Photos from WGSN

In the coming year, it’s time we move fashion forward.
Fashion has always been a flexible form of art. Much like other mediums, its trends come and go at the snap of a finger or the turn of the tide. This coming year, however, the model of fast fashion appears to be nearing its end as sustainability wields more and more power on consumer behavior. 

Industry expert and De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) educator Roxoanne Bagano-Dizon shares where fashion appears to be headed. For her, consumers have begun to put a focus on personal expression and conscious consumerism.

“It is a greater celebration of unique personal style and a move away from mass-produced, homogenous trends,” shares Roxoanne. “Ethical practices are more deeply entrenched in the industry with an increased focus on eco-friendly materials, recycling, and reducing waste.”

Referring to data from WGSN, one of the world’s leading trend-forecasting companies, Roxoanne rounds up a number of next year’s necessities in the fashion world.

Timelessness remains a common theme for next year’s trends. As consumers look to responsible consumption, they start to look for outfits, accessories, and fashion pieces that can be passed on or worn for longer periods of time or altered to suit other occasions or moods. Think custommade tailor fits that can last their wearer a lifetime. Statement blazers with gender-inclusive fits like boxy and oversized shapes, flap pockets, double-breasted closures, and sculpted shoulders are expected to reign supreme.

Modern academia, in its preppy features, proves popular after receiving some subtle yet novel tweaks. Key details include artful checks, fluid maxi skirts with tiered, shirred, and ruched details, as well as tops and trousers with a hint of transparency.

Hoping to stand out from the crowd? Odd, asymmetric fit, altered garments, twisted and manipulated textiles, and unconventional poppers and zippers lead the way. Otherwise, those who prefer lowkey elements will find solace in the basics, relying mostly on decorative pieces to scream individuality. Think statement accessories from ornamental belts with contrasting colors, eye-catching buckles, and longer straps to matching rings and mixed-material bracelets. 

Unconventional outfits also call for super-sized shield shades while tinted options with metal or chunky frames offer various shapes and tones.
Increased practicality benefits everyone, as the approaching new year emphasizes a focus on utility. For the ladies, chic boilersuits, cargo pants, and structured jackets in high-end materials are a go-to. Meanwhile, for the men, functional details with a futuristic perspective are in—loose fits, statement pockets, and feature zippers. Softer and warmer color schemes with a minimalist approach lend a fresher look.

Finally, for shoes, Bagano-Dizon finds that the pointed-toe stands as a unifying shoe element, from pumps to knee boots. Highlights include statement mules with flat iterations and feature heels. Sandals with color-block straps and lugged soles complement the sartorial sports trend. Utility boots are in demand for practical influences.