The penny-pinching end to the noughties inspired a wellspring of fashion creativity. As we begin the new decade, still cautious with our cash, these five fashion must-haves are a sound investment in style for the year ahead:
1. Boot lovers be warned, this year, it’s the bolder the better. Having long been the exclusive pleasure of celebrities, such as Kristen Stewart, Kate Moss and Delta Goodrem, this year we can expect to see above-the-knee boots more widely available for us all to enjoy.
And, while I may spend many a night dreaming about this pair from Jimmy Choo, to get a vamped up look at a more realistic price try Wittner, whose Axel boot is a touch more accessible.
Also hot this year are lace-up and peep-toe boots – or be more daring with a combination of both. When it comes to peep-toe, my personal weakness is Guess by Marciano. You can find Guess boots on Amazon, at least until Guess’s online shop becomes available. Finally, whether you indulge in lace-up, peep-toe or above-the-knee boots, stick with classic black and you’ll tread this trend with confidence.
(top image shows: Ellery at L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Week)
2. Structured skirts create signature silhouettes with plenty of pleated or boned volume. While generally of shorter length, thankfully they accommodate, rather than cling to, our curvier assets, making them a great choice for many.
With celebrities like Rihanna choosing to rock the red carpet in these shapely skirts, and designer Erin Fetherston as arguably their master on the runway, structured skirts can easily add a touch of drama for work or play. Topshop’s online store has a strong selection, or you can create this style locally with an Alice in the Eve skirt by General Pant’s Co., or with a tulip skirt from Witchery.
(image from Alex Perry’s David Jones show)
3. One-shoulder tops and dresses are for those seeking a sleek solution. From sassy sequins to flowing fabrics, you can create sexy or sophisticated looks from this versatile style.
Asymmetrical styles have been growing in popularity on the celebrity circuit, dominating the red carpets and being worn by everyone from Katie Holmes to Drew Barrymore, Lindsay Lohan and Taylor Swift to Anne Hathaway.
With top-end designers Calvin Klein and Balenciaga embracing the trend, you’ll be happy to know that gorgeous local options are available, such as the stunning Brigette black drape dress by Alex Perry, or the aptly named Tomato Puree dress from Country Road.
(image from Alex Perry’s David Jones show)
4. Knits are in. Forget frumpy, this year’s knits are all about shape and form – and don’t be afraid, the chunkier the better.
So you’re not overpowered by your chunky knit, try using it as an accent piece. My suggestion is layering a cropped knit, such as Topshop’s knitted fringe shrug, over a form fitting top. Perfect for the weekend with jeans, or take it to the office with classic black pants.
(image from L’oreal Melbourne Fashion Week)
5. Prints, be they graphic, geometric, or psychedelic, in dresses, skirts and shirts alike, are making a loud splash.
My personal pick is Desigual – while hard to find locally, this fiery Spanish brand is well worth hunting for online.
For more feminine prints, Leona Edmiston’s selection of full-length print dresses provide a fabulous local alternative; or, for just a hint of print, try Sportsgirl’s Spot Flip Skirt in black-and-white, as a fun fashion aside.
(image from Lisa Ho dress from L’oreal Melbourne Fashion Week)
