What's hot and what's not - surviving the fashion cycles
One moment it’s platform heels and next it’s ballet flats. And just when you thought rocker chic is here to stay, up comes the revival of preppy fashion.
Trends for hairstyles, colours and fabrics change at breathtaking speeds. Before you can start wearing out your latest boot cut jeans, fashion pundits now declare that skinny jeans are the way to go this season.
Depending on one’s perspective, fashion can be a fickle thing and it has become a real challenge keeping abreast of the fashion world without becoming a slave to its fleeting whims and fancies.
Knowing the fashion cycle
Conventionally, trends begin with a new creation from a top fashion designer. After appearing on high profile runway showcases and retailing at high-end stores, it finally trickles down to the masses at affordable prices. By then, the trend may have already faded away because people have grown sick of seeing it everywhere.
However, people are now taking their fashion cues from beyond the runway. Television, music or even just a culture of a community can spark off a new trend.
Even old trends can be brought back to life. Look at how the swinging 60s or the disco 80s have made a glamorous comeback in today’s fashion!
Trying to spot the next trend is as good as trying to foretell the future – it’s a futile and dizzying effort!
Making a tough call – IN or OUT?
With limited pocket money to spend, nothing is more agonising than spending the week’s allowance on a new fashion item that ends up going out of style in a few months!
Putting aside any hopes for predicting the next fashion trend, here are a few practical things that you can do to stay on top of the trend-spotting game:
- An eye for longevity
Avoid styles that are unlikely to last long, like big hats or designs with drastic cuts. Even if those neon pink shirts look fabulous on you, think twice before dumping all your money into one as it may fade away in a blink of an eye. - Be practical
Draw a line between looking good and being fashionably uncomfortable. With our hot tropical weather, there is little point in wearing knee-high boots and thick fur jackets -- you may become a walking sauna! 
Classic beauty
Consider getting a wardrobe of classic designs. Black and white never goes out of style, and neither do plain shirts and jeans. They may sound boring, but with the right accessories and the right attitude, you can bring out the sassy fashionista in you anytime!- Be a smart spender!
There’s no need to empty your wallet for designer labels. In fact, why be a slave to every fashion trend? Go with your own style and bargain hunt during sale seasons or at flea markets. Make every penny work for you too by redesigning your old clothes. Use your imagination and give it a new spin. It is possible to look good without spending a lot!
Your fashion expression
Instead of adopting a cookie-cutter look right out of the latest fashion magazine, why not be creative and express your unique style? Personalise your clothing, make your own accessories or shop at unexpected places. You’ll definitely stand out against the crowd, at a fraction of the cost of what some others might be paying!
So take it easy, be yourself and express your confidence. That’s the one constant you can count on amidst the whirlwind changes of the fashion world!
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