You’re probably someone who has trouble keeping up with the current trends. Every time you catch onto a trend, the fashion world is already moving on to the next. It does seem like trends are coming and going faster than ever thanks to social media. But there are wardrobe staples that have a longer shelf life.
How do you keep up with the trends? By looking toward the next year. In addition, if you invest in a few wardrobe staples or timeless pieces, then you’ll always be ahead of the curve. It’s impossible to become a trend hunter overnight. But in this guide, you’ll find some insider information on the denim, handbag, and shoe trends that have increased in popularity — and will continue to gain popularity in 2020 as told by Caitlin Craig Lawrence.
The great thing about some of these trends is that you can start wearing them now. Most of them are classics while others are a fresh take on an old style.
1. Snake Charmer
You can thank Taylor Swift for this trend making a comeback. Throughout much of her Reputation album era and world tour, the pop star was seen in faux snakeskin outfits. She even wore snakeskin boots, as seen on her archnemesis, Kim Kardashian. But Swift can’t take complete credit as the snake print trend has been all over Instagram and it’s not going away anytime soon.
It’s a coincidence that snakeskin has increased in popularity, especially in the shoe world. Ever since this trend first emerged in Fall 2018, that demand has increased three times, according to Sasha Skoda, head of the women’s department at The RealReal. Snakeskin is no longer being seen as a print. It’s now considered a neutral that you can wear anywhere, including the office.
2. Crocodiles & Alligators Handbags
Expect to see a resurgence in crocodile and alligator accessories. This trend is especially strong in footwear and handbags. Like snakeskin, crocodile and alligators have become one of the most popular neutrals for handbags and purses. It’s so popular that Hermès has a popular handbag line called the Exotics.
How can you tell the difference between crocodile and alligator? The scales on alligator print are much larger, which is different from the finer appearance seen on crocodile prints. You’ll also notice that the scales are larger and square with a rougher appearance. Handbags that are made from alligator are more durable and feel thicker than your average leather handbag.
3. Colorful Strappy Sandals
It’s safe to say that strappy sandals are totally sexy. Whether they’re sky high or low to the ground, this style is particularly flattering on the foot. The great thing about these shoes is that you can wear them with anything in your wardrobe. They look as good with a pair of wide-legged denim jeans as they do with a curve-hugging dress.
But it’s not the same strappy sandals that have been dominating Instagram in the past few years. Strappy sandals that were popular in the late 90s and early 00s are making a comeback in a strong way. Most fashionistas are searching for vintage styles in bright colors such as green and yellow.
4. Over-Sized Pearl Jewelry
Pearls are always a classic. You can’t go wrong with a pearl necklace or pearl-drop earrings. But it’s all about the oversized pearl. There has been a 75% increase in demand for pearls in the last year. Jewelry is going to take a bolder approach in the fall and winter seasons with larger baubles and statement accessories as seen on Burberry and Prabal Gurung’s runways.
5. Top-Handle Bags
Top Handle Bags are a returning trend in 2019 fashion
The top-handle bag has been carried by everyone from Kendall Jenner to Hailey Baldwin. It seems like every celebrity “It” girl has one. You can’t go without this convenient back which comes with a detachable cross-body. That means you can go hands-free as you walk around the city or enjoy a night out on the town.
Some of the most popular styles are vintage handbags. Fashion designers and creative directors are getting more inspired by the handbags of the past. The top-handle bags from decades past are increasing in demand and popularity. Some of that demand has doubled in the past year and has been embraced by Generation Zers.
6. Slouchy Jeans
As they say, everything old is new. That means those baggy jeans you wore in the grunge era are making a strong comeback for 2020. This trend has already kicked off in March 2019 thanks to celebrities and street style bloggers. That means the fashion world is finally saying goodbye to skinny jeans and is embracing baggier denim.
There has been an increased demand for this looser-fitting style. So, it’s clear to see that this trend will only continue to rise. This silhouette is perfect for the spring and summertime, with its breezier and easier styles. You can wear your baggy new jeans with a playful off-the-shoulder blouse and slip-on loafers.
7. Kitten Heeled Sandals
It seemed like there was a time in fashion when everyone and their mom was sick of kitten heels. But that’s not the case anymore. Demand for Manolo’s kitten heels has risen to over 64%, its highest demand in the last decade. Since the footwear industry has shifted from style to comfort, kitten heels have been outperforming stilettos.
8. Cargo Pants
The new cargo pants don’t look anything like Dickies. There has been an increase in cargo pants and utility pants. This pant is the perfect transitional pant, whether you’re transitioning from spring to summer or fall to winter. You can wear an olive green cargo pant with a white tank top and white tennis shoes for a casual and chic look. When it gets cold, you can pair it with ankle boots and a utility jacket in the same color.
These are just some of the trends that are taking flight right now. You can hop onto these trends by investing in a few key pieces that will match back to the pieces that you have in your wardrobe, according to Caitlin Craig Lawrence. Remember that you don’t have to purchase the trendiest item. The key is to invest in a high-quality piece that will get plenty of wear and will last for years to come.