In reality, I’m not in Italy; I’m in bed. But that doesn’t mean I’m not there in spirit, live-streaming each show from Milan Fashion Week, stalking the Instagram stories of my favorite editors, and combing through page after page of street style looks. All in all, the vibes were understated and casual in that ever-so-intentional way the fashion girls are so good at executing. I took note of the 7 biggest trends and am breaking them down, including the best places to shop the looks, below.
Knee Deep
My Catholic school-educated inner child finds this hard to believe, but knee-high socks are pretty cool right now. Whether paired with traditional suiting or something unexpected, like shorts, this trend might be worth digging through your bottom drawer.
Aya Muse Off-White Eris Socks
Wolford Denier Knee Highs
Black Is Back
Did it ever really go out of style? No, of course not. But, honestly, I think we’ve gotten lazy when it comes to all-black dressing. It’s a go-to for many of us—myself included—and we might be too comfortable in our colorless comfort zone. When I say black is back, I mean inspired black outfits were plentiful this fashion month. Reinvigorate your own uniform staples with a fresh LBD and perhaps a pair of flats for fall.
Veronica Beard Roxanne Stretch-Linen Shirtdress
On the Prowl
Me-ow! I love a cheeky bit of animal print, so I was ecstatic to see these fun accents throughout Milan’s best-dressed attendees.
Markarian Le Tigre Wrap Coat
Marc Jacobs The Zebra Mini Dual Bag
Jean Paul Gaultier Leopard Print Long Sleeve Mesh Dress
Turn Up the Volume
“Flattering” is so yesterday. Why make yourself small and diminutive when fashion is about being expressive and creative. Take broad strokes, go for the puffy skirt, wear the shoulder pads!
Simkhai Kenlie Taffeta-Trimmed Gown
Helsa Tech Gabardine Zip Jacket
Charmed, I’m Sure
It was the summer of bag charms, and if Milan is any indication, that trend isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
Coach Bear Bag Charm
Anthropologie Icon Pearl Bag Charm
Non-traditional Knits
Maybe I’m just unimaginative, but I only ever think of knits as sweaters and cardigans. Fashion week-goers showed up in crochet dresses, rompers, and two-piece sets, among many other woven gems.
Free People Picnic Sweater Romper
Ganni Embroidered Metallic-Knit Mini Dress
Double Trouble
This wasn’t on my trend bingo card, either, but twinning is in. Believe it or not, there were more dynamic duos in Milan than I could showcase here. And no, you don’t actually have to be twins. Bold pairs can wear the exact same outfits, or if you fancy a more subtle approach, try splitting up a coordinating set or wearing different iterations of the same print.
Me + Em Houndstooth Wide-Leg Pant + Box Top Co-ord
Mango Check Skirt with Slit
