Streetwear has evolved over the past few years. Originally associated with the youthful, rebellious and urbane, it has slowly found its way in the high street department stores and on the runways of fashion giants such as Balenciaga and Givenchy.
Streetwear doesn’t need to be sporty or look unkempt; instead, it can be an opportunity for you to showcase a looser, more confident style that is likely to make you look both younger and more sophisticated.
Streetwear is fresh, unapologetic, and highly practical — it deserves its own portion of your closet. If you’re not sure what pieces, to begin with, here are a few trends you may want to consider:
1. Eclectic Patterns
Eclectic patterns in fashion are nothing new. Pioneered by brands such as Guo Pei, they have made their way to mainstream fashion through the creativity and versatility they offer.
Think of the classic Versace print with its busy, almost psychedelic prints; they conveyed boldness, confidence, and vitality. Scarves and shirts mimicking these brightly-colored neo-tribal patterns can be cool to mix and match as you please.
2. Long And Short Hybrids
Remember the huge boyfriend shirts that were all the rage in 2013? And the long-sleeved dresses designers would abruptly cut short? The long-short long is back in style with mini dresses that will reveal the best of your legs, but keep you warm with their long sleeves and high collars.
If you’re unsure of how to wear this look, consider matching the huge sweater you would normally wear with leggings with nothing but a pair of tights and ankle-high boots. It may feel super daring at first, but there’s no fashion without (minimal) risk!
3. Leathering It Up
Leather is everywhere these days. The runways have been spoiling us with rich leather looks that combine attention to quality and creativity.
Leather is being styled up to match our color-rich trends; tanned hues leaning towards mahogany and mocha have been seen everywhere, from Miu Miu to Gucci. Incorporating leather in your closet shouldn’t be too challenging. Typically, a purse, an iro leather jacket, or some classic boots will do.
4. Retro Color
There’s something deeply aesthetically pleasing about the juxtaposition of smooth, pigmented pastels such as melon and baby blue or even pink and rich fabrics such as wool and silk. In the 60’s and 70’s, bright colors were encouraged, and fashion was about daring, happy, bright self-expression.
The designs and cuts were kept simple, with the coloring of the classic turtleneck sweaters or flaring cotton pants giving that splash of uniqueness fashionistas often seek. This autumn, you’ll want to have a few bright pieces in your closet, like a pastel coat or retro, brightly colored skirt.
5. Knee-High Boots
Knee-high boots have been an autumn staple for the past few years, and this trend is unlikely to go out of fashion for several years to come. Not only are good winter and autumn boots an excellent investment, but they are also highly versatile in that they can be worn with practically any outfit to capture a street-wise edge.
Whether you wish to tuck your jeans in your boots for a more urban, sexy look or couple them with a flowy skirt, you’ll want to invest in at least one pair of knee-highs this autumn.
6. Earthy Tones
Earthy tones have been quite the rage for a few seasons now. Everyone from Kim Kardashian to Katie Holmes has been spotted in the muted tones, with brown and beige being a favorite because of how well they match autumn themes and classic colors.
An earthy-toned sweater will fare well with any pair of jeans, and a brown tank top can be coupled with any open loose shirt to combine trends.
7. Animal Prints
To grasp this trend, you’ll want to change everything you know about animal prints. Think about inverted colors, such as tiger or cheetah prints of bright green or white snakeskin.
Animal print autumn trends give us the exciting patterns of vibrant animal skins with coloring reminiscent of summer and spring seasons. If you’re looking for a “wow” factor, you’ll want to invest in a fluorescent or pastel animal-print coat.
Disclosure: This article was written by a guest author.