A Look Into Fashion’s Crystal Ball

By Dan Hutton on March 31, 2017 in

We’ll soon see what has inspired designers for 2017 as fashion weeks around the globe begin this month, shaping the way we dress in the seasons to come. Before the onslaught of autumn/winter fashion, here are a few trends happening right now, taking inspiration from three decades — the 70s, 80s and 90s…

Exaggerated shoulders – The exaggerated shoulder is a clear progression from the ubiquitous summer ‘off-the-shoulder’ blouses. From cotton tops cut in a pastoral fashion featuring broad shoulders, ultra-wide yokes and ballooning upper sleeves, to the square-shouldered suit jackets and puffball shoulders in a continuation of the 80s obsession, as well as oversized capped-sleeves and feminine, rounded shoulders, the trend is for volume at the shoulder.

Men’s shirts – Women’s fashion has turned to men’s shirting for inspiration, offering a nonchalant twist this season. Deconstructed pieces in pale blue or white with pinstripes are worn as oversized shirts or dresses and reveal plenty of décolletage.

Robes and wrap jackets – In a continuation of the loungewear trend, think masculine sensuality meets bedroom style as silk wrap jackets and robes are worn over dresses and jumpsuits.

Jumpsuits – These are now much more than a trend. Having become a staple of the fashion set they are worn in every form, from flowing silky pieces for evening glamour through to more utilitarian boilersuit versions for daytime cool.

Leather fringing – This year’s representation of fringing is a minimalist play of fabric and movement. For those who are bold, look for pieces that are Western-influenced or, alternatively, choose more discreet leather fringing.

Chainmail – This trend, which has been around in the accessories space for a while, has moved on from ‘mesh bras’ to full garments made of metal fabric in the form of bib and halter tops, skirt overlays and tunic vests.

The platform shoe – One of the top shoe trends for 2017 is the platform shoe, adding height and allure to anyone who wears it. This trend is a winner for anyone who is vertically challenged.

On the streets this month I found…

NAME Ali
OCCUPATION Bartender
STREET STYLE Ali wears a Top Shop tee, Levi’s denim shorts, shoes from H&M, belt from Sportsgirl and Ray-ban sunnies.
FAVE ITEM FOR THE SEASON A vintage denim skirt.

NAME Tanya
OCCUPATION Traveller
STREET STYLE Tanya wears a jumpsuit by Spell, K Jacques St Tropez sandals, a vintage bag and Ray-ban sunnies.
FAVE ITEM FOR THE SEASON A Zimmerman bikini.