What if fashion could influence your life like a painting, book or movie? The best clothing for spring 2020 has the potential to reshape your life. Fashions for the upcoming season address climate change, up cycling and political unrest.
Climate change is dramatically changing what you wear whether you realize it or not. Clothing is becoming more “seasonless.” As I am writing this article it is seventy degrees in January. Many clothing items can now be worn all year ‘round. Joseph Ribkoff and Frank Lyman, along with many other manufacturers, have a base fabric that is perfect for our warmer fall and winters.
Trend alert – tropical prints appeared in most collections showing concern for forests, jungles and oceans.
Up cycling is the new recycling. The fashion industry, along with most consumers, is notorious for wastefulness.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average American throws away 70 pounds of clothing and other textiles each year. Up cycling repurposes items. Fashionistas love it because they feel they are getting one-of-a-kind designs. One example is using pieces of vintage designer bags, such as Louis Vuitton, and creating new items – bracelets, necklaces, watchbands, etc.
Political unrest is also on the forefront for 2020. As a result, many customers find refuge in the finer things of life.
Gerald Celente, publisher of the Trends Journal, predicts, “Elegance is the new level of high style for low times – beauty is uplifting: it’s an antidote to the chaos around us.”
He also stated, “Dressing elegantly, with style and care, need not require expensive designer brands, and it won’t be found following the latest, absurd celebrity fashions.“
“It’s time to bring forward creativity and individuality, where less is more, and better is great,” Celente concluded in the report.
Other trends I feel are important for Spring 2020:
Polka dots – Dots were all over the runways – big, little, mixed with florals, predominantly black and white. Watch out, Minnie.
All over black – Yes, I realize black is a reflection of somber times, but head-to-toe black is extremely chic, and always slimming. Need I say more?
Bermuda shorts – They are back, and not just for the golf course. Often worn as a suit, shorts are a nice alternative to a skirt or pants.
Trench coats – Spring 2020 is coming for you, James Bond. Time to invest in an updated trench coat. Look for interesting details on this classic – contrasting trim, unusual color or fabric makes everything old new again.
All over pleats – Solid color clothing looks fresh in knife pleats. Go beyond the pleated skirt, and choose tops and pants for the unexpected.
Crochet – This is not your grandmother’s crochet. A maxi dress is the item to add in crochet for now into spring.
Sunshine yellow – This is a color to add that will make you smile.
A few last thoughts: snakeskin is the new leopard print, and I did not order any bra tops or hot pants. Global warming aside, February brings many cold, grey days. Pappagallo can add some sunshine to your days with new spring arrivals from all your favorites – Lilly Pulitzer, Tyler Boe, Jude Connally, Frank Lyman, Joseph Ribkoff and Tribal.
-by Nicki Smith
About the Author: Nicki Smith has been in the fashion industry for 36 years. She is the owner of and buyer for Pappagallo, located at 2020 Scottsville Road in Bowling Green (The Pines Shopping Center, next to Chico’s).
