Fashion

You might be in your PJs reading this, but staying at home really shouldn’t stop you from looking good (even if it’s only for a Zoom chat) or prepping for when you can finally go out in proper clothes and makeup! Take a cue from these spring/summer fashion trends as you revamp your wardrobe for the new season!

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Image: chuu

1. Color – Neon

What’s more summery than vibrant and outrageous neon colors? If you’ve watched Selena Gomez’s Spring Breakers (2012), that’s the vibe I’m talking about. Spring break may have passed us by, but we can still recreate the vibe with a dab of neon here and there.

2. Color – White

There’s just something timeless about white-on-white outfits that make it a constant go-to during summer.

3. Print – Wallpaper

They call it grandma’s 60s wallpapers – loud, busy and psychedelic prints are on trend now. Don a “wallpaper print” maxi to keep things retro and stylish at the same time.

4. Fabric – Eyelet Lace

Crochet and lace are the easiest ways to add texture and an ethereal mood to an all-white outfit. Add a crocheted vest or eyelet lace skirt to an all-white ensemble to look angelic.

5. Fabric – Leather

Leather isn’t just limited to winter. It can also take on brighter pastel hues for a spring-appropriate twist. To rock multiple trends, layer a bright leather trench over a sheer shirt and crochet bra top!

6. Item – Bra Top

Here’s the quintessence of this season’s clothing – bra tops! Though some may tell you not to wear bra tops if you don’t have cleavage to show off, I’m telling you that’s not true! Bra tops are the perfect substitute for wired bras for flat-chested ladies, since they’re ultra-comfy and give you just the right fit to look agile and youthful. Make this your base layer for everything from shirts to vests.

7. Item – Waistcoat

Who says waistcoats are only for guys? Add structure to a simple tank top by wearing a fitted waistcoat or longline vest. It easily changes up your casualwear into a work look.

8. Item – Bermuda Shorts

Hot pants are still popular, but try opting for Bermuda shorts. You’ll realize how handy they are when you have to be in and out of air-conditioned areas, and how flattering they are when teamed with a waistcoat and heeled loafers.

9. Item – Low-Rise Pants

Move over, high-waist pants! This summer is all about low-slung bottoms. Add structure to the slouchy silhouette by wearing a bra top, waistcoat or statement belt.

10. Item – Trench

It’s hard to avoid trench coats in spring. Give the androgynous piece a girly spin by going for soft green, plaid, color-blocking or pleats.

The Hallyu wave is real. Everyone and their moms have watched popular K-dramas like CLOY, K-pop finds a considerably large portion of fans right here in the country, and plenty of foodies have incorporated samgyeopsal and ramyeon into their regular diets. 

But it’s trickier with fashion. The streets of Seoul are like a Fashion Week runway—almost everyone you cross paths with is most likely decked in Insta-friendly, cop-worthy outfits. But there’s also weather and price tags to consider.

The good news is, while their sense of style relies specifically on the occasion and location, there are certain trends we can duplicate right here in the PH. All we need to do is look to our favorite Korean stars for inspo.

Layering strappy tops over shirts

It might seem like a weird concept to layer garments in the Philippines, what with our eternally humid weather conditions, but the K-style way of doing it might just work in our favor. Fashion-forward Korean stars, from K-pop idols like Seulgi of Red Velvet to K-drama actresses like Bae Suzy, strategically layer thin garments under strappy pieces to avoid looking bulky. Put on a strappy dress or a strappy top over a shirt or a button-down made from thin fabrics and you’ve got a layering situation that’s as PH weather-friendly as it could get.

Wide-legged pants

If there is one trend that’s popular in Korean fashion, it would probably be that they are into baggy and roomy garments, which applies to bottoms as well. Pants with a high waist and a baggy leg room are a standard piece of clothing in majority of Korean stars. Members of girl groups like Wonder Girls and 2NE1 are particularly fond of it—it’s a welcome change from the often flashy and fancy stage outfits they wear when performing. They would style it often with cropped tops to complement the cinched waistline and balance out the loose fit of the pants.

Long shorts

You can say that majority of Korean fashion trends tend to be conservative, but they won’t shy away from trying out a cool clothing item when they see one. Shorts aren’t exactly the most conservative piece, but Korean stars have their workaround to make it less daunting—by wearing them at longer lengths. Former girl group members turned solo artists like Somi and Sunmi carry the piece with casual confidence that it makes you want to sport the trend, too.

Unbuttoned tops

The fact that the streets of Seoul are never without a stylish passerby dressed in an interesting outfit is a testament to how innovative Korean fashion trends are. They especially seem to have a knack for reinventing the way they wear normal everyday pieces. Case in point: Tops that are not buttoned all the way through. It all started when Blackpink’s Jennie Kim, a Chanel muse and style maven in her own right, began wearing her button-down tops unbuttoned at the bottom, and everyone else followed suit. This styling trick is definitely doable and welcome in the Philippine heat.

