Last year brought us a lot of things, many of which were fashion-related. Think: awe-inspiring collabs, fashion house designer musical chairs, slits in the butts of jeans, and a whole slew of throwback moments. So what major fashion changes could 2017 possibly bring? Since we’re already a couple of weeks into the new year, we thought it was time to see what’s going to be replacing our chokers and mom jeans in the approaching months.
To help, we asked five of our favorite stylists to weigh in on what they predict is going to blow up. Happy shopping!
High-Low
“Fashion has always been about risk-taking but, for the first time, devotees won’t have to look too far outside their own closets to emulate one of 2017’s biggest trends. So much of what designers Stuart Vevers [of Coach] and Alessandro Michele [of Gucci] have championed in their latest collections transcends the runway by reminding consumers that fashion is much less about what you wear, and more about how you wear it. By mixing high-brow and low-end pieces—as easy as borrowing your dad’s old band T-shirt or anorak—you can create head-turning looks in the vein of Gucci and Coach.” —Heather Newberger, stylist
Pattern Play
“Gone are the days of being worried you’re mismatched because in 2017 pattern play will rule. No longer do you have to be afraid of mixing your favorite leopard print mini with a plaid bomber and ‘90s-inspired striped top. This year, we endorse it! Although brands from Mary Katrantzou to Prada to Proenza Schouler have been playing with this trend over the past few years, in 2017 the aesthetic is primed to blow up.” —Newberger
Metallics
“Bold outfits hit the runway this fall, proving metallics aren’t just from the ‘80s anymore. Designers such as Isabel Marant, Marc Jacobs, AREA, and Kenzo went all out this year to create full looks that shimmer and shine. Others kept their metallic use more minimal, giving us a great new idea for how to stand out at the office.” —Newberger
Genderless Fashion
“Since I started styling, I have been requesting menswear for women’s shoots, and vice versa. At first, PR companies were confused and would ask me if I was shooting for men or women. I always thought, Does it matter? If it fits the vibe, it fits the vibe. I think this has become much more accepted and mainstream now, with brands like Hood by Air and Vetements creating genderless clothing, which is awesome. Wear what you love! Never feel like you have to follow any rules when it comes to fashion.” —Carrie Weidner, stylist
Evolution Of Collabs
“The first time I experienced a designer collaboration was while I was living in Paris in 2005. I went to the Champs Elysée to check out the Stella McCartney x H&M collection, and there was nothing left on the racks—nothing. Collaboration has not only benefited big brands, but also small designers and, of course, the consumer, allowing everyone access to great design. I think this tradition will continue to evolve beyond the ‘traditional’ limits in 2017, as seen with fine arts collaborations such as COS x Agnes Martin’s collection last year. Artists, musicians, photographers, writers, even dancers and choreographers, as creative people we all work together, but not nearly enough. I think, in 2017, we will continue to see those boundaries open up to exciting results.” —Weidner
Overalls
“I’ve been wearing overalls constantly. They’re a more interesting silhouette than just wearing jeans and a T-shirt. I also like having all the pockets—you can put pretty much anything in the front pocket, and it doesn’t get in the way. I’m also seeing overalls on dudes a lot more often these days, which I love. Thanks, Chance the Rapper!” —Alison Lewis, stylist
Millennial Pink
“The general consensus about 2016 was that it was a bad year. Maybe that’s why I saw, and continue to see, so much pink. It’s a nice visual pick-me-up on gloomy days, and people have gotten a lot more comfortable wearing it. I’m excited to see how it alters moods in 2017.” —Lewis
Khaki
“Laura Dern’s scientist-on-safari vibe in Jurassic Park is popping up in a bunch of unexpected places. Denim is already everywhere, so it’s nice to see another style of utilitarian clothing gaining some traction.”—Lewis
Utilitarian
“Not just your standard cargo pants, think huge utility pockets popping up on vests, jackets, and tops for spring that will last well into the fall.” —Jarrod Lacks, stylist
The Power Suit
“I think it started toward the end of last year—with its political influence—but this year we will see the return of the power suit. From classic versions to more retro nods, one of my favorite moments came from Michael Kors Pre-Fall 2017. The empowered woman feels strong and yet very sexy in her suit.” —Lacks
Oversized Earrings
“Don’t call it a comeback! Let’s face it, we all know girls who love a good earring but, for spring, the OVERSIZE earring dominated runways in all shapes and colors—the more abstract, the better. This trend will last throughout the year, as designers continued to show them for pre-fall collections.” —Lacks
The ‘70s/’80s
“Designers usually reference a few decades per season, and the two that have been leading, and will continue throughout 2017, are the ‘70s and ‘80s. Silhouettes, fabrics, details, and even styling have been a major key for designers and stylist.” —Lacks
Mellow Yellow
“Most of us are under the misconception that yellow is an impossible color to wear. 2017 is the year that fashion proves us wrong. Surprisingly, there is a shade of yellow for everyone. Wear your yellow proudly, courtesy of this oversized shirtdress from Marques Almeida.” —Sam Bates, stylist
‘80s Blazer
“Blazers have been a staple on the Vetements runway for several seasons now, but I have yet to see the oversized blazer trend take significant hold in popular culture. With the aggressive return of the '80s to the catwalk for spring, I am dubbing 2017 the Year of the Shoulder Pad.” —Bates
Grandpa Robes
“Pajama dressing was my favorite trend of 2016. The effect of head-to-toe silk was as elegant as it was comfortable. Unfortunately, silk pajamas have had their moment. 2017's answer to roll-out-of-bed-chic is the robe. I kid you not, terry cloth robes hit the catwalks at brands like Marni, Alexander Wang, and Lacoste. It takes a real pro to take this way-off-duty look to the streets.” —Bates
