The New Year is upon is and it’s time to ditch the doom and gloom of 2016 – both spiritually and sartorially! While the past few months saw us armour up against the cold sense of dread and foreboding that seemed to accompany much of last year, it’s time to let our guard down and be what we want to see in the world. So we’re ditching the military coats, the puffed-up bomber jackets and the gothic gloom, and embracing the sense of innocence, hope and new beginnings that come with a new year.
As we move into January and February, pink makes its return to the catwalks, acting as the perfect antidote to the seasonal ennui. From blush rose to bright magenta, all hues are welcome, though bubblegum pink is tipped to become a favourite, with its air of teenage whimsy. Some designers went traditional, from Prada’s pretty in pink gowns, to Dolce & Gabbana’s all-over sequins look. Jil Sander’s went a bit more futuristic in her metallic lame dresses, while Gucci combined My Little Pony with Cruella DeVille in their long fur coats in bubblegum hues. Alexander McQueen, meanwhile, playfully combined pink ruffly dresses with sharp black corsets, to show the edge one can bring to a usually soft trend.
While traditionally seen as a fabulously feminine colour, Comme de Garcons gave its pink garments a modern, androgynous twist, using shiny vinyl fabrics and masculine tailoring to add a gender-traversing edge to its baby pinks. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Chanel went for classic sophisticated femininity, pairing pink tweeds with strands of pearls for a prim and proper presentation.
If you want to fully commit to the trend, look for elaborately feminine gowns with floral patterns or Victorian silhouettes to highlight the sweetness of the colour. Soft, balletic hues are also in fashion, and with that comes the classic tutu and ballet pump. Contrast styles by adding a sharp blazer to a flowy tutu skirt. Or if you’re still in party mode, go all out with some flashy sequins and bling. Pink sparkly playsuits can be dressed up or down, while a shiny pink blazer looks incredible over skinny jeans and a plain white vest. Or if you want to inject just a hint of pink, look for shoes and bags to add a splash of perfection to your existing wardrobe – and you’re already set for Valentine’s Day!