I think I fit somewhere IN about 50/50.
I keep my eye in, work with what works for me and admire (or not) the rest.
Age is a brilliant advantage, it gives me clarity; clarity to know what I like and what suits me. Years of uncertainty, when I was younger and trying to make what was deemed “fashionable” flattering when it clearly wasn’t lead to some very funny fashion victim moments. I’m thinking of excessive shoulder pads, bad jumpsuits and one too many frills for starters. I survived, grew up and now, thankfully understand trends are not obligatory but rather good for inspiration and reflection.
Many women may have figured this out long before me but when you love fashion as I always have there is an inbuilt longing to fit in. It is easy to forget the significance of body shape in all this, not to mention lifestyle when the catwalk seems so perfect, glamorous and desirable.
My keyword to pair with trends is adaption.
Adaption, in this case, means identifying a trend and analysing whether it is something that is workable or not. It is one thing to stay au courant but another to go over the top. Like lace-up boots, they are very on-trend but many are overly chunky and too embellished for my take on fashion. My boots are simple and give me the look without feeling overwhelmed or ridiculous. The same can be said of colours; just because it’s in doesn’t make it right.
I have a saying, “when in doubt, both feet out” to help me navigate trends.
If I have the slightest doubt a “new look” won’t work for me, despite the overwhelming presence in the fashion media, I don’t go there. I apply the brakes because history tells me it’s not for me. Overwhelming patterns are an example – they never suit – as is the bomber jacket. I adore them on others but they simply don’t like me. The same with very wide palazzo pants – I wish I were 5″ taller but so far no joy.
Stick to what you know and keep it up to date.
Accessories can play a major part in looking “on trend”. It is so easy to update a pair of sunglasses, a handbag or a pair of shoes.
Small changes to our appearance can have the same effect. A new haircut, a change of colour or a switch to no colour – even a new lipstick can make all the difference. Swap jewellery and layer it up a bit; this always makes me feel more together.
Change the length and style of jeans or trousers – I don’t think we would consider wearing hipsters now but remember it wasn’t that long ago we were wearing our jeans around our hips. The same can be said for skinny jeans – they have almost disappeared in favour of a slightly wider, boot cut leg. It wasn’t so long ago I was peeling those off.
Making small efforts can have big results.
What is the answer?
Follow the trends with an open mind and an observant eye and know yourself, what you like and how to wear it.
Don’t be afraid to change your style, to re-invent and be creative; simply make sure it feels like you.
Trust you, (trust me) and we will get there, looking as we wish, together. xv
You Can’t Go Wrong With These Trends
update all the way
shoshanna little black dress || vince lace-up boots with everything || ray-ban wayfarer sunglasses in green or violet
stiletto the lips in satin matte || tights in fishnet with the dress and the boots || seize the day in this jacket
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