There’s something about a scent that evokes feelings – nostalgia, intrigue, relaxation. Finding the perfect scent sets the mood and aura of your day. If you’ve followed along on Day in my Dreams, you know I’ve been a cult follower of the Maison Margiela Replica fragrances.
In fact, you can read a pretty thorough review of several scents in this Replica Perfume review.
Maison Margiela formulates more than just recipes for intriguing olfactory notes. Their Replica fragrance collection is forged to evoke fond memories and the nostalgia of cherished moments.
I recently shared a review of Replica fragrance Springtime in a Park, doing my best to indulge your senses in the Maison Margiela experience. Springtime in a Park is all about the gentle light and fresh floral atmosphere of the first days of spring.
Each of the Replica fragrances adopts a life of its own. If you’re not sure where to get started, you can discover a few of my favorite Replica perfumes to get a real feel of the entire collection.
Olfactory review of Replica’s new fragrance Bubble Bath
Falling in line with the elevated reputation, Bubble Bath is another intoxicating fragrance reminiscent of moment’s we can all relish in, slowly plunging into warm, fragrant waters as your body is soothed from all of the day’s tensions.
“This gentle floral fragrance is a bubble of comfort and freshness. The soothing notes of coconut milk blended with the clean freshness of the soap bubble accord recreate the relaxing feeling of a hot foaming bath.” – Replica
There is something quite of familiar about the scent that I can’t quite explain – something that makes you want to move in closer and go back for more.
More subtle and indulgent than floral, Replica’s Bubble Bath is that kind of soft scent that’s warm and comforting, yet some how fresh and clean at the same time.
I lightly spray the fragrance up my wrists and at the nape of my neck, and find myself running the length of my arm near my face to indulge in a deeper inhale of the calming scent.
It’s as if breathing it in slowly has a sort of tranquilizing effect all of its own.
The packaging of course is as beautiful as ever, indulging your sense of touch as well as smell with Replica’s signature raw edge linen label and cotton rope – reminiscent of an apothecary jar of something exquisite and unique.
If you’re in search of a new fragrance that calms as well as intrigues, I hope this review of Replica’s Bubble Bath perfume has guided you in your journey.
It will be my scent of summer as I embrace the fresh newness of 2022, while learning to indulge in more clear moments being present, and the luxury of soothing calmness… so needed in today’s chaotic world. Until next time, xoxo
In accordance with the FTC regulations for Influencers, the featured perfume was gifted to me by Maison Margiela Replica. All thoughts, comments and musings are made of my own opinion and honest, personal experience with the products reviewed or mentioned. I hope you’ve found this post informational and inspiring!
For all my millennial comrades wondering, y2k is making a monumental return – but this time as a fashion trend, not the end of the world as we know it. And this season it’s all about the aesthetic.
While 90’s returned almost as quickly as they ended, y2k may be the fastest fashion trend turnaround of all time. Celebrating an era of curious youth, simple tanks, bucket hats, chunky footwear and yes… low rise cargos are making a return.
Defined by pop culture, it’s a little less about bringing back Britney, and a little more about expressing style at that stage when you transition from youth to adulthood. As such, exploring what it means to feel “sexy” is a big definer of the trend, mixed with whimsical elements of youth.
Yes, we’re talking teeny-tiny mini skirts and butterfly clips.
So what exactly does the evolution of y2k fashion look like almost 25 years after it’s first debut? Here are some of the pieces making a comeback:
Low-rise jeans: Not everyone is ready to ditch their mom jeans, so you can expect to see a mix of high rise, boot cut denim and ultra low rise hipsters.
Wide leg pants and cargo pants: Get ready for more wide leg jeans and the return of cargo pants.
Ribbed cardigans: Cardigans have returned, specifically in ribbed knits and crop styles. Just like the 2000’s baby.
Teeny Tiny Mini skirts: Miu Miu made a big statement with their low-rise micro mini skirt on the SS22 runways. Let’s just say barely there is the new mini skirt standard.
Corset tops: The cropped, the better
Mesh second skin: For tops, for skirts, for the silhouette
Whimsical accessories: Yes, like the ones you made at camp. Whimsical childhood accessories are also making a strong comeback with plastic beading, bucket hats, scrunchies and bejeweled hair clips.
