2013 has been a year of some interesting (to put it politely) trends. I think I've rejected more of the popular trends this year than in the past and gladly so. A lot of the trend inspiration in the past year was drawn from the 90s, which was definitely not a decade of great style. Have you ever looked at your childhood photos from the 90s and cringed? Well, that's what you're going to do in 10-20 years when you look at your photos from 2013. Let's discuss my 5 least favorite trends from 2013 and what should replace them in 2014.
1. Crop tops
While some crop tops can look very sophisticated and classy if paired properly, they're still over-worn. I think this was an excuse for the extremely skinny to show off their bodies without being called provocative or other derogatory words. This trend rules out anyone with an ounce of body fat and reminds me of the "sporty spice" look.
Replacement:
What I'd love to see is a more modest crop top over a very high-waisted bottom. Instead of the outfit centered around, well, your center, it would elongate your legs. I'm picturing a slouchy cropped sweater with a pair of slim fit high-waisted jeans or a flowy floral maxi skirt.
2. Cut out boots
The idea of cut out boots is cool and adds a funky style factor, but I think some fashion trends just don't function well. Boots are meant for cooler weather and to keep your feet warm and the cut outs absolutely defeat that purpose. You can't add fun socks to cut out boots because that will defeat the design purpose, but you need them to keep warm. There is only a very short period of time where the weather is right to wear these shoes.
Replacement:
Keep the ankle boots, but also keep the material around the ankle. I love the ankle boot trend and think it's truly a classic that won't go out of style. It's perfect for transition weather, comfortable, and versatile enough to go with any type of look from preppy to hipster.
3. Fur everything
I'm going to blame this trend on Macklemore. After the song
Thrift Shop came out in August 2012, the fur trend spiked. Fur coats, fur bags, fur scarves, fur vests, fur shoes, you name it - it comes in fur. I've always refused to wear real fur because I feel like you can never really trust that the animals weren't harmed in the process. I'm okay with faux fur, but I think one or two great faux fur pieces is enough for one closet. Fur is such a statement piece that you really only need one great fur coat or vest and mix up the rest of the outfit.
Replacement:
Go donate your furs to
PETA because they're donating fur coats to the homeless. There's no way to go back in time and save an animal, but consider buying a vintage fur coat instead. There's plenty of them out there and the look of a long, luxurious faux fur coat is timeless. Keep ONE fur coat (if you must), although I must urge faux fur. I know fur can look better, but spend a little extra on a nice faux fur and your conscience will be clear.
4. Skorts
Seriously, how did these become trendy again?! These remind me of those awkward pre-pubescent middle school years and that is never a good thing. Vintage is always in, but I wouldn't quite consider the 90s vintage quite yet. These are essentially the opposite of cut out boots - all functional, no style. I get it; shorts under your skirt make moving easier and don't reveal your panties on a windy day, but I think for most of us, the 90s are too recent to repeat this trend anytime soon.
Replacement:
Shorts. Okay, okay, I know this isn't the most exciting fashion idea I've ever had. I'm picturing shorts that hit mid-thigh in fun J. Crew inspired prints. Their functionality is at a max and I think they could be really trendy in some sophisticated prints and styles. Why relive those awkward 90s middle school days with a skort when you can just wear normal-length shorts, which work for anyone at any age.
5. Sequin sweaters
This is the trend that makes sparkle lose its' shine. Sequins are supposed to be for special occasions like New Year's Eve or a weekend in Vegas, not for being a glam princess in a sweater. My inner 6 year old is screaming at my current self for writing this, but it must be said. I do love my fair share of sequins as you can tell from yesterday's shoe crush, but I don't think they belong on sweaters. If I'm wearing a sweater, it's to be cozy and comfy, not to be glam and fab.
Replacement:
Solid knit sweaters may have been more trendy this year than ever, but they will never go out of style as long as fall and winter exist. I think a solid knit sweater paired with sequined accessories would make for a great compromise between comfy and glam. Add a slouchy sequined clutch or sequin loafers to an outfit of jeans and a sweater and you're ready to face the day (or night).
