As the global fashion weeks continue, we’re starting to see the shift in how fashion is approaching clothing and styling. Designers are looking towards functionality without compromising on fun. Palettes are bright and loud without forgoing their neutral foundations. And accessories continue to get bigger and chunkier, adding to the conversation rather than derailing from it. These runways are putting together the future styling book and so far, we’re picking up its modest iteration. While SS27 will officially hit the stores early next year, there’s no harm in incorporating the runway trends that are making their presence known.
Complementary Layering
From Calvin Klein in New York to Bottega Veneta in Milan, blouses and shirts are being paired together in a layered look. But the catch is having them in complementary colours, allowing for the base layer to pop across the collar, hemline, or even torso.
Define the Waist
Although some runways are sticking to the dropped waist silhouette, the emerging trend so far has to be defining the waist with cummerbands and layered belts à la Schiaparelli AW25. The latter was seen across Gucci and Ferragamo, while runways such as Proenza Schouler created the illusion with a colour-blocked moment.
Decorated Denim
Denim this season is getting a fancy edge. Across retail, denim has already been glammed up, appearing with crystal and pearl embellishments. This season, however, decorates denim with lace work and embroidery, making for an interesting accent, especially when paired with an open abaya.
Bomber Jackets
The SS27 runways are giving jackets all their flowers—from ultra-long trenches to short, cropped pieces—yet we think it’s the bomber jacket that will stand on top. Returning to the zeitgeist in a looser shape and wider sleeves, it’s ideal for the modest dresser who needs her sleeves to accommodate the layers she’s working with.
Fringe Fashion
When in doubt, turn to the fringe. The bohemian accent isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, so if your outfit feels like something is missing, consider adding a fringed accessory. At Fendi, that looks like a fringe Peekaboo, while at Bottega Veneta, that appears in scarves, jackets, and hobo totes.
Print Maxxing
If subtle is not in your dictionary, then you might want to pick up what Diane von Fürstenberg, Roberto Cavalli, and Tory Burch put down, which is print maxxing. Patchwork pieces, animal prints, decadent patterns—these designers showed us how to be wild with pattern mixing but also with finesse. All that needs to be kept in mind is navigating the balance between the two and an understanding on colour theory.
Pencil Skirts
On the corporate-wear front, the pencil skirt has been the defining silhouette when it comes to skirt options. And we’re not complaining because with its defined waist and long hemline, the piece creates a refined, soigné presence.
Feathered Boas
Feathers have been a go-to for a while now, but an unexpected change is the appearance of the feathered boa. Seen mainly on Tory Burch, the boa is given a thinner treatment, doing the work of a necklace across a jacket. This “skinny” look is what will pair well with a modest wardrobe, especially across a collared abaya.