Who’s most excited about the return of y2k fashion
One of my very favorite fashion bloggers @jacquiealexander is absolutely killing the y2k fashion trend. Follow her for more inspo.
The word is out y2k fashion trend is just getting started, and FW23 runways are already following suit. So now may be a good time to start planning out your summer wardrobe.
Fall runways are already being littered with more of the trend from more low-rise denim to extreme mini skirts and shag jackets. Dare we mention the Juicy velour track suits… let’s hope not. But I won’t be betting on it.
Rihanna was recently quoted in Bustle, “the silver eyeliner I’m wearing right now is very y2k! It’s definitely where I’m at with beauty as well. I love that era.” – Rihanna
image cred @ootdsubmit features Kendall Jenner and Hailey Beiber
Fashion icons like Bella Hadid and Hailey Beiber are also rediscovering their love for the nostalgic fashion trends, often spotted in their favorite 2000s inspired pieces.
Where to shop y2k fashion
Don’t be afraid to stop at vintage clothing stores and second hand to pick up a few authentic pieces from the y2k era – they’re still readily available if your eyes can spot out the treasures.
Of course, high end designers have also adopted the trend, so if this feels like the new you, go ahead and invest in some Jacquemus and Miu Miu.
Miaou is basically defining the trend. Their entire collection exudes 2000s style. If you’re looking for something in the mid-tier fashion range, Revolve is littered with the trend with an assortment of 2 piece low rise skirt sets, y2k accessories, and casual essentials like baby tee crop tops, daisy cardigans, hair claws and checkered prints.
Planning to adopt the y2k fashion trend? My new Jacquemus bucket hat is my sign – I’ll be there. After all, what’s not to love about a nostalgic throwback to the simpler times of your early teens? I’ll see you there.
I sat there for a moment, sun warming my face. It was Friday morning. I had just finished with my morning routine – dressed, out the door, flipping through emails and yesterday’s analytics.
It’s the little things. Sometimes we forget to enjoy them.
Instead of stressing about the day’s deadlines, Friday at 8:57 – I was just in the moment. Listing to the musings of the birds just outside my windows, all singing their own tune yet somehow managing a perfect melody together. The song of morning, the sound of spring.
Take time to be present. We so often forget. Time goes by too fast. Make the most of the moments you’re in.
Looking for things to do from home or nearby that feel like a luxury experience? Every year there comes I time I pace restlessly considering what to do for those days you just can’t manage to hop on a plane to the next adventure. Especially the past couple of years, when you’re in search of new inspiration during lockdown.
If you’re starting to feel the ache of cabin fever, here are a few simple luxuries you can indulge in from home or nearby, anytime you need an escape.
Grab a coffee and go for a scenic drive
I’m all about efficiency, as such, I typically brew my java from home. But grabbing a coffee at a local coffee shop not only helps support local businesses, it’s also a $2 ticket to a French roast guided tour of the most beautiful areas in your city. Grab a venti, go for a drive, and discover some place beautiful you can enjoy from the warmth of your car.
Visit a local art gallery
Even most rural communities have places you can go to view the local art. Check out your local gallery listing and enjoy a day of artistic inspiration by yourself or with a friend.
Go out just for dessert
Want to experience something decadent? Skip dinner and go out just for dessert. You’ll be able to focus on the sweet treat without a steak dinner hangover, and something about an after dinner outing feels whimsical and indulgent.
Take a long soak and don’t forget snacks
After a long day at the office, there’s nothing quite as rewarding as an uninterrupted soak in a hot tub. Don’t forget the snacks and Epsom salts. Make your experience as luxurious as you want, with upgrades like champaign and candlelight.
Light a candle and curl up with a good book
Speaking of candles, a little light goes a long way in winter’s gloom. Light a candle, or a room of candles, and curl up with a good book. Luxury experiences are what you make of them, and setting the mood will give you the mental escape you crave.
Schedule a massage or spa day
A deep tissue massage is a part of many of my luxury escapes. Scheduling a massage or spa day from home almost feels like a resort getaway, minus the palm trees.
Play some music and create something
In an era of information, we’re on overload 99% of the time. Clear your mind and practice being present by putting on some music that gets you in a mood, and use your hands to create something. Paint, cook, or get artsy re-doing a corner of your home. Giving your mind simple tasks will give you a much needed mental escape from today’s havoc.
