Many people have heard the story that when Greg suggested I start a blog about fashion and style, I replied, “Okay! What’s a blog?”. It was the early days of blogging, and YLF was one of the first of its kind. We brainstormed the name, and Greg designed and built the site.

Eighteen months in YLF, it was Greg’s brilliant idea to add a forum, which immediately jumped into life with the wonderful community that was forming around the blog. It was his idea to create Finds, which is an indispensable wardrobe maintenance and shopping tool. YLF was Greg’s affectionate and loyal labour of love. Without him, YLF would not exist. Words cannot adequately express my gratitude for his incredible hard work, creativity, perfectionism, high standards, and dedication. YLF holds a special place in my heart because the most special person in my life created it for me.

The launch of the forum was an inflection point for YLF. I think it’s a unique spot on the internet. Thoughtful, kind, clever, constructive, and supportive. In a world where online spaces can feel loud, public and fleeting, this community has remained generous, respectful, and deeply engaged. Many of you have been here for years, even decades. You’ve shared your wardrobes, milestones, challenges, and triumphs. You’ve supported one another with insight and warmth. That is rare, and I do not take it for granted.

The forum drew wonderful Belgian beauty Inge to YLF eighteen years ago. Inge politely contacted me privately asking if she could join the forum even though she wasn’t American and lived in Antwerp. I replied, OF COURSE. And mentioned that I wasn’t American either. Inge is Dutch-speaking, and so am I. We clicked immediately. So much so, that we met in Belgium the next time I was in Europe. It was the start of a long-lasting friendship. We asked Inge to work for YLF, which she did wonderfully for thirteen years. We’ve met many times in the Netherlands, Belgium, England, and Seattle. We don’t see each other in person often, but when we do, we spend quality time together, which counts for a lot. We’ve met each other’s families and friends, and chat daily. My close friendship with Inge is one of my favourite things to have come out of YLF, and I treasure it.

There are many, many more things I love about YLF, and its diverse, global following is one of them. I can travel to just about anywhere and meet up with a Fabber. There have been gatherings across the globe, and there will be many more. I’ve made many FABULOUS friends through YLF and my work as a personal stylist. These friends enrich my life daily in countless ways, and some I’ve known for twenty years. I’m thankful for their amazing presence in my life.

Our Yorkie team, Jasmine, Rosie, Sam, and Jo, were and are a huge part of YLF. Always close by as I worked, walked, and thought through posts. They brought a sense of routine, comfort, and perspective to the process. They’ve been loyal companions on daily city walks and photoshoots, constant sources of joy, and gentle reminders to pause and appreciate the moment. Many of you have come to know them through the site, and their presence has added a personal animal-loving layer to YLF that goes beyond style. In their special doggie way, they’ve helped shape the rhythm and heart of these past twenty years.

At this big milestone I’m excited to announce that I’m publishing my first book.

In my daily dialogue with in-person clients and members of the YLF community, certain truths kept resurfacing. Great style is about understanding yourself, knowing that small details make a big difference, and recognizing that simplicity, comfort, and authenticity always win. I started collecting the practical tips, mindset shifts, and emotional insights that have helped thousands of people find their own version of fab. Short, digestible insights that you can use immediately, reflect upon, and remember for later. These are things that I believe will transcend fashion cycles, and have the power to shape how we express ourselves every day through personal style. I called them Style Nuggets.

Style Nuggets: Practical Inspiration for Everyday Style is being printed and will be ready to purchase in hardcover and paperback soon. Stay tuned for details.

As we celebrate twenty years, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Thank you for reading. Thank you for engaging. Thank you for trusting me with your style journeys. You are what makes YLF an extraordinary social community. Thank you for your insightful, compassionate, intelligent, thoughtful and amusing contributions, from which I learn, reflect, and grow as a person. Whether you’ve been here since the early days or joined more recently, you are part of what makes YLF what it is. My goal remains the same: to help you cut through the noise and find what works for YOU.

Here’s to continuing the conversations, refining our styles, and finding joy and purpose in getting dressed every day. Happy 20th Anniversary, YLF!

Onto some outfit inspiration. Soft yellow is quite versatile. It’s fabulous combined with earthy browns, greys, blues and whites.