Off-the-shoulder jackets

As previously mentioned, K-fashion has its way of wearing basic items in a different, more refreshing approach. Jackets are normally reserved for air-conditioned rooms and –Ber months when you’re here in the Philippines, but this Korean fashion trend might just work in our favor. Transforming jackets in thin fabrics into an off-the-shoulder piece gives the clothing item a more reasonable cost-per-wear value. How do you restyle those barely worn jackets to make them PH-friendly? Leave one or two of the top buttons undone so you can push the lapels upward and make an off-shoulder neckline.

Multiple piercings

Layering on necklaces is another popular Korean fashion trend which many stars tend to embrace for an added flair. While it would pass as a wearable trend here in the country, it isn’t always the most heat-friendly accessory trick. A few hours after sporting multiple chains and your perspiring skin might start to feel uncomfortable. Another K-fashion way of sporting accessories that’s warm weather appropriate is donning multiple earrings. It’s undoubtedly popular among K-pop idols—event male idols wear a lot of earrings. Get as creative as you can with curating your piercings and take inspo from these stylish Korean celebs.

Candy Bulletin is finally here! If you’re an aspiring writer, vlogger, artist, or kahit marami ka lang talagang time, submit your entries here and make your mark in the Candy community! Share your feels, show your skills. Don’t worry—we won’t judge. 😉

We may all be sitting on our couches right now, but we’re all hoping around summertime that we’ll be able to get out of the house and wear some cute summer fashion trends.

Morse code As seen in Parasite, and Orlando Bloom’s tattoo. Dots and dashes at the ready.

Hair doshas Ayurvedic haircare brand Chämpo has an online quiz to determine yours. Returned bottle caps are reused, too.

White boots See Raf Simons announcing his creative partnership with Miuccia Prada. Puddles be damned.

Carbs Bread, pasta and rice sales are up for the first time in three years – plus bread baskets featured at Molly Goddard’s LFW show. Tuck in.

Wildlife documentaries but not as we know them. Tiger King, a Netflix true-crime series from the creator of the Fyre Festival doc, is out on 20 March.

Going down

Sunday scaries Pre-Monday dread has been replaced by “Saturday spirals”: pressure to make the weekend count, according to ManRepeller.

Soggy sandwiches Millican launches its Core Collection on Monday: weatherproof backpacks, made from plastic bottles. Pair with hiking boots and a map.

Daisy prints Swap for daffodils. Hotter’s Daffodil Brooke shoe sees £20 from every purchase donated to Marie Curie.

Time wasters The average person fritters away 21.8 hours every week, according to the NYT. We’ve never felt lazier.

Fried chicken footwear The KFC/Crocs collab is not for everyone.

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With wedding season almost upon us, newly-engaged couples are preparing for the year of matrimony ahead.

But, as more and more people step away from conventional nuptials and the various traditions that come with them, new twists and modern takes on the celebrations are emerging.

It now seems as though the wedding industry is not too dissimilar to the fashion industry, in that both rely on a constant trend cycle.

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To find out which wedding trends are topping the list this year, global fashion search platform Lyst analysed the online shopping behaviour of more than 100 million shoppers a month searching, browsing and buying fashion across 12,000 designers and stores online. 

The “Wedding Report” also factored in social media metrics, taking into account influencer and brand followings, multi-platform mentions of products, hashtags and related keywords.

So, what are the key trends for 2020? Here are the styles that look set to define this year’s wedding season for brides and their guests. 

Sustainability is more than just a fashion trend and the wedding industry is taking notice.

According to Lyst, brides are becoming increasingly conscious of a wedding’s financial and environmental implications when it comes to their outfits on the big day.    

The change in attitudes towards sustainable fashion continues to impact the bridal market, with more and more brides looking for vintage pieces. Online searches for wedding dresses that include the words “vintage”, “second hand” or “pre-owned” are collectively up 38 per cent year-on-year, averaging close to 19,000 searches a month. 

Lyst also highlights an increase in searches for simpler, more minimalistic wedding outfits that will not date and can be worn long after the wedding day is over.

Searches for timeless slip dresses from the likes of Asceno, Galvan and Rasario are up 64 per cent quarter-on-quarter, while searches for white blazers and white jumpsuits are up 19 per cent and 36 per cent respectively. 

The Little Women effect

A trend inspired by the costumes seen in Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of the 1868 novel Little Women, puff sleeves are set to be big news for brides this year with searches for the style increasing 38 per cent year-on-year.