Anyone else desperate to create luxury experiences indulgent enough to actually enjoy a bit of the cooler season? Share your activities from home or nearby that help you escape.
You can thank Y2K fashion and the early return of 90’s and early 2000’s style. The bucket hat is officially back on the fashion scene. And with its laid back yet edgy vibe, there are plenty of reasons to embrace the trend.
What are bucket hats
Yes, I’m talking about the fisherman style hat with its narrow, downward-sloping brim. While fashion leaders and celebrities have been obsessed with the re-emergence of the bucket hat trend since 2020, they’re making even bigger headlines in spring 2022.
Fashion leading celebrities like Bella Hadid, Hailey Beiber and musician Duo Lipa have all been spotted wearing bucket hats on the repeat paired with beach style and street style alike.
The ever fashion social circle has also widely adopted the trend, rocking bucket hats with y2k fashion, retro outfits, and minimalist ensembles (my favorite of course).
image cred: Pinterest
I’ve personally just expanded my bucket hat collection to two. With a faux shearling style I wore through the cold season, I’ve just splurged on a new Jaquemus bucket hat as a staple for my spring and summer wardrobe.
While the weather is still chilly, you can style your bucket hats with cozy knits, tailored trousers and leather ensembles. For spring style, lighten it up with flowy shirts, beachwear, preppy style and your favorite 90’s throwbacks.
For my minimalist wardrobe, I opted for a luxury piece since I know this is something I’ll be able to rewear throughout the season. My top pick, the Jaquemus Off-White La Montagne ‘Le Bob Gadjo’ Hat.
the Jaquemus Off-White La Montagne ‘Le Bob Gadjo’ Hat. Image cred FWRD
Prada bucket hats have also been a key item, ranging from solid canvas to jeweled evening wear looks. You can shop them at most luxury fashion retailers. I grabbed mine from SSENSE, and you can shop my favorites from their assortment below.
The sun leaks promisingly into our windows, and a few beautiful weekends remind us that spring is just around the corner. Aching to show a little leg and catch some rays over the next several weeks?
The perfect balance of skin and coverage, these cozy, effortless ensembles make for the best stylish outfits to get you through the unpredictable weather in the spring.
Knit two piece set and knit dress outfits are a mega trend for spring that have been littering the runways, street style and social media for the past several weeks. If you’ve been holding off on this spring fashion trend, now is the time to loose your apprehensions.
Looking for some outfit Inso? Here are some of the best outfit ideas for styling your knit dresses and sets from now through spring.
Comfy and sexy – knit sweater and skirt set with utility boots
Want to start wearing them now? Pair your knit set or knit dress with utility boots to add an extra layer of protection through spring rains and chilly nights.
Shop the look:
image cred: PINTEREST
Sleek preppy perfection – the polo knit dress with statement accessories
The polo knit dress is a great one-piece outfit that you can wear now through spring. Layer on the luxe accessories to dress up the look.
Cozy outdoor layers – knit set with a beanie and sneaks
Still a little chilly where you’re at? Pair your knit set with a beanie and sneakers for chilly days. Shed the hat and swap your sneakers for sandals when it starts to warm up.
Preppy daytime casuals – chunky knit set and winter boots outfit
Running errands in early mornings? Grab your java in a knit set and throw on some winter boots to stay cozy head to toe, while exceeding effortless sophisticated style.
I admit I was skeptical. The beauty industry is flooded with “innovative” brands – very few of which are truly doing something unique or worth mentioning.
After trying the minimally packaged beauty brand for myself, I was immediately inspired to write a review of the BLAQ Activated Charcoal Face Mask.
image cred: BLAQ
Here’s what really made the BLAQ face mask stand out:
The packaging is sleek and minimal – it garnered my immediate interest
Their products are made with charcoal – a more natural way to detoxify the skin
The mask is really, really grippy – think of it like a nose strip, but for your whole face. Hello clean pores.
It’s weirdly sexy – instead of the face of horror, my husband reacted with surprise intrigue… “it’s like an all over latex thing”
A week later, my skin still feels amazing – like notably, butter smooth. And my pores seem nearly invisible since my mask treatment.
How I discovered BLAQ beauty products
Here’s how it all started. Last week, I was introduced to BLAQ beauty through an Instagram campaign in which I would take part of “FEELING 22”… sharing inspiration for living your best life in 2022.