1. Jeans

An easy way to wear pastel yellow is as a top or jacket and to pair it with blue jeans. The blue jeans can be any wash. The collection shows some examples.

Here, a pair of mid-wash blue jeans is combined with grey, whiskey and butter yellow argyle. It’s topped with a buttery blazer that picks up the colour in the argyle. A cream belt adds interest, and matches the cream in the argyle pattern. Earthy brown animal print flats are the trendy shoes of choice. They complement the whiskey bag that picks up the same colour in the argyle. The model is holding a light blue shirt in her hand, which you wouldn’t do in person, although it showcases how well light blue works with the palette. Punchy!

2. Dresses and Skirts

Here’s a collection of soft and pretty pale yellow dresses and skirts. Accent colours are shades of white, tan, grey, and a hint of black.

3. Light Neutrals

Tans, taupes, biscuity browns, and creams look yummy with buttery yellow. Here, a pair of wide and pleated taupe pants with cream side stripe is combined with a butter yellow sweater. A tan coat tops the pairing. Biscuit loafers are the earthy choice of shoe, and the cream tote matches the cream side stripe of the pants. A second butter yellow sweater is draped over the shoulders of the model like a scarf. Soothing and pretty!

4. Chocolate Pants

A lemon yellow blouse is combined with a pair of rich chocolate wide leg trousers. Brown snake skin pumps add a dressy touch, and complement the whiskey belt. A chocolate bag matches the trousers. A cream border scarf with bits of brown, lemon and blush works with the palette. Rich!

5. Light Blue and Pale Pink

Last, a big light blue shirt is worn over a pair of pale pink barrel pants. A bomber jacket with bubble hem and sleeves in a brighter yellow is layered over the top. The mid-tone yellow jacket is neither lemon nor citron but somewhere in-between. Earthy chestnut pumps with matching bags are effective rich accents with the soft palette. A chunky silver necklace adds a glam and shiny touch. Unexpected and my favourite!

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Pieces that are versatile, hard-working, and thoughtfully designed are resonating more than ever too. We build capsule wardrobes around items that can be styled multiple ways, worn across seasons, and adapted to different occasions so that we get the biggest bang for our fashion buck. This idea is evolving into something more ambitious called Function Forward Fashion, or FFF. The concept is fringe, futuristic, and gaining momentum.

FFF is about garments that do more than dress you. They actively replace the need for multiple items altogether. There are trench coats with integrated tote systems that unfold from the lining. They are large enough for a couple of groceries including, in the example below, a sizeable and determined melon.

There are super cute midi skirts that convert into picnic blankets complete with discreet corner weights for windy conditions. And when folded correctly, triple duty as a surprisingly supportive lumbar cushion. Stylish swoosh is put to work in a charming and pragmatic way.

Trousers are evolving too. There are silhouettes with expandable side panels that function as built-in carryalls. When not in use, they lie flat and streamlined. When deployed, they can hold anything from a laptop, to a light topper and baguette. I like how the items that you’re carrying add interest, texture and shine to your look. They effectively maximize the outfit without the need to add colours or patterns. Tonally perfect in a more minimal way.

For Team Footwear, there are boots with adjustable shafts that expand to accommodate bulkier items. One pair I saw in stores had enough internal space to hold a scarf, pair of gloves, and a somewhat bruised apple. The volume on the lower leg adds an architectural integrity, and creates grounding proportions. The effect can visually balance a broad shoulder line too.

My favourite on-trend FFF items so far are blazers. Many incorporate structured compartments designed to distribute weight evenly across the body. That keeps your body comfortable and healthy as you go about your day. I saw a citron FFF blazer recently and fell in love. It held my phone, cards, sunglasses, tissues, keys, lip balm, doggie poop bags, a short tea, and a small container of olives. Once everything was in place, the silhouette remained surprisingly tailored. A little bulkier than I prefer, but I’m giving the trend a go. The blazer followed me home and I’m excited to wear it when the weather warms up. It eliminates the need for a handbag which is a BIG change for me. Not sure I’m ready to give up my bags completely, but never say never when it comes to fashion and style.

What surprised me most about this trend is how futuristic and intentional the garments look and feel. Instead of adding accessories, your outfit becomes a fully integrated system. You carry less, but have more.

