Sustainable Stylist, Laura Inglis, gives us an insider’s view to what’s in demand this year.
We’re two months in to 2023, and there’s a whole lot of trends to look forward to. From low key luxury to elongated silhouettes, we can most certainly rely on Sustainable Stylist, Laura Inglis (@stickler_for_style) for the lowdown on what trends to expect from fashion in 2023.
Firstly, please could you tell us a little about how you got into fashion and styling?
Fashion has always been my passion, I blame the genes. Influenced by my mum, who has impeccable taste, I’ve been putting outfits together since my childhood and the skill, I’ve developed over the years, helped me in my adult life to open some doors.
Nothing boosts my confidence more than when strangers compliment me on my outfits in the street, and when people ask me for my opinion and style advice.
You said you’ve just been on holiday – where did you visit? And what accessories were at the top of your packing list?
I went to the Maldives which is my happy place.
The laid-back atmosphere of the islands dictates the rules: easy, comfortable and functional. A handbag would look completely out of place there, but you can never go wrong with a good pair of sunglasses or four pairs in my case. Not only do they protect my eyes, but instantly elevate my looks.
They serve different purposes: my vibrant D-frames set the tone for the day, but I use oversized shades for the beach and the deck. Sports sunglasses come to hand when I run or cycle. To end the day on a chic note, I wear black cat-eye frames for the sunset walks and cocktails.
What was your all-time favourite trend of 2022?
Colour. I’ve never had more fun playing with it as I did last year. Inevitably, we are stepping away from head-to-toe vibrant looks, but a pop of colour, especially in the form of accessories, will never go out of fashion.
Now, let’s move on to 2023 – based on your own experience as a reseller, what do you think the major fashion trends of this year will be?
If one thing is for certain this year, it’s that classic style is having its major comeback in the form of the new summer black, maxi lengths and low key luxury. Easy to wear and to mix in one look, these three trends are set to deliver.
Black will elegantly update any wardrobe and will provide endless styling possibilities. Look for unusual textures, unique detailing and contemporary shapes (no frills or ‘pretty’ though) – that’s what makes this season’s black, the new black.
Elongated silhouettes will refine any daytime or night-time look. We think second skin maxi dresses and column skirts.
Low key luxury is as chic and relaxed as it is timeless and versatile (elevated denim and tailored cargo pants; trendy tank tops; crisp, oversized shirts; exquisite, minimal tailoring)
When it comes to footwear, comfort and versatility top the list. Chunky loafers, minimalist heeled sandals, ballet flats and angled toe pumps are the styles to go for. Throw in a bit of class with distinctive earrings and complete the look with a hobo bag or a tote.
And where should we look out for these?
Ironically, start with your own wardrobe. You might find fit-for-purpose items are already there! Take inspiration from the runway – luxury pieces are a perfect long-time investment. See what fashion buyers fell for. An insider tip can save you from making a pricey mistake. Check out street stylers – there is a lot to take in after fashion month!
Have you seen any pieces on BrandAlley that would fit the brief perfectly for these trends?
With classic styles being on our side, BrandAlley steps in as an attractive shopping destination offering style options that won’t break the bank, but will undoubtedly refresh your wardrobe.
Try these daywear pieces to create current looks:
Mango Black Satin Gown – £35
Missoni Black Sheer Tank Top – £71
rag & bone Black Asher Dress – £109
Hervé Léger White Sheer Wide Leg Trousers – £365
Michael Kors Black Sleek Wide Leg Trousers – £85
Charli White Tila Oversized Cotton Shirt – £39
Vince Black Tailored Wool Blend Blazer – £139
Team them with:
Kate Spade Black Gem Detail Ballerina Pump Shoes – £88
Reiss Black Cameron Chunky Leather Brogues – £69
Complete with high end vintage items to advocate circularity:
Vintage Gucci Beige Wooden Handle Hobo Bag – £225
Vintage Gucci Black Flap Shoulder Bag – £445
Vintage Chanel Gold Coco Mark Earrings – £525
Is there a way we can upcycle pieces bought last year, to fit with this year’s upcoming trends?
Yes, of course! We have moved away from the overwhelming consumerism of the past decades when a new season meant a new wardrobe. The focus now is on the existing wardrobe. I bring mine to the new season by adding a couple of on-trend pieces and I also resell a few items to keep it balanced – this is generally a more sustainable approach to fashion. I never end up with an outdated wardrobe, not to mention the spare cash I get from reselling which goes towards my new purchases.
Can you share your favourite piece on BrandAlley right now? What’s on your wishlist, trendy or classic?
I choose contemporary classic style which is both current and timeless like this leather jacket I am coveting.
Vince Black Short Leather Jacket – £345
Perfect in its minimalistic design, it comes with a twist that propels it to another level – a storm and wind flap, a detail usually attributed to trenches. Such a high quality item at this price is hard to come by, so this is at the top of my wish list.
And lastly – what piece in your wardrobe would you consider to be “timeless”, no matter what trends appear?
If I have to choose just one, it has to be a designer hobo bag. The timeless appeal of it is in its versatility, it channels day-to-night elegant luxury that goes with everything. The reselling value of such a bag will only go up with time.
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