Ever looking for ways to indulge in luxury from home, I was intrigued by their story and began testing the products.
After a day spent “living my best life”, I ended the night with some me time, indulging in the BLAQ Activated Charcoal Face Mask. Disregarding instructions after application – I quickly realized that was a mistake. (This stuff is seriously sticky – more on that later).
BLAQ peel off face mask review
Not your average creme mask, the BLAQ charcoal mask dries like a thin layer of grippy latex over your skin. Think of it like a nose strip, but for your whole face.
I have fairly clear skin naturally, but whatever residue I had lurking in my skin was instantly removed. And I mean everything. Unwanted peach fuzz, blackheads and impurities – my skin was flawless and glowing after use. I admit removing the peel stung a little, like pulling off a bandaid… (If I had a lurking mustache before use, I certainly didn’t have it afterwards.)
successfully peeled off the whole mask in one sheet
The clean and clear pores and flawless skin was 100% worth it.
I quickly discovered the importance of avoiding areas like the hairline and eyebrows. Word of advise, don’t try to peel if you make a mistake. You might loose a brow. This stuff has a powerful grip.
Good news is, if you accidentally went over, you can peel everything but your “mistake” areas, then dampen with warm water and soften the mask back to liquid form if you make an amateur move like myself.
How to apply the BLAQ face mask
To use, apply to clean skin (carefully avoiding eyebrows and hairline) and allow the mask to dry for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know when the mask is ready to remove as it will be tight, and dry to the touch. While paper thin, it has enough viscosity to be gently peeled off in a single pice. Peel slowly, and in an upward direction. Reveal nothing but pure flawless skin underneath.
Where to shop some BLAQ charcoal goodness for yourself
Want to give it a try? The BLAQ facemask was the best I’ve tried, and they offer a tight collection of beauty and oral care items – all infused with powerful detoxifying charcoal. You can shop some of their signature items at Revolve including the BLAQ face mask and whitening wand.
image cred: BLAQ
Side note, I also tried the BLAQ Hyaluronic Acid Eye Mask. Too soon to tell results, but the cool gel pads felt amazing after a long day.
While I partnered with BLAQ for the FEELING 22 campaign, this BLAQ face mask review is unsponsored, uncensored and unprompted. Just a product I plan on continuing to incorporate into my little slice of heaven I like to call, a Day in my Dreams. Thanks for reading. xoxo
Planning on seaside travel this summer? Endless horizons, sun kissed beaches and salty spray await. Escape on a much needed getaway and create a luxurious experience of your own design in the Tory Burch SS22 collection – vacation style.
I’ll be indulging in three upcoming seaside escapes from south Florida to the Outer Banks. Wardrobe planning has already begun to take form in this chic summer resort wear wishlist from the Tory Burch SS22 collection with several selects for vacation outfits.
Summer vacation isn’t just about your destination…
It’s a mindset.. and escape, and experience we create for ourselves. After an onset of chaos, we all deserve to enjoy a bit of luxury from head to toes in the sand.
From luxury swimwear to gold accessories, woven handbags and subtle prints in toffee hues, Tory Burch has released a summertime assortment that embodies all we crave in summer style.
Here are a few of my favorites from the SS22 Tory Burch collection that emit an especially beachy vibe with a chic assortment of minimalist essentials and bespoke details that will elevate any summer vacation style.
The white cotton poplin dress
A white cotton poplin dress is an essential for seaside escapes. This draped a-line dress is detailed with summery silk chiffon fringe, and layers perfectly over luxury swimwear while providing an airy layer of protection from the afternoon sun. Stash your seashell collection in the ever coveted dress pockets.
Reversible luxury oversized beach towel
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of being wrapped in a perfectly oversized beach towel just warmed from the sun. This T-tile beach towel is made with think, soft brushed cotton and features wanderlust fringe and a tasteful logo print. It’s also reversible, so you get to indulge in twice the vibe. My favorite hue: this chocolate brown can flip to decadent cream.
Statement gold link choker
Speaking of decadence, what is luxury beach style without some goddess worthy accessories. This chain statement short necklace sits just above the collar bone. The style is bold and exotic, designed with molten metal double T’s that give the piece a sort of ancient royal air.