Over to you. What do you think of Function Forward Fashion? Will you sport the trend?

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I reached out to Spanx customer service. They didn’t respond so I filled out an online Spanx survey. An automatic reply indicated that someone would follow up with me, but no-one did. I received the survey a second time and dutifully filled it out again. This time, I mentioned I had written a blog post about the quality issue. Whether it was mentioning the blog post or just an accumulation of all my messages, I received an email from a person in customer service the next day.

Spanx customer service asked for photos of the pilled items, which I provided. I made it very clear that I did not want replacements of the exact Air Essentials items because I no longer trusted the fabric. Spanx was very apologetic, saying they would let their product development team know about the quality issues.

They couldn’t refund my orders because about 5 months had elapsed between purchase and my complaints. Instead, they could give me a store credit in the form of a gift voucher. I would have preferred a refund, but I’m satisfied with the credit. It shows goodwill from Spanx. I’ll spend my Spanx credit on woven Spanx items. I am done with their knits for a while.

I took the other two Spanx items back to Nordstrom, who, as I expected, refunded the items right away. No questions asked. They were very apologetic about the quality issue, and would take it up with Spanx. This is the type of customer service I expect from Nordstrom and I appreciate it enormously.

Reach out to Spanx customer service if your Air Essentials sweats have pilled. Or take them back to Nordstrom if you bought them there. Hopefully it will be a good outcome for you too.

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On to some outfit inspiration:

1. Columned

Create a column of colour with any neutral or non-neutral. Add interesting footwear, and pop a short trench coat over the top. For example, here a column of white is created with barrel jeans and a white top. A taupe trench coat tops the column. Pony print buckled flats with a bag to match are statement additions.

2. Dresses

These outfits are from Marks & Spencer, which perfectly styled a warm stone cropped trench coat over a couple of dresses. The maxi dress on the left is smart casual and worn with dressier flats. The dressier frock on the right is worn with dressy high-heeled sandals. Both are topped with the same short trench coat, showcasing the versatility of the silhouette.

3. Skirt

A long chocolate pencil skirt is combined with layered tees, and a red cabled scarf. Black flats are the mild weather shoes of choice. A short belted tan trench tops the outfit. Its black buttons match the black skirt. The trench coat is buttoned up, and the belt is fastened, although you can wear the trench open too. The belt hangs and dangles a bit, yet it’s not as annoying as you might expect.

4. Jeans

I’ve seen this burgundy MANGO short hooded trench coat in person on a friend and client, and it blew me away. It’s absolutely sublime and gorgeous quality if you enjoy wearing roomy, architectural designs. The colour is rich and versatile too. Runs big, and will layer over anything. It’s superbly cut, tapers in, and is not overwhelming if the sleeves aren’t too long. Here it tops a jeans, tee, shirt and boots combination, and is the star of the show. Its black buttons match the shoes and model’s hair.

5. Other Options

Here are some more examples of how short trench coats work over outfits that incorporate a variety of bottoms like short shorts, long Bermuda shorts, wide pants, mini skirts, leggings, and flared skirts. Add a bag, jewellery, watch, and eyewear as desired.

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Personally, I’m finding the price points of some of my go-to brands in the US very high. They shot up fast over the space of a year, and it’s very discouraging. My plan is to buy fewer pricey-to-me items, more on sale, and to keep more affordable brands like MANGO on my radar.

On that note, today’s top picks shoutout goes to MANGO jackets and coats. I’m impressed with the variety, fits, colours, fabrics, and quality. They generally run true to size, although sometimes a little narrower than US brands, which is typical of European fits. The oversized fits aren’t too big either. The toppers are fairly neutral, although I expect non-neutrals to feature strongly further into Spring and Summer. There is silver hardware for Team Silver too.

I found two MANGO jackets this year, and I’m delighted with them. They are fabulous transitional items that I can wear whenever the weather is just so. I’m impressed with how well they are made, how pristine they look, and how good they feel, given the price point. The fabrics are fantastic, and so is the attention to trim detailing. The extra details in these items effectively elevate them. The Dundee Croc Embossed Faux Leather Jacket is in high rotation because it layers well under my cocoon coats in Winter. I love the cheeky short length and self-covered buttons. You can see me model it for the forum here (pics #42 to #45). The Cuba Oversized Short Cotton Trench Coat is waiting for the weather to improve, so I’ve worn it once so far. The dramatic sleeve width is adjustable, and so is the hem width. The collar is crisp, the pockets are deep, and the blonde tortoiseshell buttons are effective elevating extras.