When it comes to the brands to watch, Lyst highlights Mother of Pearl and Cecilie Bahnsen as the most searched labels among consumers looking for big sleeves.

However, it also predicts that 2020 will be dominated by the oversized tulle and uber-romantic gowns designed by Simone Rocha, with searches steadily increasing over the last year by 45 per cent and page views spiking 64 per cent in the 24 hours following the brand’s autumn/winter 2020 show.

Mid-length bridal dresses have also seen an increase in demand with 27 per cent more mid-length white dresses on Lyst year-on-year. 

The rise of the two-piece

The modern-day bride is prioritising personal style and comfort over convention this year. 

For 2020, Lyst states that two-piece bridal ensembles are on the rise following a string of high-profile celebrities, including Zoë Kravitz, Ellie Goulding and Hillary Duff, wearing them at their own wedding receptions. 

According to Lystt, ASOS is the breakout brand in this category, with over 3,500 brides choosing to wear the ASOS Edition lace crop-top maxi dress on their wedding day. 

It’s all in the details

With wedding dresses getting simpler, brides are giving accessories, such as hair bows and pearl earrings more importance, with both seeing significant increases in views compared to last year.

Online searches for face veils, as seen in the autumn/winter 2020 collections of Rodarte, and Carolina Herrera are also on the rise (306 per cent), while small bags, which are perfect to keep bridal essentials on hand, have also seen an increase in demand, with pieces from Jacquemus, Shrimps and Cult Gaia driving the most sales.

The same goes for wedding guests too, with designer headbands continuing to be in high demand, with searches up 28 per cent over the past four months, year-on-year. 

Crystal-embellished and knot headbands have seen the strongest increase in searches with accessories designer Jenifer Behr leading the trend with searches for the brand rising 75 per cent over the last six months. 

Go bold or go home

Floral motifs have become as much of a mainstay during wedding season as free-flowing alcohol and dance offs, but this year guests are scrapping ditsy blooms in favour of bigger and bolder designs.

According to Lyst, daring florals looks set to become a favourite among guests for 2020, with data indicating their continued growth in popularity over the last year, with searches for floral dresses currently up 46 per cent.

Elsewhere, searches for fringed pieces have also been on the rise and are currently up 25 per cent for fringed dresses and 138 per cent for fringed bags.  

When it comes to the top brands, it seems guests are not scrimping for their friend’s big days with The Vampire’s Wife’s retro-inspired gowns, which are a favourite of the Duchess of Cambridge, continuing to see a growth in demand, with a 19 per cent increase in views year on year.

At a time when investing in clothing that is versatile and made to last seems so important, minimalist style is more attractive than ever. And while wardrobe staples and these timeless essentials are a great start to laying the foundation for a no-fail, no-fuss wardrobe, there are still a few spring trends that even the most minimal of minimalists wouldn’t be able to pass up. These solid, elegant silhouettes and neutral, wear-everywhere accessories will fall effortlessly into place with your current wardrobe. From knitted separates and elevated basics to chunky chain jewelry, shop five spring trends minimalists are loving this season.

Knockout Knits

Coordinating separates just got a whole lot cozier thanks to the top-to-bottom knits trend. You can now (appropriately) dress entirely in soft cashmeres and ribbed wools thanks to relaxed yet thoughtful design elements and chic silhouettes that are similar to what you’d find in something with a bit more structure. Swap pleated skirts for full ribbed knit maxis, poplin shirting for soft polos, or stiff leather trousers for comfortable wide-leg pants. For the ultimate minimalist take, stick to shopping separates that fall under one color palette.

Joseph Cote Anglaise Ribbed Wool Sweater

Joseph Cote Anglaise Ribbed Wool Maxi Skirt

Christopher Esber Draped Wrap Midi-Skirt

One of the biggest (no pun intended) spring 2020 accessories trends were supersized bags in soft, non-structured shapes — coined as the “big softie”. Both soft leather shopper totes and relaxed canvas weekenders can be used on a daily basis. While they are practical when you need to carry many things, these large bags will look just as chic if you have only a card wallet and lip balm stashed inside.

Tibi Dimanche Bag

Bottega Veneta Arco Slouch Bag

Hayward Grant Two-Tone Shopper Tote

Loewe Cushion Canvas Tote Bag

Short Suiting

The slouchy suit is no stranger to minimalist style. But this spring, its tailoring has been cut short, making the style particularly well-adapted to the warmer months. Whatever you want to call them — the bermuda short, the knee-length trouser, even culottes — these bottoms pair perfectly with spring’s blazers. Plus, the long-short silhouette works with both transitional footwear and spring’s key styles, like knee-high boots, clunky oxfords, and glam ‘90s sandals.

