The fashion industry is constantly changing. And many will agree that 2019 was yet another fashionable year, with glamour and bold style statements galore. Although not everyone can afford buying clothes from famous designers, if you know what items are preferred and how to match them, then you can easily recreate expensive outfits, fashionistas say. As we anticipate what 2020 will bring regarding fashion, we highlight some of the hottest trends of 2019. Snake print Animal prints have been a tried-and-true favourite style for decades. The year saw plenty of animal prints, but none more than the snake print. From snake belts, snake print clothes and even snake print shoes, the print has been everywhere this season, acting as a neutral for women’s closets, elevating anything to make it look more elegant. Pleated skirt and dress Like 2018, 2019 girls proved that it’s not all about body hugging clothes. The pleated skirt with its longer length and cinched waist flatters all figures, creating a feminine silhouette. Styled with sneakers, stilettos or strappy sandals, pleated skirts came to conquer. Biker shorts Stretchy sport shorts are the latest item of athletic apparel to become an everyday wardrobe basic, although this time around, it has nothing to do with exercise. For a garment so simple and, at its core, sporty, it’s surprisingly versatile. In 2019, fashionistas paired the bike shorts with everything from sneakers and hoodies to polished blazers and heels that all offered a look that is both striking and chic. Of course, while it may not be appropriate for either the office, the outfit is perfect for street style and we could see more of it in 2020. Statement sneakers The world of trainers experienced a turnaround in 2019 as sneakers were paired with any cloth wearable. The comfort and stylishness it gave made these statement sneakers all the more desirable. From bright, bold, statement-making ‘80s-inspired styles to sleek, chunky and elevated platforms, there’s no doubt that these will brighten up your outfit. Oversized jackets and blazers This ‘90s-inspired style made a fierce comeback last year in the form of cropped oversized jean jackets and bulky men’s denim jackets reimagined for women. One other clear trend that stood out on the streets is, the oversized blazer. The best thing about this blazer is its wardrobe versatility and an everyday appeal. With its oversized cut and a nonchalant attitude, they can be worn as part of a suit with matching trousers, and also look just as good styled with ripped denim jeans and sneakers, for a business-casual look, defying the popular belief that blazers have to be formal or uptight. Simple to wear and, the blazer was an easy, everyday appeal. Oversized belt buckle These vintage oversized belt buckles made a comeback in 2018 and stayed throughout 2019. Paired with girlfriend jeans and boots, or dress it up with some high-waist denim and a bodysuit, the looks are endless. Women’s suit Women’s suit made a major statement this year. Also called the power suit, it came with versatility from the 80s-inspired check blazer, an ultra-feminine pantsuit, a mini skirt suit to a short suit, there was a take on the look for everywoman. It also practically provided a welcome alternative to the evening dress, as it could be worn to parties. Mom jeans Known for their high waistband and loose fit these jeans have for many years made a resurgence as a fashion choice. The mom jean style can be worn in many different ways, whether paired with a coordinating denim jacket, a comfy sweater, or a tucked-in blouse and paired with all kinds of shoes. This timeless look will still be around for some time. Fanny pack Often attached with a plastic clip, a belt-like fastener, or chain, the fanny pack had some earlier predecessors. It was a commonplace in the ‘80s and ‘90s as a useful bag for skiers and athletes. The style in all forms and sizes trended so much this year and it appears to be in fashion scene for some time now. For a more modern look, many celebrities and street style trendsetters have been spotted wearing the waistband bag around their shoulders, which makes it more like a traditional purse but also made more functional by wearing it as a belt. Imigongo This ancient unique form of Rwandan art, made a comeback a few years ago and is only growing in popularity. Imigongo was spotted on most made in Rwanda attires, both formal and casual and worn to every function. The design gives clothes a classy and flawless touch of elegance which is why it is on the rise in Rwanda. Strappy shoes Whether you call them floss shoes, naked shoes, or strappy shoes, this footwear that comes in heels and sandals has been around for years, but there’s a sleeker look that took the fashion world by storm in 2019. They are arguably the leading sandal trend of the year and their timeless look will keep them around for some time. Chunky jewellery Last year, we saw more and more jewellery that’s colourful, sparkly, and downright statement-making, putting an end to the dainty, barely there pieces that ruled in the past fashion seasons. The trend even saw our own K’ Tsobe jewels grace runways with this fresh jewellery trend, adding a blend of brass, lava stone and beads.