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The idea is to wear the short trench with just about any outfit, thereby allowing outfit proportions to fall where they may. The short length of the trending trench is a slam dunk pairing with wide and voluminous pants, jeans, dresses and skirts. Looks fab with shorts too. The unbelted versions are particularly appealing if belted toppers feel fussy, cumbersome, and uncomfortable. Notably, when double-breasted versions are worn open, they drape architecturally over the outfit. Boxy single-breasted versions worn open can drape architecturally too.

Personally, I enjoy wearing trench coats, and usually have a couple in my outerwear capsule. I keep their colours light and bright, and their silhouettes, long, belted, classic, fluid, and preferably hooded. My trench coats are effective raincoats to wear in the Seattle drizzle. That said, I threw caution to the wind this year and bought a short, tan, oversized trench coat without a hood because my ’80s gene is alive and strong. I was shopping with a super stylish friend at MANGO and spotted the Cuba Oversized Short Cotton Trench Coat. Tried it on, and fell in love. My friend gave it a smiley thumbs up, and that was that. It’s big, yet its short length and neat high collar give it just enough structure so that my narrow shoulders don’t drown in the silhouette. The tan and blonde tortoiseshell buttons are an easy match with my hair. It looks good worn over my tailored, fluid and oversized tops and wide bottoms. I’m excited to wear it regularly as soon as the weather warms up. I suspect it will become a wardrobe essential and workhorse.

Over to you. What are your thoughts on the short trench trend?

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1. Big Sweater and Dressy Boots

A dressy black lace pencil skirt is combined with an oversized mustard and lemon pullover. It’s worn over the skirt in all its boxy glory with scrunched sleeves to temper the volume. The black skirt flawlessly matches the model’s black hair. The tension between the casual top and dressy bottom is very current. The juxtaposition relaxes the glam, and amps up “everyday”. Dressy chocolate brown boots are the mismatched shoes of choice. Add a bag that matches the outfit, and a very roomy coat to top the lot.

2. Leggings

This version is for warmer weather. A narrow stone columned wrap skirt is paired with a shorter sculptural and waist-defining black top. A pair of lace leggings is worn under the wrap skirt, which matches the black top. Wear solid black leggings if lace is not your thing. The lace adds a textural and romantic dimension, though. Black heeled sandals add a summery and dressy touch. Add any colour bag to complete the look.

3. Pattern Mixed

A multi-coloured floral patterned pencil skirt is combined with a roomy earthy cinnamon, black and white teddy bear sweater. The colours in the sweater are repeated in the floral, thereby harmonizing the clash. Again, the glam of the skirt is relaxed with the casual integrity of the the pullover. A texture-rich faux fur bag adds playful integrity. The severe black slingback pumps add a dressy and professional touch to the whimsical combination. So does the oversized ‘70s eyewear. The earthy parts of the outfit match the model’s hair in a compelling way.

4. Sleek

Last, fringe in fringe trending so this cream fringed pencil skirt is bang on the money. It’s combined with a short tailored toffee top that’s semi-tucked into the skirt. The visual effect is sleek from head to toe. Tall black dressy boots add a tailored touch. A black belt matched the boots. A black moto that matches the model’s hair and the black in the outfit, is an easy way to top off the look. Add jewellery, watch and eyewear as desired.

Personally, I prefer skirts and dresses that move and swoosh as I stride. I love BIG skirts! That said, I’ve worn pencil, tube and column skirts in brights, navy, black lace, patterns and whites in the past, and enjoyed them. I’m glad slim skirts are back for those who like wearing them, and who knows – I might wear one again at some point.

Who bats for Team Slim Skirt?