Pixie Market Vanilla Button Blazer

Pixie Market Vanilla Bermuda Shorts

H&M Double-Breasted Belted Jacket

Novelty Necklines

Elevated basics is the name of the game when it comes to modern minimalism. Take these, otherwise basic knit tanks and tops for example. Their necklines have been twisted, slashed, and cut out to visual perfection. This spring, minimalists and it-girls alike will show off their décolletage in neat new ways. Simple scoop necks will no longer cut it.

Zimmermann Wavelength Asymmetric Tank

Peter Do Knit Asymmetric-Neck Tank Top

Helmut Lang Rib Knit Raglan Pullover

Dion Lee Rib Holster Tank Top

Goldsign The Rib Asymmetric Tank

We saw the chunky chain strap emerge in September just before fashion month. It became one of the most popular bag trends of the season. It didn’t take long for the dramatically oversized chainlink to catch on beyond handheld accessories and make its way into the jewelry market. So it comes as no surprise that the seemingly heavy, large gold chain collars and arm candy from the likes of Bottega Veneta, Paco Rabanne, and Laura Lombardi were quickly adopted by minimalist aficionados and street style stars.

Paco Rabanne Chain-Link Necklace

Bottega Veneta Chunky Chain Bracelet

Kenneth Jay Lane Polished Gold Toggle Bracelet

Ellie Vail Freya Chunky Chain Necklace

Fashion
will never be stagnant. 

Instead,
trends swiftly come and go in the world of fashion. Sure, this keeps things
interesting, but it can make your life tough as an industry blogger. 

That’s
because you need to do more than know the trends — you have to stay ahead of
them. Doing so can be a challenge. So, brush up on these seven skills, all of
which will help you remain at the forefront of fashion.

1. Watch — or Attend — Fashion Week

Fashion
Weeks in London, Paris, Milan and New York City introduce the world to the
clothes and accessories that will be in style next season. As such, studying
the runways can help clue you into upcoming trends and shop for them before
Fashion Week styles hit the shelves.

You
can attend Fashion Week in person. Depending on your level of popularity as a
fashion blogger, you could get invited to shows for free. Or, you can buy a pass to go on your own.

If
none of those options pan out, try and watch the runways online. Or, peruse
galleries of models posing at the end of the catwalk. You don’t have to be
there in person to notice trends and patterns in all the shows. 

2. Flip Through Fashion Magazines

Another
place to find the next big thing is on the pages of a fashion magazine.
Editorial photoshoots often reveal upcoming trends. Plus, magazine interviews
with designers will present their take on what’s next. The head of a fashion
house probably has a good idea, and they’ll have a hand in guiding the trends,
too. 

You
likely know the fashion magazines you should subscribe to as an industry
professional. Among the top titles
are Vogue, Elle and Harper’s
Bazaar.

3. Study Celebrity Stylings

Instagram
gives you the chance to follow just about every celebrity’s day-to-day life.
Follow the most fashion-forward celebs, and you will have a clear idea of
what’s to come, clothes-wise. 

Many
famous people get fashion gifted to them from big-name brands. What they wear
will be at the forefront of the industry. So, keep an eye on their stories and
posts to see the exciting wardrobe items they’re rocking. 

Of
course, you can get similar information from red carpet and paparazzi photos,
too. That way, you can have a little bit of everything — streetwear and
formalwear included. 

4. Keep an Eye on Your Surroundings

Perhaps
you live in a major city like New York or Los Angeles. Chances are, the very
people setting fashion trends are all around you. 

So,
when you’re out and about, keep an eye on those around you. Make a mental note
of new fashion stylings you haven’t seen before. You can try similar looks and
blog them. 

Even
if your new ideas aren’t necessarily trending items from top designers, you’ll
still be pushing your looks forward. Trying new things is what the industry is
all about, and streetwear can be a huge inspiration. 

5. Follow Stylists on Social Media

Another
way to keep tabs on trends is to know the stylists who set them. These people
choose daily wardrobe and red carpet looks for celebrities. They know what’s
coming, trend-wise. So, following them on social media could apprise you to the
same information. 

Your
best bet is to follow
stylists
whose clients’ style you admire. For instance, Karla Welch styles fashion icon
Tracee Ellis Ross, while Zerina Akers dresses Beyonce and Mimi Cuttrell keeps
the Hadid sisters looking fresh. 

These
stylists are likely to share the looks they’ve pieced together for their
celebrity clients. You can use such posts to help inspire your wardrobe
selections. 

6. Don’t Forget the Accessories

It’s
not just your clothes that need to stay fashion-forward. You’ll have to keep
tabs on accessories trends, too. That’s everything from shoes to jewelry to
bags to trending swimwear if summer’s around the corner. In the
winter, check out the swimwear that’s
coming during the summer months to stay ahead.