The waterproof chunky slide
A grab one should never miss is comfy footwear equipped for easy access to poolside and beach style. These French pearl shower slides are “light as air”, and the perfect accompaniment to your daytime lounging with just enough volume in their modern silhouette.
The throw-all canvas tote
Just enough room for sunnies, books, and beachside refreshments – this canvas tote features toffee leather details that drip of chic, beach style sophistication.
Gold chain link bracelet
Stacked or bold enough to stand on its own, this gold chain link bracelet with double T’s charms is a piece that will take your summer style from tasteful to wow. I can almost hear the faint jingle across my wrists already.
Soft new ivory bikini with gold embellishments
The Miller halter bikini top and hipster is the sophisticated way to do modern swimwear. The perfect chalky tone of ivory, this bikini is a richer rendition of the white bikini with subtle gold embellishments that finish the look in exquisite detail.
Dark rust beach dress
This silhouette was designed for warm days and getaways. The dark rust beach dress is an essential from the Tory Burch SS22 collection. The relaxed structure features soft gathers and pleating making it an airy layer over beachwear or for your daytime excursions. It has pockets, and you may just start to feel like one of the natives with the rope belt and seashell tassels that exude an especially crafted vibe.
Chocolate tie dye crop top
If you’re looking for a casual beachside cami, wish granted. This seamless long line bralette features light support that conforms perfectly to your body, and goes great with a silk maxi or paired with your cut-off beach shorts.
This summer’s statement sunnies
I feel like owning summer just looking at these sunnies. The bold geometric shape and ivory stripes are boss-mode and seaside approved.
The versatile silk scarf
Hair, neck, top or bag – a silk scarf is a must-have for summer beach style. You can wear it so many ways, and it’s easy to throw in your bag for a quick look transition. This double sided cavalier silk square features a decadent palette of cream and toffee with preppy details like its Double T center and galloping horse prints.
Ivory and gold hair barrette
Sweep back your beach strands in pure elegance with the Kira small barrette in gold and ivory. The sleek design truly speaks for itself.
Striped knit sweater
Nothing says seaside quite like a cozy, oversized stripped sweater. This merino stripped logo sweater is a sporty classic with a rich texture and Tory Burch heart motif that screams romantic moonlit beach escapades.
Dainty gold chain necklace
For days you want to fade into the sunset, this delicate chain necklace with tiny carved double T’s is chic solo or layered with longer pieces. It has that wanderlust aura we crave at the first sight of salt and sand.
Daytime resort wear slides
Daytime excursion style would not be complete without a pair of Tory Burch sandals. The Bombé miller slide is the perfect one-shoe grab for this season’s midi dresses and summer skirts.
The black string bikini, but better
No sophisticated women would pack a beach bag without a staple black banking. What sold me on this style – the alternate pearl and gold double T string charms on the bikini top. Already pictured at the nape of my neck, seaside in sight. Pair with the solid string bikini bottom.
Casual fit wide leg pant
Looking for modern ways to execute bikini covers? Pair this wide leg trouser with the black string bikini that screams effortless sophistication. Plus, you’ll be able to cycle them into your wardrobe all year long.
The basket bag
Another perfect handbag for beach essentials, this woven satchel is actually crafted with Napa leather and suede, hand crafted rattan style. Shake out the sand, and take it for a night out on the town.
Horn drop earrings
Adorn your ears in these decadent horn drop earrings. Wanderlust style at its finest, they’re the boho accessory you probably can’t live without, complete with ancient charm and devilishly sophisticated details.
Smocked floral print beach dress
One can’t properly curate a summer beach style wishlist without including a floral print dress. This smock features a relaxed fit perfect for over swimwear or on its own, exuding femininity from its core with a delicate tie and gathered scoop neck.
Double rattan handbag
For boardwalk shopping and beachside dining, the Lee Radziwill double bag is the perfect accessory. Intricately woven by hand, this bag features Tory Burch’s signature lock-and-key hardware with double layers made to wear relaxed and open or secured.
Tory midi tunic
For breakfasts on the balcony, embrace simplicity and relaxation in the Tory midi tunic. A signature Tory Burch silhouette, you’ll enjoy sipping mimosas and drip java while breathing in your vacation zen in this mid-length tunic trimmed with herringbone and tassel details.
