​Top 5 womenswear trends for SS18

Erdem SS18, photo from Vogue

Every season we are presented with so many trend options that it can get overwhelming to know what to focus on.  After looking through nearly a hundred SS18 collections I present five key trends to incorporate into your wardrobe that will leave you wanting more.

1. Feathers, fringe and fluff – seen at Balmain, Erdem and Moschino just to mention a few, adding feathers and fringe to clothing and accessories is a tactile way to stay ahead of the game.   Add to sleeves, the hem of a skirt or as panels furnishing a whole dress but just check that care label before washing so your Swan Lake garment doesn’t become a bird’s nest.
2. Ruffles – seen at Balmain, Chanel and Rodarte, the ruffle trend isn’t going anywhere.  Wear all-over for a dramatic entrance or wear on your smaller half if you are top or bottom heavy.
3. Shoulder armour – big, fierce shoulders were seen at Balenciaga, Alexander McQueen and Lanvin.  A revival of the ‘80s trend which was a revival of the ‘40s trend, this season it means business.  This trend comes in several guises, whether a sharply-padded blazer or over-the-top shoulder puffs on blouses, and is great for bottom-heavy gals. 
4. Rehash – check out the shows of Alexander Wang, Christopher Kane or Vivienne Westwood and you’ll find garments that have asymmetrical cut-outs or extra fabrics attached in unexpected places.  Not for wallflowers, this trend will get you seen.  Then again, if you’re a little shy now might be a good time to embrace this eccentric trend which will boost your confidence for its bravery.
5. Pastel pretty – seen at Tom Ford, Michael Kors and Victoria Beckham, wearing head-to-toe pastels is massive this season.  You can do this by matching a dress and shoes or layer separates in the same pastel colour.  Experiment by bringing different pastel shades up to your face first to see which ones make your skin and eyes glow and then commit to a whole outfit in that shade!

Bonus trend tip: the Pantone shade for SS18 is ultra violet so grab a garment in this shade to incorporate in your wardrobe.  If this vivid colour doesn’t work for you as a garment then buy an ultra-violet accessory instead.