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The most important concept to understand about modern fashion and style, is that it’s an era of multiple style narratives. This was effectively portrayed through Ralph Lauren’s recent runway shows, which showcased an extreme variation of silhouettes, fits, rises lengths, hem lengths, combinations and proportions. Bottom widths were slim, fluid, wide and very wide. Lengths were cropped, long and puddle length. Rises were low, mid and high. Fits were body con, tailored, fluid and oversized. Skirt and dress lengths were mini, knee-length, midi, and maxi. Skirts were flared and pencil. All sorts of proportions were created. In short, there is everything, everywhere, all at once. You choose your style narrative and run with it.

Most trends look familiar and little is brand new other than fabric technology and hybrids. Fashion today is about taking the best from every decade, remixing it and modernizing it. The emphasis is less on new silhouettes and more on combining and juxtaposing items, vibes, proportions, and colours to create a refreshed look.

Feel free to feast, snack, or fast from the buffet of trends, and most importantly – do your own thing. Wear what makes you happy, and feel good in your outfit.

1. Opposites Live Side by Side

You’ll find just about anything at this point given that fashion is bringing back the best of every decade. There are slim and wide silhouettes. Short and long lengths. Body con and oversized fits. Bombshell and boxy cuts. Quiet and loud luxury. Neutrals and non-neutrals. Solids and patterns. Dressy and casual. Glam and athletic. Gender neutral items, and a whole lot of remixed proportions that create a refreshed look. Maximalism is as on trend as Minimalism. Sporty Luxe thrives alongside Taiored Classics. Boho Chic smiles at Fresh Preppy. Rock ’n Roll nods at Athleisure. The one does not cancel the other out.

You have the power to choose your fit, length, and outfit proportions. Size up if you don’t like things too tight. Size down of you don’t like them too big. Wear items with the same fit in one outfit, or mix it up for variation.

All lengths of bottoms are on-trend. There are cropped lengths that expose the ankle bone, or graze the ankle bone. Two inches above the ankle is a sweet spot for cropped lengths. There are full lengths that skim the vamp of the shoe without a break line. The point is to showcase footwear at that length. Some full lengths are longer thereby covering more of the shoe and creating a break line. There are fashion forward floor-sweeping “puddle lengths”. Tapered silhouettes at extra long lengths scrunch at the ankle creating a textured effect.

Knee-lengths are the “newest” length for skirts and dresses, which means a length that hovers around the knee. A little above, a little below, or on the knee cap is knee length. Of course, there are plenty of minis, midis, and maxis too.

2. ‘80s and ‘00s Inspired

The unapologetically expressive ‘80s influence current fashion in a big way. Think bubble hems on items, slim tapered pants, ra ra skirts, sharp shoulders, pleated high-waisted carrot pants, oversized fits, ruffles, stirrup pants, dolman sleeves, dropped shoulders, blouses with bows and neckties, balloon pants, defined waists, wide belts, double belts, hitch-up skirts, acid wash, neon, clashing brights, all sorts of pastels, pedal pushers (knickerbockers), statement tracksuits, pencil skirts, hi-tops, peplums, boiler suits, mullets, boxy cropped tops, yoke and basque skirts, fingerless lace gloves, and scrunchies. These looks are modernized, architectural, and remixed to look chic and grown-up without losing their delightful retro charm.

You’ll see fashion from the ‘00s come through too. There are low rises and low slung pants and jeans, but the silhouettes are relaxed, wide and very wide (not skinny and low rise). There are also low slung skirts and belts. Think band tees, graphic tees, moto jackets, slim bottoms tucked into tall boots, tailored button down shirts, clamdiggers, side swept fringes, bootcuts, long layered tank tops, lace trims on skirts and tops, long lace camisoles, tees with defined waists, long slim tops, handkerchief hems, and big handbags. There are also lots of black and white combinations.

3. Fresh Preppy

Think quintessential Ralph Lauren looks and you’re on the right track. Polo shirts, rugby stripes, nautical stripes, crisp shirting, colourful silk scarves, shirtdresses, vertical striped shirting and blazers, striped neckties, candy-coloured sweatshirts, madras checks, gingham, Summer plaids, gingham, cotton cabled knitwear, cotton chinos and shorts, popped collars, tailored blazers, quarter-zip knitted tops, collegiate sweaters with colour-blocked V-necks in pullover and cardigan silhouettes, tennis and cricket sweaters in tailored and oversized silhouettes, striped grosgrain belts, satchels, chambray, baseball caps, and argyle.