Simple platform thongs
Simple platform thongs are an essential for beach and summer style. This pair features just enough volume with its tonal platform. The minimalist upper is simple enough to make a statement, without trying.
Striped asymmetrical bikini
Last but not least, if you’re looking to mix-up your swimwear this summer, try an asymmetrical design like this printed one-shoulder bikini top and bottom. Designed with rich fabrics sourced from Italy, it’s a sophisticated design straight from yacht club.
Craving the beach yet? Drool over more chic summer resort wear from the Tory Burch SS22 collection. I know I will be. And satisfy your cravings for sunshine by planning a truly exquisite summer experience in the luxury getaway style you deserve.
Looking for a steal? Shop the Tory Burch Private Sale 2/23-2/27 for special offers that happen only twice a year. Included in the exclusive offer – handbags, shoes, clothing, accessories and more. I hear the stock is limited, so grab the best before they’re gone!
In accordance with the FTC regulations for Influencers, this post is in collaboration with Shoplooks. All thoughts, comments and musings are made of my own opinion and honest, personal experience with the products reviewed or mentioned. I hope you’ve found this post informational and inspiring!
An inbox full of fashion newsletters, runway updates, trend magazines and reports – and don’t even get me started on scrolling for hours through covet-worthy insta posts. It’s easy to get lost in the world of fashion.
We are a culture of excess, and access to it all. Working in fashion and managing a side hustle fashion blog keeps me brow-deep in all things fashion. And studying all of the world’s most tantalizing trends can sometimes make it difficult draw the line between what we love, and what’s truly “us”.
If your wardrobe hasn’t felt like you lately, maybe it’s time for a self check.
It’s important to realize you can appreciate all kinds of fashion, without feeling like you need to jump on board with every single trend. If you’re trying to reduce clutter and maintain a more minimalistic wardrobe, perhaps it’s time for some self diagnostics before shopping.
Pre-shopping self(help) checklist:
Does this piece expresssomething about me?
Is this something I would feel confident wearing?
Do I have other items in my wardrobe I could wear with it?
Do I go places where this outfit would be appropriate?
Would I feel like myself in this piece?
If you said no to one or more of the above, you may have a fashion fever. Side effects include overspending and a closet full of nothing to wear.
Before you shop, remember to self check, remember who you are, and maintain a wardrobe that’s truly you.
When you have built a selection of pieces that truly embody who you are, fashion suddenly becomes effortless, as you can quickly style countless looks from a wardrobe you’ve carefully curated to suit your personality.
Now all that’s left to decide, is what’s today’s vibe.
For me, a checkered shacket and leather leggings suited the mood.
As the weather gets cold, I default to pieces that allow me to take a bit of home-comfort out with me. That means all things oversized and loungewear that can double as day wear. The gold accessories help to sell the look as more conventional casual wear rather than straight lounge.
The checkered shacket is an Alexander Wang dupe I’ve cycled into my outfits a few times as a layering piece that aligns with the season’s utility trends. Leather leggings are a staple, and this cropped pair is one just about every one of my must-have lists.
A little athleisure twist with the sneaks and a baseball cap made the look feel a bit more sporty and fresh.
A nod to athleisure casual wear, a touch of edge with leather leggings, gold hardware and oversized menswear? Yeah, sounds like me. Feels good too. You’ll be spotting this look in my weekday roundup of office wear. Self check diagnostics – checks out.
Repeatedly the fashion industry will tell the story of how trends come in and out of fashion.
The perpetual crashing waves of trends that hit consumers and sky-rocket the value of different products. So often, when a trend crashes upon us all again we forget the past. We forget where the look originated from and just how long it has been around. However, as someone who adores history in all forms, obsessing over the past of these summer trends came easily to me.
September fashion week’s trends for spring proclaimed many maximalist looks to be particularly chic, but the most relaxed looks that were coming to us were the ones steeped in the ultimate amount history.
From trench coats to plaids the runways weren’t just filled with our new favorite looks but also our history from long ago.
Here’s a rundown of a few of the most modern trends with an iconic classic past.
#1 Trench coats
There is little room to doubt that trench coats have a classic past, from the name itself to the iconic use of them by Hollywood starlet, the ease and sophistication of the coat can never be disputed.
The upcoming spring trend of deconstructed trench coats has hit a particular high with Thebe Magugu and Balenciaga taking the lead and creating a new chapter to the history of the trench coat.
