a hot topic throughout 2018.
Big trend ideas include The Thinker, inspired by libraries with a 70s spin. Think tailoring, knitwear, tank tops, Fair Isle patterns, and geeky chic.
Cosy Outdoors is all about camping, nature, and #vanlife. Be comfortable in chunky sweaters and blanket plaids. Add shots of colour for effect.
To wear Tough Squad, you’ll need urban styling. Choose cargo or utility pants, sportswear elements, and a shacket (a jacket that doubles as a shirt, or vice versa). Look youthful!
The Sartorial Remix includes tailoring with femininity, cutouts and plasticised finishes. Add bright shots of colour.
Urban Couture is all about going extravagant, but with an urban edge. Hoodies and layers are up. Pair them with a tulle top and utility trousers.
Scandi Cowboy is the name of the Western trend with clean lines in beige and darks. Use pared back or neutral colours only.
To create the Dark Wonder look, wear glitter and large sequins, over the top 80s styles, and bold plastic. This is for Gen Z, not the older fashionistas – be careful!
The Racing Belle wears sporty and orange looks, and is also a young woman.
As for Quirky Lady, she loves floral dresses and layers – but she’s tired of ruffles.
TOP TEN TRENDS
- Gen Z Yellow – yes, this yellow
- Warm neutrals – layer your beige
- Fashin chinos & cargo – high waist, wide leg, utility detailing
- Extended shoulder coat – long, tailored, and sharp
- Twisted dress – ruching, sheering, jersey, silky
- Shacket – neutral urban brights
- Detachables – think versatility: sleeves, scarves, ties, 2-piece dresses
- Wild textures – coloured faux fur, fun and playful, outdoorsy
- Cord – go bright
- Dark art – challenging graphics reference religion, animals, faces, with attitude on tops and jackets
