5 Must-Try Fashion Trends For 2023
A new year is the perfect time to take inventory of your wardrobe and figure out the pieces you might need to update it for the months ahead. From balletcore essentials to must-have suiting and timeless denim, here are five of our favourite runway-inspired trends to embrace this year.
Trend: Balletcore
Like so many ’90s-inspired trends, ballet flats are back in a big way this year. Designers like Simone Rocha and Molly Goddard even took the throwback footwear to the next level, pairing their flats with dreamy tulle skirts and dresses, creating a delicate, feminine and slightly frothy look that fashion enthusiasts have named balletcore.
To take the look from runway to real life, opt for flats with novelty straps and square toes and pair them with a voluminous mini skirt and a wrap top (or a sleek bodysuit!).
Wilfred
Channel the off-duty ballerina look with this faux-wrap top, available in eight colours.
Wrap top, $78, aritzia.com
Reformation
These pretty leather flats will actually stay on thanks to an elasticized strap and foot-hugging design.
Ruched ballet flat, $278, thereformation.com
Aldo
Sleek metal ornaments elevate these leather ballerina-style shoes.
Embellished flats, $80, aldoshoes.com
Trend: Bright green
One of the season’s top hues might just be the bright green that were spotted on the runways at Rejina Pyo, Michael Kors and Loewe. In shades of lime and pistachio, the not-quite-fluorescent colour was eye-catching and often worn head-to-toe.
To incorporate the colour into your wardrobe, consider an easy, one-and-done dress, or pair a piece with your existing black or white staples to add a splash of colour.
Zara
Wear this V-neck dress with knee-high boots now, and strappy sandals later.
Gathered midi dress, $40 on sale, zara.com
COS
This wool turtleneck is the perfect way to add an unexpected twist to your basics.
Wool turtleneck, $182, cos.com
Sama Rakk
These lightweight acrylic earrings are handmade in Montreal and Winnipeg.
Earrings, $45, simons.ca
Trend: Menswear-inspired suiting
Whether you’re back in the office full-time or just a few days a week, it may be time to add a stylish pantsuit into your workwear rotation. In a stylish neutral tone or in a bright colour that sparks joy, a monochrome, tailored suit looks great worn with a silk blouse, linen tee or your favourite tank top. For extra impact, pair your pantsuit with footwear in a matching hue to elongate your silhouette.
Frank and Oak
This blazer made with recycled polyester is comfortable enough for WFH days, and can be paired with any trousers you already own.
Blazer, $149, frankandoak.com
Contemporaine
Wear these stretch twill pants with the matching blazer, or with a great black top.
Wide-leg pants, $129, blazer, $149, simons.ca
Trend: Blue denim
Anything goes when it comes to denim these days, but wide-leg, mid-rise blue jeans in a medium wash will have their turn in the spotlight this year after years of light-wash jeans reigning supreme. They can be styled with a matching, loose fitting denim jacket for a high-impact combo, or paired with a white tank top or button-up shirt for a low-key, classic look.
H&M
Get nostalgic with these high-waisted jeans, which are also available in a dark grey and light blue wash.
Tapered ankle jeans, $40, hm.com
Odeyalo
Handmade in Montreal, this mid-blue denim jacket fits like a blazer. There’s even a matching denim pant if you want to go for a Canadian tuxedo look.
Denim jacket, $280, odeyaloclothing.com
Trend: Oversized bags
After years of micro, mini and nano-sized purses, bigger bags are trending, which is great news for those of us who love to lug stuff around “just in case.” Effortlessly nail the trend with a versatile oversized, semi-structured tote made from sturdy leather or canvas that can be worn multiple ways.
Topshop
Fit all your essentials—and more!—in this playful fuzzy tote.
Large checkered tote bag, $80, nordstrom.ca
M0851
This sleek made-in-Montreal leather tote features three interior pockets to help you stay organized.
Leather bag, $395, m0851.com
& Other Stories
This roomy leather bag will fit nicely under your arm, but it also comes with a leather strap for hands-free travel.
Leather tote bag, about $242, stories.com
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