Tricky Trends, Resurrected
It’s no secret, folks: fashion fluctuates in cycles. Just when you thought your jelly sandals had taken their last stroll through the park, those anonymous trend-setters make you to think again.
Despite the countless resurrections of fashion’s past, one principle has always remained consistent: trends are not for everyone. Just because it’s “in” doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Beyond the fact that we all have different personal styles and body types, we have a bunch of other human complications, too. You may even find yourself standing in the mirror asking, “Am I really being ‘me’ in these monster platform shoes right now? Or is this trend just ridiculous?” It’s the age old battle between identity and fashion. I think hope I’m not the only one who’s had this type of inner dialogue before. Tricky trends have been known to incite internal conflict and confusion, at least in my experience.
On that note, I’d like to bring your attention to some tricky trends that are in stores now. Ready for some ’90s nostalgia?
Holographic Shoes + Bags
Somewhere amid the butterfly clips, Lisa Frank folders and inflatable furniture were these lovely items….
Bet you never thought you’d see these shine in the light of day again, huh? Well, they’re back. All you fashionistas probably already knew this. But with summer right around the corner, I can imagine this trend picking up quite a bit of steam in the coming months. Here are your holographic shoes and bags of 2013:
Why it’s tricky: Anything shiny and iridescent is pretty damn tricky [in my book]. Too much of it can be a bit severe and overwhelming. That is, unless you want to look like the inside of a magician’s hat.
Like it? Here are some ways to work it: Keep it simple. Holographic accessories pack enough punch to pull together even the simplest of outfits. Oddly enough, a holographic accessory can actually function as a neutral because it goes with just about everything. But be discriminating with your accessories. Simply carrying a holographic bag makes quite the statement. With that in mind, an iridescent shine to the shoes wouldn’t hurt either.
More holographic shoes? Sure!
Jelly Sandals
Despite the blisters and sweaty soles, I loved my jelly sandals as a kid. Having the ability to walk around my pool with shoes on was a pretty rewarding experience, and probably still is.
PS – When I talk about jellies, I’m not talking about ballet flats from the ’80s or modern day sandals that are made from “jelly” material (those just aren’t tricky enough). I’m talking about the chunky heeled ’70s inspired jellies AND the caged-toe flat jellies from the ’90s.
Why they’re tricky: Look at them. Of course they’re tricky. They’re like a cross between Crocs and gladiator sandals (and maybe something else I’m not thinking of). I tend to believe the chunky heeled sandal versions are a little harder to implement into your wardrobe than the flatter versions – but again, that’s just me.
Like them? Here are some ways to work them: Amid all this trickiness is an opportunity for jelly sandal-wearing greatness. My advice: treat them like a normal pair of sandals and see where it takes you. I know that sounds like useless advice – and maybe it is – but you’ll never know ’til you try. If you have (or want) neutral colored jellies, they might be easier to match with an ensemble. When it comes to the wonkier colors, my advice would be to pair them with a matching outfit, or an outfit with complimentary colors.
An economical piece of advice: Darker colors are great for versatility and every-day wear. They could also translate well into the fall months (if you’re down to wear them with socks).
Not into the caged toe? Understood:
Transparent Shoes + Bags
Other than thieves and foot fetish people, who really needs to see inside of my bag and/or shoes? It was cool when I was a child and didn’t have a wallet. But now? I think this might be the trickiest trend of them all.
Why it’s tricky: This whole transparency trend is questionable. While I am prone to losing keys, gum, lady materials and pens in my purse, I don’t think I’d want to risk my privacy and let the world know about the physical accessibility of my belongings. As for the shoes – I think I have more questions than answers here.
1.) When you do heavy walking (especially on a hot day), won’t they fog up? And if you do sweat, how comfortable can that be for your feet?
2.) Who said having your skin smashed up against some plastic was attractive?
Like it? Here are some ways to work it: Questions aside, it really can be a playful trend if you do it right. I think (think being the operative word) this “clear” trend is not meant to be taken so literally. Mixed Materials + Color + Texture + Transparency = Success. I’ll explain:
This particular piece doesn’t make it seem like the world will be threatening to rob you of your belongings. Maybe it’s the beveled, glassy material. Or maybe it’s the orange-pink-clear color combination. Either way, it reminds me of some sort of jolly rancher hybrid, which seems like a lot of fun. It’s also compact, so it’s best used for special occasions where you won’t be needing everything.
An economical piece of advice: Zara has a cheaper, similar looking version of this clutch with a strap.
Now for the shoes:
I am pleasantly surprised at how elegant and simple a clear strap can be. It’s kind of cool if you think about it – just shiny, clear material bouncing off a bit of light. I wouldn’t mind a pair.
Transparent oxfords and/or sneakers might require some fun socks or stockings, depending on your preference and style. I personally think a colorful stocking can add some benefits to this trend. Much like the jellies, you can easily wear them into the next season. Curious to see oxfords without stockings? Here’s your answer.
If you’re at all interested in seeing more transparent shoes and accessories, WhoWhatWear made a great compilation for your viewing pleasure.
Alright, so what do you think? Any of these trends spark your interest? Make you shudder? Are there any trends you’d like to see brought back? I wanna know!
