It’s hard to believe that a new year is nearly upon us. Allow me to present my predictions of what’s to be in style this coming year. And remember, trends aren’t meant to always be followed — they can be fun ways to embrace or try out new, interesting styles!
Many trends are built on others. This year, we’ve seen the rise of “balletcore” — dancer inspired outfits that look ready to head to the studio. Some hallmarks of this trend include legwarmers, light pink and of course, ballet flats. These outfits smell like Miss Dior.
As more of a niche style, it has diffused into a larger trend, bows. Bows are everywhere — in hair, on purses, on clothes. The ballet girls were doing this last year, but the time has come for bows to be brought to the mainstream. A good way to try out this trend is with hair bows, adding a cute touch to any outfit.
I look into my crystal ball and also foresee the continual popularity of maxi skirts. Demin maxi skirts made a big splash on Pinterest in 2023, and I don’t see that stopping anytime soon. I expect a continuation of the Y2K renaissance in the form of more funky patterns for these flowy pieces.
Speaking of the 2000s, designer Blumarine continues to inspire with their Spring/Summer 2024 collection. The brand always has wonderfully kitschy Y2K inspired shows, but this collection seems to be sent from heaven above — models strut the catwalk in feathered wings and diaphanous white dresses.
I don’t expect even the most forward fashionistas of 2024 to be strutting across campus in Victoria’s Secret angel runway wings, but I predict this angelic style will morph into its own trend. I expect it to continue to grow like the siren and mermaid inspired looks of this year.
Perhaps these divine outfits will include metallics, silks and draped fabrics. Blumarine even had a monarch butterfly encrusted set, perfect to wear to the new “Hunger Games” premiere to channel Effie Trinket.
As I gaze into the future, I also see something that may strike fear in some — peplum. Peplum seems to be back in designers’ collections for the coming year, likely due to how short trend cycles have become. Millennials may shake in fear with the 2010s coming in hot to give them fashion flashbacks a bit too soon.
Peplum tops can be ignored or adored. And if you have one and dislike the peplum part, just tuck it into the upper part of the shirt! To the ones afraid of the last decade making its return, this too shall pass. But I am afraid of the business casual, secretary style going out styles that haunted the early 2010s.
I do see frequent arguments about the proper style of jeans: mom, skinny, straight, flare, etc. This is an area that I strongly believe fashionistas should choose themselves. Although we should always wear what makes us feel best, jeans are such a staple that no one should let another’s opinion make them change a vital part of their wardrobe.
Whether the low-rise styles of the 2000s stay in or go out, don’t forget to wear what makes you the most comfortable, confident self you can be! However, I think that the flare jean trend may shift to allow bootcut jeans to sneak back in from their place in history as well.
For my last prediction, Baldwin Wallace University students are likely to stay comfortable and warm this winter, so jackets and boots are absolutely in. This doesn’t mean there isn’t a chance for accessories, throw on a scarf or colorful gloves! I’m even ready to see Snooki’s fur covered boots make an entrance.
Remember, what’s in style on the runway and for designers is just a place to be inspired. Microtrends on TikTok may be a fun way to try new styles but remember to think before you buy — although consensus says Shein isn’t she-out, the excessive purchasing and disposing of clothes for the sake of a quick trend hurts the environment and garment workers.
There’s always plenty of ways to give an old outfit a fresh flare by just styling it differently. Fashion is creative expression, so never let what’s trending make you doubt yourself. Until next year, fashionistas, enjoy the rest of the break and stay warm.