4. Poetcore

Poetcore borrows from the wardrobes of poets, artists, and thinkers across the ages, remixing the lot with a whole lot of modern. Frilly pirate shirts, billowing puff sleeve tops, ribbon-tied necklines, and romantic ruffles are combined with tailored trousers, skirts, blazers and waistcoats. Think Victorian inspired footwear like lace-up boots, brogue oxfords, and Mary Janes. Vintage jewellety is the accessory of choice. The palette is muted, mostly neutral, and texture-rich.

5. Short Trench Coats

Short trench coats in neutral colours are a contemporary update on the long and belted classic silhouette. Great in mild and transitional weather. Cropped at the waist or high hip, these shorter versions retain traditional trench details like double-breasted fronts, storm flaps, and epaulettes yet feel lighter, sportier, and more modern. There are single breasted versions too. Most are un-belted, which strengthens the appeal. Double breasted versions can be worn open. Fits are generally fluid, boxy and oversized, although tailored versions exist. The versatile shorter length works particularly well with wider bottoms, skirts and dresses.

6. Polka Dots

Polka dots are a familiar pattern with a sense of whimsical and retro charm, although in 2026 they seem more elevated and sophisticated. Less cutesy and more serious. More “grown-up” for lack of a better way of describing it. For the most part, polka dot patterns are neutral and two-toned. Many of them are very small in scale. Black and white polka dots reign supreme. There are also navy and white, earth tones and white, and other colour combinations.

7. Western

Classic western looks continue to influence fashion with its rugged and rustic spirit. Inspired by classic cowboy style, the look incorporates elements like cowboy boots, fringe, suede, leather belts, oversized belt buckles, shirts with yokes, prairie-inspired dresses, barn jackets, bootcut jeans, denim vests, denim trucker jackets, denim shirts, stetsons, tiered maxi skirts, horse patterns, pony prints, cow prints, plaid shirts, bandanas, weathered brown leather accessories, and lots of embroidered details. The idea is to remix western elements into any outfit, thereby creating unexpected combinations and maximizing the power of juxtaposition.

8. Bows and Knots

Bows and knots can bring texture, movement, and charm to contemporary outfits. Think statement details on tops, dresses, skirts, shoes and handbags, ranging from ties at the neckline to oversized decorative bows on the waist, at the back, or on the shoulder. Knotted and ruched elements also appear on garments, where fabric is twisted or gathered to create soft structure and visual interest. While the look has a whimsical feel, it’s often balanced with clean silhouettes and modern fabrics so it doesn’t feel too sweet.

9. High V-Necklines

Unlike the traditionall V-neck, this version begins higher on the chest and creates a more subtle, and tailored plunge. You’ll find the high V-neckline on tops and dresses. The shape draws the eye vertically, which can visually lengthen the torso and neck. The result is fresh and polished, without revealing too much skin. If V-necks are your thing, you might like the current update. If high necklines are your thing, the higher V-neck might be a way to enjoy a lower neckline.

10. Funnel Necklines

The funnel neckline adds an architectural element and subtle drama to silhouettes. Sitting higher than a crew neck but looser and shorter than a traditional turtleneck, the funnel neck gently stands away from the neck to create a clean, sculptural shape. You’ll see it on jackets, coats, knitwear, knitted tops, dresses, and sleeveless pieces. Funnel necklines frame the face, and offer neck coverage, They work particularly well on longer necks and shorter hair. That said, funnel necks that are too high can be folded down and look super cute too.

11. Blues and Teals

EVERY shade of blue in any wardrobe item is having a fashion moment. Think watery blue, light blue, powder blue, sky blue, aqua, denim blue, cobalt, royal blue, sapphire, slate blue, periwinkle, cerulean blue, air force blue, turquoise, peacock blue, blue teals, indigo, navy, and ink blue. Blues can be very versatile, and some are fashion neutrals. Blues skew cool-toned and are quite the change from warm earth tones that have dominated fashion for several seasons.

12. Modern Romance

This trend blends gothic drama with feminine elegance, creating a moody and romantic aesthetic. The beauty of dark romance lies in balancing hard edge with soft and pretty. The palette combines deep tones like black, eggplant, ink blue, plum, chocolate, and burgundy with dusty pinks, light blues, shades of white, and metallics for contrast.

