"SIGNS OF THE TIMES": 3 TRENDS THAT ARE A DIRECT RESULT OF THE CURRENT STATE OF SOCIETY

WRITTEN BY SHARRA GREENE

Fashion goes so much deeper than what we wear… it provides insight to our human experience'; the good, the bad, and the ugly. As the year continues to unfold, I can’t help but to observe what we’re choosing to wear as a collective, and what that may tell us about the state of our society. Here are a few of the most prominent trends that you can expect to see running rampant from the runways to the workplace and everywhere in between.

STYLE STAPLES FROM THE EARLY AND MID 2000’S

From platform stilettos to bootcut jeans, I think all of the trauma and major world events that we’ve endured as a collective has caused us to reminisce and reach for what’s familiar. It’s no secret that fashion repeats itself, but we’ve been very intentional about bringing back certain key pieces that remind us of past eras that we’ve lived through. I think it that it gives us a feeling of comfort and reassurance, as we maneuver through uncertain times wearing pieces that many of us have known and loved for decades now.

FASHION WITH A POLITICAL MESSAGE

The ESR Tote by Brandon Blackwood.

Gone are the days where fashion and politics are separate. We’re in a time where designers are drawing inspiration from injustice, environmental dangers, and more, and using their designs as a way to speak out and emphasize a need for change. From Brandon Blackwood’s beloved ESR tote (as seen above) to a collective focus on supporting black owned and sustainable brands, I’m confident that we will continue to see the worlds of style and world issues collide.

VIBRANT COLOR & TEXTURED ACCESORIES

The Foxxy Bag by Kendall Miles Designs.

I think spending so much time isolated in uncertain times also has made us realize how short life is, and how important it is for us to make our mark while we’re here. Everyone from the conservative corporate professional to the modern minimalist is starting to get a little more bold and expressive when it comes to their style, especially when it comes to accessories. It’s quite evident with handbags.

For example, whereas many once had a go-to bag in classic black, beige, or brown, I believe fashionistas worldwide are longing for more vibrant staples that get them noticed. I’ve been hearing my most recent clients express a need for this, and I believe it’s also a direct result of the cabin fever that many of us suffered through following quarantine. A statement piece sparks conversation, which I think many of us took for granted and our longing for.

Can you think of any more current trends and how they relate to what we’re going through? I wanna hear! Let me know in the comments!

Sharra,

“Empowering her evolution through style.”

3 STYLE HABITS THE STYLISH WOMAN SHOULD DITCH IN 2022

WRITTEN BY SHARRA GREENE

So at the top of the year, I shared with you 3 style habits I think we all could adopt as we enter a new year. This week, I’m here with a few bad habits that I think hold our style back… read ‘em below.

BEING AFRAID OF A LITTLE GLAMOUR

I think with this now 2 year pandemic happening, we’ve all struggled with this one. Athleisure became the norm and now it feels almost unnatural for many of us to feel as comfortable as we once did in a dressier look. But with major fashion moments, from the Hanifa show, to Sergio Hudson’s “Return to Glamour” collection, I’ve been challenging myself to add a little glam back into my looks, whether it be a statement pair of earrings, a bold handbag, or a fun faux fur to add something to a casual look. You’d be surprised how a little glam can lift your mood.

SLEEPING ON YOUR SWEATS

This one is also a casualty of quarantine. We’ve gotten so comfy in our sweats just being chill clothes, that many of us forget how chic a sweatshirt can actually be. Dressing up a sweatshirt with a sexier bottom like body-hugging jeans, statement accessories, and fun heels is always an option when you’re in a pinch and need a last-minute dressy-casual look.

SHOPPING BLINDLY

I always tell my clients, the quickest way to lose money on clothing is to shop without knowledge on what works for your body type, as well as what key pieces will maximize your options when you get dressed in the morning.

While I’m definitely not someone who believes in being confined and restricted with style, I’ve learned through dressing myself and countless other women, just how much knowing what looks best for your unique look, and having a style strategy can enhance your confidence. This year, let’s let go of shopping just because an item is trending or there’s a sale, and start being more informed fashionistas!

Which bad habit will you be kicking this year? Let me know in the comments! P.S. P.S…. All my Style Source Members got this advice days ago! Don’t be sleeping! Join my Style Source for FREE style tips just like these sent to you weekly!

Sharra,

“Empowering her evolution through style.”