ANGIE SHEEP
<Staff Writer>
With a shiny New Year comes shiny new clothes, and this year is no different. Runaways and fashion magazines everywhere have revealed the new looks of 2013 and distinguished the absolute must-have items amongst them. Don’t worry though, this does not mean you’ll have to eviscerate your current wardrobe. Some of the simple and classic items of 2012 have also persevered through the winter examinations (as did all of us). The New Year, nevertheless, brings with it a nuanced outrageousness as well as elegance, so if you’re lacking direction on what to add to the closet this year, these top trends may point you in the right direction.
Stripes
We saw the emergences of stripes in late 2012, but the ones today are a little different. While thick navy horizontals dominated last year, 2013 is seeing a variety in color, orientation, and width. The photo collage demonstrates the most “in” ways to incorporate the stripes trend this year. Designers like Jean Paul Gaultier (photo: bottom row, middle), have expanded the notion of stripe to include an Aztec element. However, be sure to make these horizontals your own and complementary to your unique body type. Trial and perfection Ozzies!
Studs and Spikes
This is a trend that stays quite consistent every year but nevertheless deserves a mention because it is one of my favorites. Studded or spiked heels are a great way to dress up any outfit, including the one you’ll be wearing to your fancy summer job. This year, the trend has permeated into the field of flats, so for all those who cannot bear elevation, these are a great substitute. The one in the picture is from London Rebel at divinetrash.co.uk and is on sale for just under $30!
Seeing Emerald Green
The statement color of 2013 for both day and night, emerald green conveys elegance, style, and a little mystery. The darker shade is a nice change from the bright colors that have dominated last year and provides a fitting juxtaposition for the dreary cold winter. For a classier, professional look, try an emerald green blazer, tie, or necklace. This is also a great color for your eyeshadow and makes all eyes pop.
Iridescent Finishes
2013 is about looking to the bright future and the clothes that accompany it are no different. An evolution of the metallic 2012, iridescent materials have been the focus of modern designers like Stella McCartney. This design, however, can be trickier to incorporate as too much will make one look like Tinman from Oz or worse, wrapping paper. So accessories are a great place to start: sunglasses rims, nail polish, handbags, earrings, etc.
Cuffs
Who doesn’t love cuffs? And no, not that kind; get your heads out of the gutter! I’m talking about luxurious, eye-catching cuffs that instantly “class”-ify any outfit. This great trend has also always been around, but I find people don’t take much advantage of it. So with the emphasis of cuffs in the New Year, hopefully you’ll come to discover the flexibility and wonder of this accessory. Cuffs of 2013 also differ from that of the past in their more decorative design details. Fashion gurus have relished in ones that are decorated with funky studs, jewels, and fabrics.
Florals
One simply cannot live through a spring and summer without the company of floral prints; this year is no different. The prints of 2013, however, are brighter and more outrageous than the pastels of seasons past. The designers this year also seem to prefer smaller, more delicate details (as opposed to large, overpowering prints), which is great news because they better complement all body types.
You!
The biggest focus of all is you and what you are going to bring into the streets this year. All these trends fall flat without you making them come alive by incorporating your own unique style. So pay attention to the focuses highlighted in this article when you’re shopping but never forget the essential element of a comfortable, glowing, and happy you.
There you have it Ozzies, the most coveted items and trends of this brand-spanking-new year. I hope I have given you some direction and ideas for your next shopping spree and perhaps saved you some time as well. Unfortunately, we don’t seem to have the luxury of spending an entire weekend browsing from store to store anymore.