2015 was a year of extremes, but of course as we all know, trends come and go as fast as the blink of an eye. In 2015 we saw a lot of muted, monochromatic looks that were dressed down (which I personally are all about). Menswear and athleisure took center stage; we are talking distressed denim, sneakers (*cringe*) and oversized sweaters.
For this coming year, the seventies will still be a large influencer but with a softer take. The colors will be feminine and the textures light and airy, taking cue from Pantone’s color of the year, Rose Quartz. The style will be drawing away from men’s inspired clothing to more delicate accents. 2016 will stick to minimalistic designs, girly touches, vintage inspired elements and rich textures.
1. An Oversized Sweater
Chunky knits are not only practical, they are coveted. Every street style star is mixing sweater with leather, lace skirts and just about everything else to create a high-low mix we can’t get enough of. Style tip: buy a size up when shopping at fashion fashion stores to get a perfectly on trend fit. Love the minimal styling with this look.
2. Rose Quartz Colored Something
Now I’m not talking the pastels you wore when you were a kid. This year is focused around light hues that are sleek and sophisticated. Pantone recently announced that the colors of the year are Serenity (a delicate dust blue) and Rose Quartz (a feminine pale pink). Finally, there is a shift from the monochromatic black and white frocks to more feminine pieces. These colors are light, relaxed and look great contrasted against black or gray. Think a blush-colored jacket, like this.
3. Loafers
Some people are hesitant to try on this trend for size, but fear not my fashionistas, these are not your grandpa’s lounging shoes. You need a pair of preppy loafers to bridge that gap between work and off duty style. Embodying that je ne sais quoi that we all admire in Parisian women, this trend is simple yet elegant. They look great with a pair of skinny jeans and a chunky knit, or dressed up for your work grind with slim fit trousers and a blouse. Here is a great use of loafers in a casual look.
4. Really Ripped Denim
Yup, that’s right, rips are really it. Give an old pair of jeans new life with a box cutter and some sandpaper or spring for a pair that comes expertly distressed. The key with this trend is to balance it out with uber sophisticated pieces, like pointed tow pumps and silk blouses. This is a shining example.
5. Grey Jeans
Obviously denim is always in style, but this year will be all about the denim dress. It is a simple look that can be paired with a sweater and a pair of boots, or sandals and a sun hat. Similar to a Canadian tuxedo in terms of mixed washes, but this is a more feminine version. Love it mixed with nude, shown here.
6. Statement Vests
This minimal and menswear inspired piece (that was a closet need in 2015) is getting an exciting update. Think duster vests, chunky cocoon styles and stand out details. This inspiration is giving me life and is a perfect example of how to rock this the right way.
7. The Chiffon Trench
A trench coat is a forever basic that will always have a home in my personal wardrobe. But going into spring, it gets an airy update in a light, breezy chiffon fabric and in unexpected colors. Love this neutral look that shows a drool-worthy option.
8. Lady-Like Structured Bag
With a vintage feel, whether you thrift one or buy one new, structured bags are re-emerging on the fashion scene. Pair with a boyfriend blazer to add sophistication and feminine charm to an otherwise relaxed outfit. This one is on my lust-list.
9. White Skinny Jean
This is by no means a revolutionary wardrobe update – most fashion girls already have this piece – but it’s in the styling that this piece comes to life. Think winter whites, a blend of cream and beige and dressing up a otherwise casual piece. This is exactly what I’m talking about (claps!)
10. Lace Up Footwear
It’s really like lingerie for your feet. A strappy detail, a laser cut out and even an animal-inspired detail makes these super on point for this year. Even in flat form, they are just dreamy (see great casual styling inspiration here).
11. A Leather Pencil Skirt
Whether it’s faux or the real deal, it doesn’t matter. The fact is this work wear piece is getting a cocktail-hour twist with a bit of coating. It adds an unexpected edge which I completely adore. This look executes it perfectly.
12. Stand-Out Sunglasses
There is an abundance of bold sunglasses with different frames and mirrored lenses. This is by far the easiest trend to transform any outfit and if you are on a budget, there are a lot of inexpensive sunglasses that give the same effect as the designer ones. Plus, it goes well with any minimal look to step it up a notch. These are undeniably fabulous.
13. A Camel-Colored Jacket
In 2015, it was all about the camel-colored blazer, but in 2016 it takes form in a jacket. Draped off your shoulder (to channel your inner Parisian) or worn the status quo way – this piece is so sophisticated that it truly doesn’t matter. Consider this your Swiss army knife of your outerwear collection. This is an amazing look with a caramel colored coat.
14. A Leather Jacket
Once again, nothing mind-blowing here. This piece is to be expected on a must-have list. The only difference is that you will wear your trusty leather jacket with, well, everything. Add some sass to a traditional work dress or add boldness to a sweet lace dress. Here is a super chic example.
15. Twin Sets
Taking style cues from Taylor Swift, matching separates is an easy outfit choice on any given day. It’s no longer just a shirt and skirt combination, but includes a shirt and pant combo or even a jacket and shirt set. This is a fun way to play with patterns and colors and looks very high fashion – but can be worn individually to mix-n-match and get the best bang for your buck. Love this look.
16. Lace Linings
We’re bringing the bedroom-favorites lace to the street with this trend. The key is being cheeky with the lace piece (like this skirt look) and wearing something mundane and not revealing (like a chunky knit) to have a better sense of balance.
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