The puffy trend is fashion's playful take on dealing with inflation

Looking Bomb

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Everyone has to take a page out of Kendall Jenner’s style book. This surrealist balloon bomber jacket quickly made its way onto everyone’s Instagram feeds last year and we can all see why. It’s over-the-top yet totally wearable when paired with classic straight-legged jeans. The supermodel-approved fluffy cowboy hat is optional, but we’d rather go with a padded bag and heels to match. 

Just A Little Leg

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Perhaps the subtle approach is more up your alley. Channel the ’80s with a pair of puffy leg warmers by Norwegian fashion house Holzweiler, which can be attached to any shoe. Stick to the neutral colour palette from head to toe, but if you’re in the mood for a little sparkle, a metallic cable-knit Saint Laurent cardigan will do the trick.

All Bubbled Up

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Classy, whimsical and sassy. A bubble hem dress is a Y2K trend that deserves so much love. It teeters perfectly between minimalist and maximalist sensibilities with its simple design but voluminous execution. Of course, the lilac hue of this Balmain ensemble also gives it that candy-like feel, making it even more adorable. Balance the look out with a pair of understated mules and a mini bag.

Funky Town

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Merge cool and cute with an elevated streetwear look centred around leather parachute cargos that puff up at the ankles. Let’s do away with the gilet since our year-round tropical weather has no use for it, and opt for a cropped vest top instead. Last but certainly not least, slip on some Nike Jordans for that drip.

Best Fruit Forward

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AREA’s recent fruit-themed FW23 collection has won the hearts of fashionistas all over the world. While we wait for those looks to drop later this year, why not dress like the king of fruits instead? This Christopher Raxxy sweater mimics the outer shell of a durian while the pale yellow top matches the decadent flesh which so many Singaporeans enjoy. Don’t forget to add some spiky accessories like a pair of shades and a choker – both in green, of course.

Keep It Comfy

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We love dressing for comfort just as much as everyone else, so let’s strip this trend back with a simple look. Start with a black quilted skirt with an elastic waistband, followed by a striped top with sheer panelling and a puffy shopper. Finish off with some ballet flats – picture-perfect and ready for Sunday brunch with the gals.

Power Puff

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When in doubt, go monochromatic. For this look, keep the bottoms busy with a pair of high-waisted padded pants featuring a weave pattern and go simple with a long-sleeve crop top. Keep jewellery to a minimum or none at all and let the fit do all the talking. But never leave the house without a bag and in this case, the Coach Pillow Tabby in pink is a no-brainer.

Tabby Shoulder Bag 18, $631, Coach

Credit: Coach

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This article was originally published in Harper's Bazaar Singapore.