I have a love/hate relationship with trends. Mostly I hate them, but once in a while something comes along that fits my personal style, so I make an exception and go along.

My problem with trends is twofold. One, if you follow, you end up blending in with everyone else. In a desire to keep up with the fashion in-crowd, you become just like them. Maybe that’s your goal, and that’s okay. I personally feel that fashion should enhance who YOU are, not who “FASHION” wants you to be.

The second problem with trends is that they change so rapidly that they can turn your closet into a fashion graveyard while emptying your bank account. You save up and buy that new “it” thing, only to have a different “it” thing come along soon after. It’s almost not worth it.

It’s better to take some time to determine what your individual style is, what types of clothing best represent your personality, and keep that aesthetic in mind when shopping. That way you won’t fall prey to whatever is featured in stores and on influencers on social media. I love looking through Instagram for fashion inspiration, but I don’t let what other people are wearing dictate what I’m going to wear.

I came across a report this week from retailer Long Tall Sally about this year’s most popular trends around the world. I find it fascinating what women are wearing in other countries, and how their styles compare and contrast to ours. Moving here from Boston 16 years ago, I saw a huge difference in East Coast v. West Coast style. Long Tall Sally’s report says that the most popular trend in 2017 on the East Coast was colorful faux fur, while on the West Coast logo tees were the craze.

Some other global trends:

• Stockholm, Sweden – statement outerwear (think parkas and puffer coats)
• Sao Paulo, Brazil – camo print
• Milan, Italy – belted coats
• Lagos, Nigeria – off the shoulder
• Dubai, UAE – embellished clutches
• Dakar, Senegal – voluminous skirts
• London, UK – metallic boots
• Barcelona, Spain – ripped denim
• Copenhagen, Denmark – check blazers
• Paris, France – white tees

Every city has its own fashion flavor, and trends don’t always carry globally. So remember to do your own thing and wear whatever you want – trendy or not – no matter where you are. But always keep it classy.

Speaking of trends, what would you say is trending at Fresno Christian?

~ Silva

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.