Fashion | Top 5 Trend Busters for SS15

Let's get back, back to basics...! Always the best way to start a New Year. Before you clear out your wardrobe for new stuff, take a look at our top 5 tips for updating your look for SS15 now - you might just have what you need already. I know January is a long loooonnng month pay-wise, so I'm encouraging you to shop from your own stuff. See what you think...

1. A ‘tied up’ belt

As seen at Amanda Wakeley, Diane von Furstenberg (of course) and Givenchy this is a great way to cinch in flowing lines - dresses, skirts, coats, you name it, this belt (or indeed scarf) needs to go over it. I like a midi line with it; it packs a punch for femininity, but it’s sleek and modern too. This ASOS one (above right) is a steal, and the H&M scarf is gorgeous to whack some florals in too.

Use what you’ve got: Tie an old hip belt at your waist or try out new looks with sheer scarves over dresses.

Don't throw away: Waist belts, of any variety.

2. Denim

Such a huge trend this season. Don’t be afraid to double up - if you do, mid tone blues are best, saving the white/over-light and super dark stuff for the truly brave. As for the new jean, try out 70s skinny flares. I think a good denim/chambray shirt will see you through nicely - it’s a nod, surprisingly versatile and easy to incorporate into your overstuffed wardrobe. I like La Redoute, Baukjen (L-R above) and this one from Forever 21.

Use what you’ve got: Take your jeans from wallflower to star of the show by tucking in shirts (very 70s). January diets may apply.

Don't throw away: Anything denim, are you mad?


3. 70s Silhouettes

Yep, it’s still here. Think off the shoulder, big sleeves, floaty stuff. Boho is big and folky for Summer, so I recommend a cute embroidered peasant dress and wide leg jumpsuits (the former are easy with boots or up-the-leg gladiators, which are huge for Summer, and the latter suit chunky platforms and cut out sandals). Fringing is fun and is a great way to make a statement (see Céline - a nice modern update bridging sleek modern lines). If you want to jump right in, a big floppy hat (above, Missguided) is a nice transseasonal piece - as is a suede jacket or a furry gilet, another big tick this season. I like this trend ticking fringed jacket from Missguided and this jumpsuit from Boohoo. Also a fan of the New Look faux fur gilet to see you through the seasons, and the evening star stealer Girls on Film wide leg jumpsuit too (above L-R).
Use what you’ve got: Dig out anything suede, fringed and embroidered. Hats and belts are a must, don’t forget your gladiator sandals. Mini skirts and boots are a good alternative if your legs are a better asset than your waist.

Don't throw away: Kimonos, kaftans, bardot cuts, maxi lines, anything camel coloured or big hats.

4. Big Florals

Chanel went boho and Louis Vuitton went bold and printed, but they all went there. In line with 70s free love and hippie dreams, florals are a sure fire follower. Not for everyone, but these are big, bright and beautiful (check out Henry Holland). Go colourful. I like this Isabel Marant dress, but if you have my tiny budget this Topshop one will do nicely (above L-R). For this chilly weather, pair with over the knee boots or little ankle boots and a furry gilet.

Use what you’ve got: Scarves are a nice update (see up top), but if you have something bigger - trousers, dresses, tops - then be brave and just throw in a white shirt or black jumper if you’re being tentative. I promise it’s a cheery update!

Don't throw away: Past season sports luxe, monochrome and 60s inspired - it's still on trend, but in a a different way so hold tight (more on that later).

5. The New Normcore

Still quite sporty, but with a military twist. Easy relaxed lines, especially for coats and dresses (hurrah, good for bloat days/the entire month of January) with soft greys, nudes, greens and blues looking a safe bet. I like this cutie from Zara and this one from Mango (above L-R). Oh and this one at Gap does you for denim too... Oh and this Topshop dress. I'm done now.

Use what you’ve got: Dig out that trench coat/mac and grab that white shirt - new season shapes are boxy, oversized and long-line, worn open and relaxed.

Don't throw away: Beautiful and good quality basics.

So what do you reckon? Not too hard an update for now... more on the upcoming trends in the next few months (where you can really get down to picking what to leave to Vogue and what suits you).

Felicity