Where Victorian ruffles meet ’80s fanny packs
By Katie Czenczek, Staff Writer
Spring is quickly approaching—I know, the snow on the ground last week says otherwise—and with the season changing, it’s time to show off those killer outfits you’ve been waiting to wear. No more looking like the Michelin Man, because the time for winter coats and mittens is quickly coming to an end. For some, dressing for spring is either their time to shine, or—myself included in this category—a confusing time where you wish the weather would just make up its mind so you can figure out if you’re wearing capris or long johns. That’s why I’ve taken a look back at Spring/Summer 2018 Fashion Weeks In New York, Paris, London, and Milan to get some inspiration for what is to come.
Here’s a master list for all things spring and trendy.
Pattern
A few patterns found in this year’s lineup include black-and-white polka dots, large floral prints, and checks. Polka dots were featured on Off-White’s stage in both large and itty-bitty sizes, giving off fresh Dalmatian vibes. Numerous fashion lines also featured large florals with stripes. Checked dresses, shirts, pants, and jackets were all over Balenciaga’s runway in patterns Sherlock Holmes would’ve been proud of. Bonus marks goes to anyone who combines all three into one garment the way Comme des Garçons and Off-White managed to.
Colour
Pretty pastels vs. bold shades—who’ll win? You decide. There’s no in-between this spring as far as colours go, for you can either go super vibrant to barely a whisper of colour. Lavender was the most popular pastel used by Victoria Beckham, J.W. Anderson, and many more for a delicate pop of colour. On the other end of the spectrum, bright reds and millennial pinks were all over the runways—especially in power suit form. Rebecca del Revenel and Oscar de le Renta combined the two vibrant shades for a dynamic look.
Cut
It’s time to take a look into your great-great-great grandmother’s closet, as high Victorian necklines have made a comeback. Puffy pirate sleeves Jerry Seinfeld would cry about along with high ultra-high waisted trousers are also just as popular as they were in fall and winter. Fanny packs too, unfortunately. A new and interesting trend, however, is the short suit done by Chanel and Off-White. These suits paired your everyday blazer with shorts in a classy—not trashy—way. They paired these looks with combat boots to make a grittier style and add a more masculine element, compared to the ultra-feminine forms featured on the runways.
Texture
One of my personal favourite trends this year is patent leather anything. Trench coats, boots, even a particularly nice black jumpsuit done by Balmain, all used the material, and this shiny fabric is everywhere. My favourite example of this look is worn by Elaine Wentworth off the runway. She regularly pairs white patent leather go-go boots with feminine, calf-length dresses to create an effortlessly cool look.
Opacity
Sheerness—in peek-a-boo garment form—is also very popular this year. Either in a clear, plastic form like the Kardashian boots that are now legendary, or ultra-feminine tulle dresses revealing one’s tighty-whiteys. Alexander McQueen and Paolo Sebastian took the tulle dress approach to the trend for an ethereal look. My only warning for those attempting this at home is to make sure your undergarments don’t have any holes in them.
Though trends come and go, hopefully you’ve found some inspiration if the winter season has bogged down your sense of style. You might be amazed by what a quick neckline or colour switch-up can do for your spirits.
