Hitting the road or jetting out this holiday season? Shop the versatile trends that have proliferated this season, and satiate wanderlust in style.
By Voralak Suwanvanichkij / Photos By SIAM PARAGON, IMAGE.NET & STYLE.COM.
The exhilaration of being on the move, the thrill of adventure, and the wonder of novel experiences…nothing is as exciting as travel. And when coupled with the perfect outfit, you’ve got it made. Here are some must-have trends (and tips) from this season’s fashion runways – perfect for traveling in style.
Paint the Town Red
At the moment, oxblood – an offshoot of red with deep purple or brown undertones – is all the rage. This musky hue, similar to the color of burgundy wine, has been readily seen in the collections of designers Alexander Wang, Gucci, Diane von Furstenberg, and Proenza Schouler. And it has made its way from the runways to the streets, thanks to its almost neutral feel and hence, versatility.
Oxblood is appearing on everything, from dresses and jeans to outerwear; it also features prominently in abstract and floral prints. Played up or down, oxblood is one of those shades of red that, when paired with the right colors and accessories, inspire a range of emotions. From simply stylish to sultry or sophisticated, it’s a fantastic travel companion.
All that Glitters
For instant, eye-popping color, go for gold. Taking the form of brocade, foil, leaf, sequins and embossed surfaces, for example, the golden shine cannot be ignored. It’s flashy, yet exudes a luxe, decadent feel. From Baroque flourishes, accents, and prints to full-on gold, the gilded look lends a sense of glam to dresses and coats – perfect for those into jet-setting lifestyles.
From wallet-friendly global retailers H&M and Zara to the fashion houses of Roberto Cavalli, Prabal Gurung, and Dolce & Gabbana, gold is everywhere. When the gilt dominates, let it shine. Along with black, it is best not to let other colors (or jewelry, except for gold earrings) take away from this winning combination. The brocade dress or skirt – golden flourishes against a black backdrop – is certainly one knockout piece with enough versatility and grandeur to take you through holiday parties on the road and beyond.
Dark Side
Not into oxblood or gold? Do not despair – basic black has not been forsaken. To appeal to your inner goth, this season’s top designers, including Gucci, Givenchy, and Versace, have paired the brooding color with dark lace and as midnight-hued accents. This year, black exudes edgy glamour and pairs nicely with velvet, silk, lace, sheer chiffon, and leather. It also works with accessories such as ornately studded necklaces and fierce-looking spiky boots.
Plaid About You
Lidya
Available in practically any iteration one could desire, plaid has moved way beyond the button-down shirt (which remains a perennial favorite among both men and women). It works so well anywhere in every which way –it’s perfectly comfortable for exploring a hip urban locale, or getting back to the great outdoors.
When donning these patterns, avoid getting overwhelmed – either stick with one prominent plaid piece or several small plaid accessories. Plaids in light pastels and bright colors are more modern and feminine. For shirts, consider the fit; fitted tops are more chic and easier to dress up with dark colored leggings, scarf, belt, and heeled boots. Also, bolder pieces may draw attention to certain parts of the body, so avoid checks on the bits you would prefer not to highlight.
Prints Galore
Graphic florals are in bloom everywhere, from jeans and tailored trousers to button-up blouses and scarves, this winter. This ultra-feminine print is highly adaptable; it exudes every tone, from lighthearted sweetness to sophisticated glam, transforming basic pieces into conversation-starters. Whether simply geometric or retro paisley and blooms, bright flowery prints and flourishes are part of an instant vacation-ready ensemble – great for sending the year-end blues packing.
A striking variation on this style is to match all your prints. This season, some designers, including Rochas and Miu Miu, had their models strut down the runway in matching prints from head-to-toe. One way to make this busy look work is to keep your shoes and handbag simple, and in a solid color. Also, minimize accessories to keep the look confident and chic.
This, That, and the Other
When it comes to travel, nothing beats denim. Whether stylishly accented with leather, gilded in gold for a more polished look, or simply the classic indigo blue, denim is rough and ready to go wherever, whenever. This season, update your denim collection with a pair of on-trend oxblood or gothic black, or shop for denim vests to toughen up sweet frocks or tops and provide extra pockets that have proven to be handy while on the move.
With both a utilitarian and luxe feel, leather is another tried and true favorite that has been constantly revitalized on the fashion runways. A leather jacket is nothing new, but it makes an appearance, along with skirts to slick pants, in the collections of many designers, including Prada and Yves Saint Laurent. Such leather pieces will prove useful towards the end of the year when the weather gets cooler.
Another trend is to wear leather as an accent, adding character to your look; this works well for those traveling to warmer destinations. Instead of donning leather pants, coats, or dresses, choose accents like collars, piping, sleeves, and accessories such as clutches and belts. Fur is another current trend-setting trim. This season’s variations include fur accents on dresses, jackets, and purses.
Whatever your style preferences, add adventure to your wardrobe this season. Balancing form with functionality, take that fresh look (and outlook) on the road. Bon voyage!
