Back to the Future: What’s About to Trend

“You know the pendulum will eventually swing back the other way.” I cannot tell you how many times I’ve heard my mom say that about almost anything, be it the economy, personal promiscuity, or crime rates. I have to say, I’m beginning to see her point.

We think that as a new generation what we’re doing is unprecedented, never been seen. To a certain extent, that’s true; I’m sure no one thought about wearing raw meat to an awards show pre-Gaga. But the underlying motivations behind trending fashion tend to fluctuate in a way that very much mimics the past, or more specifically, what’s going on in the world.

For instance, was it any coincidence that hemlines began to rise during the 1920s and 1930s? Sure, the advent of jazz music and flapper dresses were heavy influences, but fashions that used less fabric and were therefore less expensive during an economic depression surely could not have been an accident. Same idea in the ’60s – massive upheaval and social change sort of caused newer fashions to deviate completely from previous styles.

Now to the pendulum swing. This part of her statement means that for a while, hemlines will get shorter, images more promiscuous, people will spend money more recklessly, etc. But eventually, people will tire of this and begin to conserve their spending, invest in pieces that last, and usually dress a bit more conservatively. Now, this isn’t a recognized social theory or anything, just the musings of family members. But with that in mind, here’s some of the trends forecasted to be at fashion’s forefront in the near future.

Dressing down lace – Long thought of as a formal fabric, lace has made its way into many designer outfits considered more casual. These skirts from Ann Taylor and Papaya represent different age groups, but are still worn as part of a laid-back look.

Short suits – There’s been increasing debates on how casual is too casual for the office. I’m not here to comment on how I feel about the short suit, but I can tell you that it’s on the rise.

Strong prints – You already know color blocking is the next big thing. You also know, thanks to Style Quirk, to check out Pantone for all that’s new in color trends. But I have seen large, bold prints in a number of runway shows online, from animal print to this Vera Wang frock. Be brave, be beautiful!