New York Fashion Week may be over, but it won’t soon be forgotten. And not just because of the tantalizing (and titillating) trends it unveiled. The event was rife with indelible moments, from the models at Yeezy Season 4 buckling under the unseasonable September heat to a surprise performance by Rufus Wainwright at Michael Kors. As the fashion army marches on in Europe unveiling more of what’s to come for spring 2017, we’ve rounded up the top eight trends from the New York runways.
Trend #1: Bright Stripes
Unlike the classic Breton stripe, which has typically been the domain of French gamines and preppy ladies, spring’s bright stripes are bold and over the top. Primary colours and exaggerated silhouettes make a standout statement, although when paired with classic black accessories this look is sophisticated and classic.
From top: Rosie Assoulin; Alice + Olivia; Proenza Schouler
Trend #2: Hello, Yellow
A colour more associated with Big Bird than big style, yellow made a strong statement on the spring catwalks. It was bright, bold and cheery – much like Mr. Bird himself – and took tonal cues from the sunshine we’ll all be craving come next summer.
From top: 3.1 Phillip Lim; Tibi; Creatures of Comfort
Trend #3: Bra Tops
Designers embraced the bra this season, showing all manner of the boulder holder – from sexy leather to girly florals – as a legitimate substitute for T-shirts and blouses. The look was equal parts provocative and pretty, and when paired with a high-waisted skirt or pant, surprisingly quite wearable. If you dare.
From top: Victoria Beckham; Alexander Wang; Oscar de la Renta
Trend #4: Layers of Ruffles
When it comes to spring, ruffles are almost as ubiquitous as florals. But unlike the subtle and sophisticated ruffles of seasons past, this time volume drove the trend. Layers of ruffles reminiscent of a mille feuille cake adorned otherwise sleek silhouettes offering an interesting balance between flounce and fashion.
From top: Altuzarra; Rodarte; Rosie Assoulin
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Trend #5: Over-the-Knee Socks
Not since Cher Horowitz blew our minds with her clueless observations on political affairs have over-the-knee socks made such a strong showing. We can thank the ’90s redux (that was especially prevalent in runway hair and makeup) for this divisive trend that’s being positioned as the natural follow-up to thigh-high boots.
From top: Marc Jacobs; Tommy Hilfiger; DKNY
Trend #6: Enormous Earrings
It seems every piece of jewellery has received the zoom treatment over the years, from gigantic knuckle-duster rings to gravity-defying necklaces, so it was almost expected that earrings would be next. Though perhaps not quite this large. Shoulder grazing, multi-tiered and downright scene-stealing, earrings are large and in charge for spring. Time to start exercising your lobes.
From top: Altuzarra; Delpozo; Rodarte
Trend #7: Flashy Flatforms
Need a lift? You’ll definitely be getting one next season. Although footwear trends ran the gamut from ladylike slides to basic white sneakers, souped-up flatforms (they’re like a platform, but completely flat) undoubtedly stole the show. There’s nothing subtle about this trend, so you might as well accept that doing it right will involve punky spikes and loud prints.
From top: Coach; Proenza Schouler; 3.1 Phillip Lim
Trend #8: Slouchy Sweatshirts
Thanks to the athleisure trend that has been on the fashion radar for the past few seasons, designers continue to offer stylish takes on our comfort favourites. Next spring, play with proportions by layering a cool and cozy sweatshirt over your swimsuit, mini dress or micro shorts.
From top: Marc Jacobs; Yezzy Season 4; DKNY