If
you’re a fashion blogger on a budget, home in on accessories. Let’s say you buy
on-trend shoes and a new purse. Wearing these accessories with the basics in
your wardrobe will make you look trendy, even if you haven’t invested in an
entirely new outfit. 

7. Trust Your Instinct

You’re
a fashion blogger for a reason. You love the industry, and you know how to
dress. If you want to wear something that’s a little bit out there, trust
yourself. 

Eventually,
style is an outward expression of your personality. Your take will be different
than the next person’s. So, you want to stay on trend, but you should strive to
stay true to yourself. 

Stay Ahead of the Curve — in Your Way

With
the above tips, you can do just that. Choose the trending pieces that speak to
you and feel like your style. Your followers have come to appreciate it, after
all. Your take on the trends will be valuable to them, no matter what. So,
start dressing with tomorrow’s trends in mind. Your followers will appreciate
you for it today.

Design by Ingrid Phram / Photos: IMAXTREE

Much of the fall 2020 season was marked by an apocalyptic vibe that found its way onto the runways. From Balenciaga’s flooded floors to Thom Browne’s Noah’s ark pairs, not to mention the cancellation of some shows in Milan, the outlook was dour. Even though designers had no way of knowing what was coming, it felt like the trends shared that mood—to wit, very dramatic all black was a recurring theme. But that really was the admittedly chic exception to an overall optimistic season. Actual brides (what could be more joyful?) and full-on kira kira glitter walked alongside fringe pieces, fabulous red dresses, and giant statement-making coats. Perhaps in a nod to sustainability, there was also a leaning into the classics, from Upper East Side ’80s ladies to prep-school tropes and Scottish plaids. Lingerie looks, all shades of nude, and some seriously interesting sleeve work were also at play. See what else the fall 2020 runways had in store and shop the looks now.

White Wedding

Tom Ford, Givenchy, Khaite, Paco Rabanne, Richard Quinn, Prabal Gurung, Simone Rocha, Brandon Maxwell, Giambattista Valli; Design by Ingrid Phram / Photos: IMAXTREE

The bridal market is booming, and it seems ready-to-wear designers are getting in on the action. Woe is the fashion bride who comes to face with a sea of strapless faille without a bias-cut or statement-making bodice among them—but no longer. In the hands of Brandon Maxwell, with a sleek two-piece bandeau number; Tom Ford, with a one-shoulder body-hugging lace gown; and Khaite, with a cutout, long-sleeve statement dress with an open back, among many other standouts, almost all fashion girl bridal problems are solved.

Balenciaga, Oscar de la Renta, Givenchy, JW Anderson, Tom Ford, Off-White, Paco Rabanne, Versace, Marc Jacobs; Design by Ingrid Phram / Photos: IMAXTREE

It can sometimes seem that we’ve been living in the era of minimal neutrals. Track the amount of beige Instagrams with 200K-plus followers for proof. But perhaps maximalism isn’t dead if all the kira kira-level sparkles coming down the fall runways are any indication. Morphing into a human disco ball is the number one cure for situational sadness, according to experts. Marc Jacobs, Erdem, Balenciaga, and Oscar de la Renta agree. A girl needs something to dance in after all.

ADVANCED GALLERY

Big Fur Energy

Miu Miu, Celine, Valentino, Michael Kors Collection, LaQuan Smith, Isabel Marant, Longchamp, Giorgio Armani, Stella McCartney; Design by Ingrid Phram / Photos: IMAXTREE

The bigger the fur, the closer to God? We don’t think that’s how it goes, but maybe there’s some truth there. With our unpredictable weather patterns, we have no way of knowing if next season’s fall and winter will be all sunshine and heat spikes or blizzards and polar vortexes. But if it’s the latter, we’ll be well prepped in some seriously statement-making furs. Designers got creative with what they’re spinning them out of—be it knits that appear like furs, real fur that’s sustainable, or the latest in faux inventions—but we’re ready to make an entrance in the likes of Celine, Miu Miu, and red Saint Laurent.

The Merry Widow

Givenchy, Carolina Herrera, Off-White, Vera Wang, Oscar de la Renta, Brandon Maxwell, Rodarte, Brock Collection; Design by Ingrid Phram / Photos: IMAXTREE

It seems so trite to proclaim that black is back. Let’s be honest, New York’s favorite hue has never truly fallen out of favor. It is being elevated to first lookout status for the first season in many though, and it’s doing so with a definite degree of capital-D drama. That giant face-obscuring hat at Givenchy, the sweeping ruffled collar at Schiaparelli, that neckline with that veil at Herrera, not to mention Oscar de la Renta’s tulle bodice—we don’t know whether she’s the merry widow holding onto all her cash in style or the ultimate “showing up to your ex’s funeral” meme, but either way we really like her.