Think head-to-toe textured black, or other very dark solid colours, or patterns with black backgrounds. Think black lace, lots of lace trim, sheer fabrics, tulle, sequins, patent leather, textured leather, velvet, moody dark florals, textured knits, tweedy wovens, corsets, rosettes, satin, chiffon, silk, jacquards, brocades, chokers, gloves, cameo pendants, dark nail polish, dark eyewear, smoky eye makeup, and dark lipstick. Interpret the looks minimally or maximally, and across the seasons. There’s a hint of Steam Punk too.

13. Draping

Draping brings romantic and elegant fluidity to soft fabrics. The idea is that you’re floating in flowing fabric rather than drowning in it. Instead of rigid structure, fabric is gathered, twisted, pleated or folded so it falls naturally around the body, and moves as you stride. Draped elements appear on dresses, tops, skirts, trousers, and knitwear, often across the waist, shoulder, hips, or neckline where the fabric can cascade into soft folds.

14. Novelty Patterns and Slogans

Novelty patterns and clothing with slogans are packed with personality, a sense of humour, and can create interesting conversations. You’ll find just about anything in the form of a pattern or slogan on a wardrobe item these days when you search for it. If you find a top or tee with a pattern or graphic that is meaningful or nostalgic in some way, wear it with a happy heart and feel right on trend. Make a subtle or bold statement with quirky pieces. Wear these looks casually, or remix them with dressier pieces.

15. Solid Saturated Brights

Clear brights denote joy, delight and optimism. Chartreuse, Kelly and lime greens, shocking pinks and fuchsia, all sorts electric and bright blues, tomato reds, watertmelon, fiery reds, citrusy oranges, regal violets and orchids, and energizing yellows. Wear the same bright colour head-to-toe. Wear several brights at once to create a harmonizing colour clash because no shade pairing is off-limits. Or wear brights in small doses through footwear, accessories, make-up, and nail polish.

16. Round Silhouettes

Round silhouettes borrowed from the ‘80s have an architectural integrity are in full swing. Think rounded shoulders, balloon sleeves, barrel, horseshoe, and lantern pants, shorts, and jeans, bubble hem jackets, and top-heavy oval silhouettes. Fits and shapes are exaggerated and playful.

17. Interesting Visible Layering

Layer tanks and vests over long sleeved tops. Layer tees under dresses. Layer tees over button down shirts and blouses. Layer multiple tees. Layer two skirts. Play with different lengths. Wrap scarves over pants and skirts. Wear white tees under sweaters. Drape capes over anything. Wear jackets and vests under coats. Sport more than one belt, and belt multiple tops. Drape knitwear over jackets, like wraps. Wrap knitwear around the waist.

18. Butter Yellow, Celery, Pale Pink, Light Blue

We see pastels every season, and some more than others. Think pastels in any wardrobe item across clothing, footwear and accessories. Pastel suiting and pastel rugby stripes are ‘80s influenced. There’s an emphasis on wearing buttery yellow with light blue. Pale greens like celery and pistachio make a fresh debut. Pale pinks are pretty and one of the more versatile pastels. Pale pinks are great with whites, blues, blue denim, and earthy browns, olives, maroons and burgundies.

19. Utility, Athleisure and Sporty Luxe

Athleisure is full throttle casual and sporty from head-to-toe. There are no dressy components in an Athleisure outfit. Sporty Luxe remixes sporty touches with dressier pieces, making juxtaposition key. Sporty Luxe looks are dressy, apart from the sporty accents that relax the look.

Think fashion sweatshirts, hoodies, sneakers, joggers, track pants, track tops, sporty tuxedo striping, bombers, baseball caps, fleece jackets, leggings, anoraks, large weave mesh tops, rugby tops, colour-blocking, tank tops, body bags, quarter-zip tops, cargos, and bowling bags. Matching sweats sets are big too.

