Best trends

A quick recap of 2019 from NUFS for you Take a look!

80s references

As the Fall 2019 Fashion week in Paris came to a close, Nicolas Ghesquière’s Louis Vuitton collection was a colourful symphony of 80’s patterns and tailoring, from drop hem dresses to puff sleeves, fusions of leather and tartan and a palette of pop art and punk subcultures. This homage to the era, reminiscent of the illustrative work of Antonio Lopez, was regularly referenced throughout the 2019 seasons. Louis Vuitton was one of the more blatant expressions of retrospect, alongside Gucci who took inspiration from the house's own history, referencing their popular country clubwear with tennis logo sweaters and oversized t-shirts. The combination of retro references with their current and easily recognisable aesthetic allowed the clothes to be eccentric without being garish.

Some collections opted for a more subtle nod to the era, such as Givenchy's silky suits with rounded shoulders, which provided a modern alternative to the shoulder pad, the use of neon shades at Valentino and bright colour-blocking at Issey Miyake. The fabrics, textures, patterns and cuts were far removed from the shiny, puffy prom dresses of the past, and produced silhouettes and style that could be carried into the next decade.

Whether its pouffe skirts in vibrant pink at Christian Lacroix or floral pattern jumpsuits at Isabel Marant, Balmain’s head to toe leather and denim looks with exaggerated shoulders or Alexander Wang’s micro mini’s and oversized biker jackets, the juxtaposition of old and new secures the influence of the 80s in 2019 and beyond.

Victoria Petrie

Tiny bags

Fashion trends have long been pushing the boundaries of the absurd and ridiculous, but one accessory trend of 2019 may be the most impractical yet: The very tiny, Tiny Bag. Micro bags have been around for many a fashion season, making their debut at the Fendi Spring/Summer 2015 Collection.

One particular mini wonder, however, shot to viral fame following its runway debut in Jacquemus’ Spring/Summer 2018 collection, renewing the craze for the miniature style in the form of Le Sac Chiquito mini bag. It has taken over the Internet earlier this year when Lizzo has raised the bar with what appears to be an even smaller micro-bag. The singer attended the American Music Awards on Sunday night in a striking orange ruffled dress, but it was her custom Valentino purse which stole the show.

Eva O’Connor

Lilac

Purple has long been a polarizing colour, but it's staging a triumphant comeback in all shades this season. Following 2018's colour of the year - regal and dramatic Ultra Violet, purple hit again during the fall 2019 runways. From pastel lilacs to deep violets and all that's in between.

Lilac has been associated with many things, but not for long a time has it been rendered chic. However, in a lilac-based plot twist, for spring/summer 2018 it has become the colour of the season. Pastel hues are all enjoying a newfound popularity, but none are more pervasive than lilac.

Among the designers who have shown lilac on the catwalk, was Louis Vuitton with Spring/Summer 2020 collection, Balenciaga with their incredibly bold and modern take on colour in general in Resort 2019 and Pier Moss with their heavy art influence.