Intimate Apparel

Christian Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, Lanvin, Mugler, Rodarte, Tom Ford, Saint Laurent; Design by Ingrid Phram / Photos: IMAXTREE

Usually, we associate dour times with covering all the way up—it’s the hemline index, folks, and it’s real. So let’s take all of these lingerie-inspired looks as a sign of serious optimism. Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, and Mugler are all about sheer black underpinnings as outerwear, and we’re here for all the body positivity. Saint Laurent paired black latex with a bra, and we could see Bella Hadid heading out for a night on the town in it, while others went the bra top route for a subtler nod to boudoir.

Tailored Jackets

Burberry, Christian Dior, Gucci, Max Mara, Miu Miu, Ports 1961, Saint Laurent, Versace, Tory Burch; Design by Ingrid Phram / Photos: IMAXTREE

From New England sailor girls at Gucci and Miu Miu to Burberry’s collegiate sweaters, a great gold-button navy blazer from Saint Laurent, and yachting stripes at Versace, there’s a newfound appreciation for classic Americana style creeping up on the Fall 2020 runways. She’s all about the navy, white, and stripes. A good tailored jacket need not be shrunken or oversized. And while we have no illusions about the good old days, we do appreciate a little prep in our step.

Red Dress Diaries

Valentino, Alberta Ferretti, Carolina Herrera, Christopher Kane, Bottega Veneta, Balenciaga, Mugler, Rodarte, Giambattista Valli; Design by Ingrid Phram / Photos: IMAXTREE

Not since the heyday of Valentino red in the ’90s has the color felt more relevant. Of course, Pierpaolo Piccioli gave us his take on the brand’s signature shade on a stunning, glimmering red turtleneck gown. Rodarte went sheer and French dotted, and Bottega Veneta gave us the perfect louche evening gown, while Balenciaga’s super-form-fitting red dress-pant combo was somewhere between Madame Grés and an especially fierce ballerina. In other words, there are many ways to get in on the red dress look this season, and none of them is subtle.

The Whit Stillman Effect

Chanel, Isabel Marant, Loewe, Self-Portrait, Dolce & Gabbana, Alessandra Rich, Proenza Schouler, Versace, Saint Laurent; Design by Ingrid Phram / Photos: IMAXTREE

Whit Stillman’s seminal film, Metropolitan, will forever stand as a love letter to the Upper East side ’80s girl. Not all ’80s references are created equal after all. She of the big sleeves, hair bows, and taffeta is Stillman’s ’80s lady. She’s Blair Waldorf’s ultimate inspiration and maybe her aunt. She’s oversized Chanel coats and cross-body bags. She’s tweedy red jackets with velvet lapels. She’s back and better than ever.

All the Flesh Tones

Fendi, Akris, Altuzarra, Balmain, Bottega Veneta, Christopher Kane, Alexander McQueen, Jil Sander; Design by Ingrid Phram / Photos: IMAXTREE

From a leather biker jacket and pleated skirt in caramel at Fendi to a long-sleeve column dress in beige sequins at Bottega Veneta to a chocolate-brown vinyl bodysuit at Balmain, designers gave a whole new meaning to going nude for the fall 2020 season. Let’s call this the Fenty Beauty effect, which casts a wide net, offering every beautiful shade of every beautiful person. The runways showcased a range of complexions that—and here’s the real clincher—covered up the body. They gave the illusion of flesh without actually showing it, communicating that, at least in this instance, fashion is really skin deep.

Such a Tassel

Bottega Veneta, Nanushka, Christian Dior, Salvatore Ferragamo, Gabriela Hearst, Prada, Jil Sander, Area; Design by Ingrid Phram / Photos: IMAXTREE

There’s no denying that wearing fringe is tricky. With ample amounts of loose-hanging tufts moving and flowing in every direction, it is not the best option to wear from nine-to-five—hence why it is often relegated to glitzy soirées and costume parties. Designers this season, however, took the hassle out of the tassel. For example, Bottega Veneta created chunky cords at the end of teddy coats, Etro and Zimmermann placed them on elegant ponchos, Gabriela Hearst lined them on suede trenches, and Paco Rabanne fastened them to modest wool dresses. Of course, there were titillating offerings at Christian Dior and Area (a fashion season wouldn’t be complete without them), but the overall message was that all could benefit from fringe throughout the day.

