New York Fashion Week came and went in a flash, and London and Milan fashion weeks are in progress. Fashion Month will close out in Paris next week. The excitement during the shows is palpable, and their effects linger longer than you’d expect.

Several trends emerged on the runways in New York. I always wonder if fashion designers discuss their inspirations and influences with each other, because inevitably we see similar patterns in the presentations.

So what will we be seeing in stores next spring? (Or in H&M and Zara in a few weeks?) According to the collections that strutted down the catwalks in NYC, we can expect some very wearable trends and a few not-so-hot looks:

Bright Colors

Spring is when flowers bloom, and the runways were a garden explosion of colors this season. Bright yellows, bold oranges, and hot pinks came down from several designers. Carolina Herrera and Christian Siriano had some gorgeous bright and buttery yellow gowns. Brandon Maxwell and Tom Ford had a few electric pink looks, and Calvin Klein and Adam Selman took out their orange highlighters for their collections. Fashion does not have to be somber, as these happy hues prove.

Stripes

Stripes are a classic look, whether on a top, dress or pants, and they always seem to crop up. They’re even fresher for spring, with red/white, pink/white and navy/white combinations reflecting nautical and candy striper themes. And a total bonus is that vertical stripes are elongating and flattering for most figures.

Fanny Packs

I’m so unsure about this accessory because I grew up in the 80s when they were definitely not cool (I admit I had a red leather fanny pack back in the day!). Just as everything in fashion comes back at some point, the fanny pack is definitely back, as seen on Kendall Jenner and Rihanna. Designers showed them worn in funky ways, slung over the shoulder or

through a belt loop. They were even worn up high on the natural waist at Gucci.

Blazers

Blazers aren’t just for bankers anymore. They were all over the runways at Prabal Gurung, Tom Ford, Monse, Alexander Wang and Victoria Beckham. Whether suited up or worn over shorts, they added a polished touch to even the wildest looks. Every girl should have a blazer in her closet – they’re super versatile!

Bra Tops

I’m not gonna lie – I hate this stupid trend. It’s unrealistic and unattractive. Women shouldn’t be walking around in their underwear, right? No matter how it’s presented, it’s not a very appropriate look. I’m okay passing on this trend.

Even though these trends were prevalent on the runway, and will be all over stores in the coming months, remember not to follow trends exactly to the letter. Take a good look at what’s out there and decide if it suits you. If you like it and it reflects your own style, then incorporate an item or two into your wardrobe. If it’s not you, that’s totally okay. Sometimes trends are better in smaller doses anyway, like a neon handbag or striped accessories instead of a head-to-toe look. Don’t be a slave to fashion – make it your own.

~ Silva

For the last Style Session, read Style Session No. 2 – New York Fashion Week.

If you have questions or topics you’d like to see addressed in this blog, please email me at [email protected]. You can read more from me at www.onmyshoebox.com.