Every New Year transpires an intangible desire to better ourselves; whether it be the department of health and fitness, self-care or even personal style. For 2019, we’re challenging you to step out of your sartorial comfort zone and switch up your signature look with a “cool-girl” statement purchase or two.
Don’t be intimidated. Mastering an enviable aesthetic is easier than it sounds – all you need is one of these unique, Instagram-like-bait-esque closet upgrades which run the gamut from trendy reptile boots, exaggerated headbands or statement bags. Arm yourself with the following picks, 2019 is going to be a (stylish) blast.
Introducing everyone’s go-to dim sum, bag-edition. This quote unquote Dumpling Bag from the new Milanese bags and accessories brand Emily Levine is equal parts whimsical and chic. Artfully handcrafted in India by local female artisans, made with upcycled antique silk saris and finished with a beautiful bamboo top handle. With all the makings of an up-and-coming Instagram hit, this It bag – in all its other stunning renditions, colourways and unique prints, is a definite must-own for the new year.
Emily Levine Raw Indian Silk Dumpling bag, €250 (S$391.63)
Move aside fanny packs, a wallet that double as a necklace is the new “practical” accessory that’s trending hard right now (also, we heard that wallet bags are all the rage this season too). The perfect size for your bank card, a couple of notes and some spare change, the Le Pitchou coin purse from Jacquemus is the perfect go-to for those sick and tired of the hasty, last minute bag excavation whenever the bus arrives.
Jacquemus Le Pitchou coin purse, S$299, from Farfetch
Spinning off from our newfound love for reptile printed cowboy boots and the reigning animal print trend of 2018, these stunning pointed toe mules from Chloe are slithering their way into our hearts – and maybe even our closets, should we allow it. Crafted in calfskin designed with a watersnake print, these super cool kicks feature oversized scallops along the edges as a nod to the house’s timeless scalloping detail on their shoes.
Chloé pointy Lauren mule, US$696 (S$948.79)
The simplest and best way to give your look an instant ‘cool girl’ appeal is to add a pair of statement, out-of-the-ordinary ear danglers. These bamboo-inspired hoops from Sydney-based Instagram famous brand Valet Studio will do the trick in this case. Team with a dreamy floral maxi frock for a vintage appeal and a contemporary look.
Valet Studio Elodie earrings, AUD$149 (S$143.35)
If the S/S ‘19 shows of Prada, Dior and Simone Rocha were of any indication, oversized headbands with over-the-top ribbons, studs and jewels are about to crown the heads of fashion’s hottest It-girls everywhere this 2019. Available for pre-order right now, this chunky cherry red satin headband from Prada offers a classic French girl appeal; it’s like a beret, but not really. Wear this with your brightest, reddest lipstick, a simple tee and a pair of jeans.
Prada glow slim satin headband, pre-order for S$350, from Luisaviaroma
Bringing to mind a ski goggles and shield visor sunglasses, mega-lens shades are going to be huge this SS ‘19. Trade in your pair of micro sunnies for these tortoiseshell-acetate pair from Givenchy, a cool rock ‘n’ roll accessory that’ll surely turn up the edge for any outfit.
Givenchy Mask tortoiseshell acetate sunglasses, S$380, from Matchesfashion
Noughties kids, picture your Bratz doll from back in the day, and these instantly come to mind: Chunky platform boots with massive disco vibes. Everyone needs a go-to of pair of party shoes signature to them, and these Saint Laurent Billy sequined boots will allow you to shine in full glory every time it’s Ladies Night.
Saint Laurent Billy 140 zebra sequinned platform boots, S$8,850, from Farfetch
Take a tailored suit, but make it casual. That’s what the brand of Instagram’s It-girls, Orseund Iris, did with this sophisticated number: A cropped box blazer in charcoal wool that cuts sexily above the midriff, and a matching pair of pinstriped, high-waisted trousers that hug the hips before falling into a flare at the ankles.
Orseund Iris Box blazer wool charcoal, US$925 (S$1,328.83); Orseund Iris Flare crop pant wool charcoal, US$875 (S$1,192.54)
It’s back to the ‘80s once again, as Dundas gives us yet another reason to embrace the era of shoulder pads and a riot of colours with this spectacular ruched metallic mini dress. Detailed with reflective gold and silver feather-like patterns, voluminous puffed sleeves, and a plunge neckline, this fil coupé crepe number makes for a head-turning party outfit.
Dundas ruched metallic fil coupé crepe mini dress, US$3,760 (S$5,125.63), from Net-a-Porter
An indulgent purchase can sometimes be the best thing you’ve ever done for your wardrobe. Take this fur-trimmed coat from Saks Potts for example, feminine and classy with a touch of ‘50s elegance, this timeless number will look glamorous on you now, and even serve as an heirloom for posterity. Made from 100% lamb leather and finished with plush fox fur, this coat is the epitome of luxe.
Saks Potts foxy fur-trimmed leather coat, S$2,349, from Mytheresa
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