Mariam Nihal

Saudi Gazette

Always remember, while it is great to be in touch with the latest trends, the key is knowing what works for you and sticking with it. Here are the top trends that should give you a better understanding.



Shirtdresses



Women have always had a thing for oversized t-shirts.  So we made it our thing. This summer it’s the must-have piece. Long buttoned down shirts/shirtdresses are in style. Mostly in denim or cotton, it is a mixture of effortless and chic style.



Crop it up with plaid



Polish up a pair of plaid trousers by styling them with a high-neck crop top. Isn’t that what instagram taught you? Well it’s true. Keep it classy with a monochrome top and heels.



Torn Jeans



With a crop top or cool t-shirt. Keep it classy and understated. Add a printed short t-shirt or try denim on denim. You can even style it with a crisp white blazer with accessories that pop.



Cool Shades



The flashy ones. Everyone has a pair. Try Raybans- if you do not already own a pair, go for Quay, Saint Laurent or even Gucci. If you are taking a break from the neon pairs you got for a music festival, try the alternative- the non-conformist frames. Everyone looks cooler in sunglasses.



Espadrilles



If you live in the GCC, you have most probably seen the Chanel ones everywhere. The trend for women’s espadrilles just got bigger. Yves St. Laurent introduced the espadrille wedge in the 1970’s and now in 2015, Chanel’s canvas version with the famous interlocking “C’s” made it to every fashion blogger’s dream. Now you can lace them up and get the wedges espadrilles with the ankle wraps.



Layers



We know Kanye and Kim are not the only ones who love it. But nonetheless the icons helped encourage the trend everyone is into now. Layering is in. It makes any outfit more interesting.



Kimonos/Kaftans



Are still around and thankfully so. Their versatility makes them easier to wear especially during the summer. Need a cover-up? Most GCC women love the trend and we know why. In case you are feeling too exposed, drape yourself with a kimono. Or if that is your beach outfit, keep it romantic with lace, net and intricate detailing.



Head wear



Hats are everywhere but most women love their headpieces more. Some prefer the hippie chic style with flowers and suede whereas others prefer the bejeweled line. Either way, we believe headpieces count as the crown, so just make sure you are wearing one.



Chokers



It probably started with the girls in LA but everyone you know is wearing them now. From thin strips of black stripped chokers to sturdy options fixed with geometric pendants can instantly create a look and complete your outfit. You can find them at the mall or customize your own with rich gemstones, leather or suede.



Athleisure



Revamped version of sweatpants. In a recent online makeover segment, O magazine creative director Adam Glassman praised the trend.



“They do look like a sweatpant, but they’re skinny and they’re sexy, and they’re not like that kind of shlumpy thing.” Canadian style expert Afiya Francisco said the new generation don’t want to be seen as trying too hard.



“They don’t want to be seen as uncomfortable. It’s just actually not cool to have made too much effort, and these pieces inherently do that.”