In fashion, take baby steps: pull off these 5 tricky trends

MANILA, Philippines – Ever had the urge to wear a certain trend but didn’t feel like you could work it?

Could cropped tops work even if one’s midsection is not perfectly flat? Are leggings only for those with slim legs? Don’t even get us started on polka dots; they are often deceptively cute but notoriously hard to pull off. 

Here are 5 trends that some of us girls shy away from, and other ways to wear them if the conventional way isn’t quite working:

1. Polka dots

Along with the resurgence of the vintage-inspired, pin-up girl looks came the return of all things polka-dotted. This classic print can either be dressed up for a vintage-glam vibe or dressed down for a girly yet casual look.

Baby steps: Ease your way in by starting small. Try using accessories first, like headbands, a scarf, or a belt with polka dots by pairing them with outfits that you are comfortable with.

Polka dots look best when paired with a classic, solid-colored piece. For example, a blue polka dotted skirt will look great with either a solid black or white top. For a safer look, pair your polka-dotted piece with pieces from the same color palette. Polka-dotted dresses also go great with solid-colored accessories.

To channel ’50s chic, keep the rest of the outfit simple: pair a polka-dotted dress with a solid cardigan and sensible heels, for example, and swipe on vampy red lipstick for a finishing touch. 

2. Cropped tops

A common misconception about cropped tops is that you would have to show a lot of skin to pull the look off. That simply isn’t true these days.

Baby steps: The trick is to go for a top that’s looser, not skintight. Find one that’s cropped somewhere slightly below the navel. It will be shorter than the usual top, but longer than the cropped tops of the ’90s. 

You’ll be free to pair those with high-waisted shorts or a pencil skirt, and you won’t have to show off much skin at all. 

If it’s a shorter cropped top, make sure to pick one with sleeves in a fabric that isn’t see-through, or the look may appear sloppier than intended. 

One more way to work that loose cropped top is to wear it over a fitted dress. That way, you can show off your shape without showing too much skin. 

3. Bold colors

Stuck in your style comfort zone of clothes mostly in black, white, and navy? Solid colors are great, but bold colors can really liven up an ensemble. 

Baby steps: If you’re unsure about wearing bright colors, just like the polka dots, begin with a small step. Work them into outfits with small accessories: perhaps a bright watch, statement earrings, or a belt. Keep the rest of the look neutral. Eventually, you’ll become more confident and willing to experiment with a bright top or bottom. 

You don’t necessarily have to go for loud colors right away; just try another color you wouldn’t usually attempt to pull off. For example, instead of the usual brown, why not try maroon, champagne, brick red, or rust? Instead of the usual navy, try clothes in teal, emerald, or cerulean. 

Try to wear colors from the same color family. If you look at the color wheel, these are the colors that sit next to each other.

Planning your outfits can also help you strategically hide problem areas. As a general rule, bright colors attract while dark colors conceal. Color-blocking is a great way to apply this tip. If you see your arms or your tummy as a problem area, wearing a black top with a hot pink skirt will draw attention to your long, shapely legs instead.

4. Stripes

Stripes are a staple for nautical looks – another trend that’s practically evergreen. Stripes, if worn properly, can actually be a lifesaver. Like color blocking, it can help you accentuate the areas you want people to focus on, making it a flattering print.

Baby steps: Though most people say that stripes can be the most unflattering print out there, you can actually make it work for you. As a general rule, horizontal stripes widen, vertical stripes lengthen. 

Girls with tiny hips can get a fuller, hourglass figure by wearing a pencil skirt with horizontal stripes. Girls with fuller hips, can wear vertical stripes to make their legs longer, making it more proportional. If vertical stripes are too obvious, you can also go for tiny horizontal stripes in a neutral color; it will have a similar effect. 

Dress your stripes down with denim or dress them up with classic pieces featuring luxe textures. 

5. Printed leggings

From aztec prints to florals and even the faces of your favorite superheroes, printed leggings are definitely a loud, attention-grabbing piece.

Baby steps: It’s best to pair leggings with a loose, solid color top and a good pair of heels.

 Vary the tone of your outfit. If your leggings’ prints are already too loud, go for a more subtle top in a neutral color with small, basic prints.

If you’re not sure about mixing prints, try mixing textures. For example, floral leggings with cozy knitwear and ballet flats make for an easy, casual ensemble. 

Remember too, that leggings should be worn with longer tops that cover the behind. To avoid wardrobe malfunctions, make sure that the material isn’t too sheer. 

Which of these trends are your favorite? Got more tips to share? Let us know in the comments section below. – Rappler.com

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