Strength in Arms

Alexander McQueen, Acne, Christopher John Rogers, Isabel Marant, Dries van Noten, Chanel, Etro, Marni; Design by Ingrid Phram / Photos: IMAXTREE

Pronounced shoulders convey fortitude, control, and chutzpah. But for the fall 2020 season, romance was added into the mix, and this primarily came in the form of mutton sleeves. Also known as the gigot sleeve, the style delineates voluminous shoulders that taper down the arm. It is typified by queens of England, Disney princess, real-life princesses (à la Princess Diana’s wedding dress), Gibson Girls, society swans in the ’30s, and the oeuvre of Christian Lacroix. All this speaks to a bygone era, when glamour and fantasy were the crux of the fashion industry. The modern-day versions, though, are sleeker and more structured (ribbed sweaters at Isabel Marant, camel dresses at Balmain, shimmering blouses at Christopher John Rogers, and tweed jackets at Chanel), but imbue a wistful vibe nonetheless.

Plaid About It

Celine, Burberry, Chloe, Hermes, Maison Margiela, Lanvin, Tibi, Sacai, Roberto Cavalli, Victoria Beckham; Design by Ingrid Phram / Photos: IMAXTREE

It’s a mad, mad world, and a great way to overcome it is with plaid. The exuberant pattern has long been part of fashion’s vernacular, seeing itself in varying degrees on the runways season after season—especially at Burberry, its grandest proponent. But for fall 2020, other labels took the ubiquitous motif for a spin, casting it onto pieces that exemplify each of their aesthetics. Marine Serre featured it on framed double-breasted coats over a bodysuit, Celine had it on cool capes, Maison Margiela added a woolly lining, Proenza Schouler went for edgy peacoats, Chloé stuck to the ’70s, and Victoria Beckham opted for sleek day dresses covered in the print. There is dynamism attached to wearing plaid that isn’t as flamboyant as other prints. And in troublesome times, we could use some of that energy.

A Trench for All Seasons

Louis Vuitton, Tod’s, Coach, Saint Laurent, Miu Miu, Loewe, Chloé, Marc Jacobs; Design by Ingrid Phram / Photos: IMAXTREE

Fashion loves to revisit prevalent styles from the past and make them new—and fall 2020 was no different. Case in point: Many designers presented a certain type of coat that harks to the ‘70s, a decade that was on the cusp of bohemia, entering glam rock, and all about disco. Indeed, all these characteristics exemplified the chic topper at the presentations of Louis Vuitton, Balenciaga, A.W.A.K.E. Mode, Saint Laurent, and Marc Jacobs. They all showed overcoats with long, sleek silhouettes that were punctuated with oversized collars made of fur or shearling. Still, each stamped their signature to the groovy style, giving their designs a modern-day lift with interesting fabric choices and colors.

Royal Ascot updated its dress code to allow jumpsuits for the first time in 2017, and this year male racegoers are getting an update to their dress code as the most fashionable event of the summer social season. 

For the first time, navy morning suits will be permitted in the Royal Enclosure for the relaxing the strict rule for men to wear either traditional black or grey, and more ‘playful’ ties will also be allowed.  

This year, the world-renowned Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire has also sought sustainable brands for its ninth annual Style Guide in association with luxury cruise brand Cunard. 

The guide predicts pastels and florals will be the key trends of the summer alongside innovative millinery, and with an emphasis on being eco-friendly female racegoers are being encouraged to buy second hand or rent their outfits.

ROYAL ENCLOSURE 

Recognising emerging trends in formal menswear, navy morning suits are permitted in the Royal Enclosure for the first time

Hat: Edwina Ibbotson, £3,500 Dress: Suzannah, £1,850. Bag: Aspinal of London, £450. Shoes: Jennifer Chamandi, £550 

Hat: Jane Taylor London, £716. Dress: Roland Mouret £,1895. Shoes: Manolo Blahnik, £825. Emerald and diamond ring: Garrard, POA (left).  Right: Hat: Philip Treacy, £3,420. Dress: Solace London, £590. Shoes: Manolo Blahnik, £775

This year feathers, pastel-toned sequins and statement floral suits with metallic accents are some of the fashion highlights for women in the coming season. 

Ethical and green brands are at the heart of the 2020 Guide which champions reselling sites where members pay to rent outfits which are changing the fashion landscape. 

To make it easy for racegoers to dress to impress, and to the standards, the Style Guide has been broken into each enclosure and suggested outfits for each. 

QUEEN ANNE ENCLOSURE 

There is a more relaxed dress code in the Queen Anne Enclosure where men don’t have to wear morning suits, but strapless or sheer dresses are not permitted 

Floral prints feature in the 2020 Style Guide with this pastel blue dress suitable for the Queen Anne Enclosure (left). Feathers and soft tones feature throughout the Style Guide (right)

 Hat: Rachel Trevor-Morgan, £845. Suit jacket: £1,880, Trousers: £1,180, Mark Katranzou. Shoes: Emmy London, £395 (left). Right: The Queen Anne Enclosure has slightly more relaxed rules in comparison to The Royal Enclosure. Peach and lilac tones echo the pastel tones for the season. Hat: Ana Bella Millinery, £280. Dress: Christopher Kane, £1,495. Shoes: Kalda, £270

The exclusive Royal Enclosure, which is often described as ‘the heart’ of the event, has always had tight rules. 

