5 microtrends to try before the end of the year

As the end of the year is approaching, too many trends have come and gone at the pace of a refreshing screen. On the screen or the street, more than a handful of you have seen YSL’s infamous glitter boots, Gucci’s statement sunnies, Balmain’s fringed skirts and Dior’s berets.

Given that you want to try those trend-driving items, why not you try these five Insta-friendly trends until New Year’s Eve?

Ruching

Bands of fabric pull together, constricting each fold tighter than a pleat. As each fold becomes a drape, it hugs the curves of the body, leaving you to look like you lost five kg. My friends, this is called ruching. As seen on Beyoncé and her ilk, this runway-ready trend can take you from happy hour to New Year’s Eve.

Be it a top, pants or dress, you can go easy with a million combos from your closet. However, it will take you higher than the Sky at 57 when you pair anything ruched with a textured pump (e.g. velvet or snakeskin) and blinged out bag.

Star motifs

Twinkle, twinkle little star. Instead of looking up at the sky, rock the galaxy-inspired motif on the streets! You can go easy in small doses (for instance, an earring or a pair of sneakers) or ball out to the max (for example, a printed dress).

As one of the most underrated runway trends (as seen on House of Holland), the star print can be easily paired with anything: fur coat, sneakers, jeans, etc. Before I forget, you can also try this with a microbag! Pull out your Kirakira+ app and ‘gram your #ootd!

Front slit pants

Before you clean your closet again, one of your older sister’s favorite 2000s trend is coming back! As a modest cousin to the thigh-grazing Angelina Jolie dress, the front slit pants dares to reveal your gym-toned calves and feet. Initially, it might seem intimidating, but it’s actually super easy to style it with thin ankle strap sandals and pumps!

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Socks with high heel sandals

Socks and sandals are the bread and butter of the decade. While it’s best known as a combo worn by dads and rappers, the look gets a ladylike makeover when paired with open-toe heels (think Valentino Resort 2018).

Sheer or opaque; printed or plain, your socks are the key to anchoring the look. Try this trend at a party, girl’s night or brunch! Never will you ever have to worry about going out with un-pedicured feet ever again.

Contrast straps on shoes

Your English teacher’s definition of compare and contrast are taken to the next level in the most literal form. Unlike its “rah-rah!” bedazzled cousins, the contrast strap is like a silent bidder ready to take the top price of a treasured artwork. Whether it be on the shaft, ankle or on top of the toes, the strap draws attention to your feet regardless of any silhouette.

From Malone Souliers’ elegantly refined mules to Off-White’s streetwear-friendly “For Walking” ankle boots, the “It” trend of footwear is here to stay.

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