With ties often traced back to classic English brands of Burberry and Aquascutum in the early 1900s (just before the first world war that truly allowed trench coats to break into their own) the coat is often seen as a tangible piece of the past.
The story, however, is much more fascinating with a Scottish inventor and British inventor (Charles Macintosh and Thomas Hancock) inventing the original waterproof material of the coat in the 1820s.
The coat eventually did become highly popular during the first world war as it became both a sign of patriotism and status for the British Army officers that were able to afford the extra layer. Later it would transfer to a simple elegance with Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn often wearing the minimal and sophisticated coat. So while a more punk aspect of the coat is more popular this season than a classic trench, if you happen to own this stylish basic you will certainly have a 2022 spring look to be excited about.
Loafers have been the ultimate non-gendered shoe since the start of their creation.
Created in 1936 as a men’s shoe at Bass Weejun, the clean-cut shoe, clearly born from oxfords, didn’t stay within the designer’s gender roles as many women began snatching up the shoes as well. A few years later a female version was created and the shoe became a staple for both the prep look and relaxed style with suits. By 1953 the Gucci family decided it was time to introduce their own loafer look with the Gucci Loafer. Immediately taking off the high-end shoe reached a cult classic status. With even the then Canadian Prime Minister coming under fire for purchasing too many pairs of the designer loafers.
Today many designers and design off-shoots have their own take on loafers. Most popularly, it seems that heeled loafers are the main look for spring/summer 2022.
#3 Preppy plaid
Next to fringe, plaid is easily one of the most classic trends that continues to pop up on the runways every few seasons.
Primarily noted as a Scottish clan’s crest, each style of plaid tells its own history. Balmoral plaid, for instance, was designed in 1853 by Prince Albert. Royal Stewart, the plaid most often recognized during the London grunge era of the 1990s, was the plaid that is tied to the house of Stewart (a royal family) and dates back to the 1300s. The twisting history of many different plaids proves that it simply isn’t just a cross-hatching weave of colors on a soft fabric but rather a historical record that ties generations long-forgotten together.
So as plaids of all styles come together in the spring and summer collections for this coming year, researching the exact type of plaid might be a fun little project for a lazy Sunday afternoon.
#4 Academic apparel
Perhaps it was the lack of school during 2020, or maybe it was simply the need to romanticize going to school at all but academic fashion (and dark academia in particular) has proven to be highly popular for the upcoming season.
Mainly the style now has come in the form of uniform styles from brands such as Miu Miu, Dior, Lacoste, and Raf Simons but the stylish look isn’t new.
Academic style originally started in the 1910s, but only gained popularity in the ‘40s with the rise of ‘Ivy Style’. This look often was created with loafers, tweed suits, and tennis skirts. As the ‘60s rolled in many aesthetics took hold of the masses (mainly mod and ‘flower power’ looks) beatnik poetry and philosophers also had a heavy influence on fashion.
With them, black became the only necessary color, turtle necks mandatory, and anti-fashion a true force in the industry.
School-chic fashion had a few years of rest after this era and only had a minor bump in popularity during 1992 when Donna Tartt published The Secret History, a novel that is now a cult classic for all people who adore dark academia. However, the aesthetic- and in turn fashion- grew to be more popular during 2014 and 2015 with Tumblr.
This subculture has ebbed and flowed in interest over the last few years but with TikTok, it’s definitely on the rise and is now reaching runways once more.
#5 Fringe
If I had to pick the history of any fashion trend for this upcoming season it would be fringe.
The fine tassels have been seen on statues in Mesopotamia (present-day Iraq) that date back to 3000 B.C, Native Americans often used leathers and suede to create fringe on their garments and in the 1920s the extra flair became synonymous with flappers.
Today the look is often used for brands that seek the bohemian style look, however it wasn’t always seen as a detail that was best suited for the free-seeking flower child.
During the Golden Age of Fringe (otherwise known as the 1920s) the addition of flying fringe noted a trendy, fun-loving woman. In the ‘50s fringe was a fashion trend for those that were rebellious, letting the leather fly behind them on their motorcycles. So while it comes in and out of fashion and may not be entirely minimalistic, it certainly is fun.
Interesting to see just how much fashion has changed… and how much it hasn’t. Isn’t it?