In previous years, it has insisted attendees cover their midriffs and avoid wearing fascinators and that still stands. 

Hats should be worn in the Royal Enclosure with the base of a headpiece measuring at 4ins (10cm) or more in diameter while fascinators are not permitted. 

WINDSOR ENCLOSURE 

Hat: Debenhams, £90. Top: £79 and skirt £119, Ted Baker. Belt: £69 and shoes: £139, both Hobbs (left).  Hat: Debenhams, £150. Blazer £65, waistcoat £45, shorts, £36, River Island. Shoes: Boden, £110 (right)

Classic tailoring is a key trend for men at Royal Ascot. Classic tailoring is a key trend for men at Royal Ascot. Pictured: Blazer: £275, Shirt: £85, Trousers: £125, Shoes: £175 all from Reiss (left). Right: Headband: Boden, £15. Dress: Reformation, Hurr Collective, £61 for one week’s rental. Shoes: Sandro, £239

Subtle metallic nude is the perfect ensemble for the Windsor Enclosure (left). Navy is a standout trend for men in the Style Guide with this tailored suit for the Windsor Enclosure (right)

The Queen Anne Enclosure has slightly more relaxed to the Royal Enclosure yet strapless and sheer dresses are not permitted. 

A formal dress code was introduced for the first time in 2018 for the Windsor and Village Enclosures and a hat, headpiece or fascinator must be worn at all times. 

Featured looks in the Style Guide this year include designs from Roland Mouret, Christopher Kane, The Deck, Mother of Pearl, Suzannah, Huishan Zhang and Temperley London. 

Menswear sees a fashion milestone for 2020 with navy morning suits introduced for the first time in the Royal Enclosure. 

And to celebrate the key date for 2020, official licensee Favourbrook has designed an exclusive collection that features a superfine merino wool navy three-piece morning suit found on the cover of this year’s Guide.

VILLAGE ENCLOSURE 

Bold metallic and silver tones make a standout feature and are suitable for the Village Enclosure in the 2020 Royal Ascot Style Guide

The Village Enclosure introduced a formal dress code for the first time in 2018 and a hat, headpiece or fascinator must be worn at all times

For men, classic tailoring, light double breasted suits with playful ties and soft pastel tones are at the forefront of formal wear for this year’s racing event.  

How To Dress Well For Ascot  

Royal Enclosure 

Dresses and skirts should fall above the knee or longer 

Dresses and tops should have straps of one inch or greater

Jumpsuits are welcome, but should fall below the knee

Trouser suits welcome, but should be full length and of matching colour

Headpieces must have a solid base of four inches or more

Queen Anne Enclosure

Strapless dresses or tops are not permitted

A hat, headpiece or fascinator should be worn at all times

Trouser suits must be full length, jumpsuits should fall below the knee, shorts are not permitted

Village Enclosure

One shoulder dresses, strapless tops and bardot are nor permitted 

A hat, headpiece or fascinator must be worn at all times 

Trouser suits are welcome, they should be of full length and matching colour 

Jumpsuits are permitted but should be below the knee  

Windsor Enclosure 

Dress for a formal occasion, with a hat or fascinator

Working closely with stylist Prue White, Ascot has curated looks that were captured by world-class fashion photographer Carla Guler for all four Royal Ascot Enclosures. 

The Royal Ascot Style Guide features millinery from the likes of Philip Treacy OBE, Jane Taylor, Awon Golding, Lock & Co, William Chambers Millinery, Sarah Cant, Edwina Ibbotson, Rachel Trevor Morgan and Julian Garner.

Juliet Slot, Chief Commercial Officer, Ascot Racecourse, said: ‘Royal Ascot sets the trends for event dressing across the summer season and we’re really pleased that we are recognising both British designers and sustainable fashion as key 2020 trends in this year’s Royal Ascot Style Guide.

‘Each year we carefully curate a selection of fashion-forward looks suitable for each of the four distinctive enclosures. 

‘We are also delighted to have included a number of sustainable labels this year, in-line with the changing face of global fashion, and rental and resale sites that are set to continue growing in popularity.

‘This year’s team has delivered a strong edit of key looks which, combined with the best of British millinery, will maintain Royal Ascot’s position as the ultimate fashion event in the racing calendar and continue to shine a global spotlight on summer style. 

‘We are extremely grateful to Cunard for their continued support as we continue our brand partnership for a third year.’

This year’s Royal Ascot runs from June 16th to Saturday 20th.    

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