The utility trend draws inspiration from functional workwear and military uniforms. Think cargo pockets, zippers, snaps, self-belts, epaulettes, and adjustable tabs that add both structure and visual interest. Fabrics are typically durable like cotton twill, canvas, denim, and technical blends. Colour palettes lean earthy with shades like olive, tan, toffee, navy, black, and charcoal. Utility pieces range from cargo pants, carpenter pants, and field jackets, to boiler suits, belted shirt dresses, and vests with lots of pockets. Wear a utility look from head-to-toe, and remix utility pieces with dressy pieces.

20. Jazz Age

There’s a subtle ‘20s fashion influence for those who like the era. It blends vintage glamour with modern wearability. A fringe trend with fringe detailing on items like tops, dresses, pants, and skirts will make an appearance. Dropped waists on tops and dresses are there too. Think beading, feathers, sequined accents, T-strap shoes, soft wide leg trousers, bias cut clothing, and Art Deco jewellery.

21. Scarf Styling

The patterned silky scarf makes a comeback. Think of any way to incorporate a smaller or larger scarf into your outfit. Wear it as a necktie, headscarf, around a ponytail, or as a belt. Drape a large triangular scarf around your hips and over a skirt, dress, or pair of pants. Create a cravat look with a button down shirt.

22. Relaxed Glamour and Elevated Everyday

It’s very current to relax a glam look, and to elevate an everyday casual look. This brings us back to the important theme of juxtaposition. You might relax dressy pieces by combining them with denim, motos, aviators, slouchy bags, crossbody bags, or casual footwear. Wear a tee under a blazer. A sweatshirt or rugby top with a fancy skirt and heels. Throw a tuxedo jacket over utility pants or leggings. Wear a moto with sweats. Wear elegant jewellery and a dressy bag with athleisure. Wear dressy clothes with flats. Add sparkle to jeans. Wear a cashmere wrap or ruana with joggers. Add a silk scarf and pretty sandals to parachute pants and a shirt. Add chunky glam necklaces to slouchy sweaters, sweatshirts, and knitted tops. Wear a short puffer with a fancy skirt. Add a crossbody bag to dressy attire. Add a fancy bag to jeans. Sport a tote with cocktail attire. Style your hair, wear statement eyewear, throw on a belt, and add jewellery to a simple shorts and tee outfit. There are countless ways to relax some looks and elevate others. Choose the ways that best work for you and your style.

23. Do Your Own Thing (DYOT)

There is no one way to be stylish. Fashion is a melting pot of sartorial choices, and increasing diversity in fashion with each passing year means that there is something for everyone. Trends are no longer seasonal and fads no longer exist. Trends are becoming harder to define, and at some point they will be irrelevant. That’s why creating a signature style and evolving it over time is one of the most important and relevant trends of them all. Wear the trends, don’t wear them, remix them, repeat them, or reinvent them. Do your own thing.

I like all the trends, and some more than others. Specifically for my own style, I’m partial to most ‘80s influences, a big dose of Fresh Preppy, bottoms with volume, solid saturated brights, Sporty Luxe, round silhouettes, polka dots, most things horse-inspired, bows, short trench coats, lots of blues, pale pink, relaxed glamour and elevated everyday, funnel necks, some layering, and DYOT. I tend towards Maximalism. I wear body con, tailored, fluid, and oversized fits. The oversized portion of my wardrobe is growing. What seemed oversized years ago, simply looks fluid today.

Over to you.

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The Pikolinos Arenas are extra easy because they’re slip-on despite the laces and look refined on the foot. Nice with skirts and dresses, and the metallic is a hard to find pewter.

The chunkier New Balance 327 comes in lots of colours, although the bisque, linen and metallic are the favourites. They look snazzy from the back, so click the link to see that view. Very supportive, cushioning, and like walking on clouds. They also have suede trim, which is a little harder to clean.

The Vionic Gracia Woven Flat is right on trend. Comes in several neutrals, and is supportive too. Footbed comes out so orthotics can be inserted. Very pretty on the foot, and might run half a size big. Can work on a wider foot, but don’t size down.

The Pikolinos Alameda Slingbacks are earthy, comfy, dainty, and work particularly well for a bohemian style.

The Frankie Wallace Mules are super stable mules that do not shift around. Their woven uppers are on trend, and quite roomy. The pewter option is another rare find. Signature to the brand, gel inserts are provided to adjust the fit to suit the shape of your feet.

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