FASHION WORLD

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Jumpsuits	Sarees	Chains	Dresses	Earings	Top-Handle Bags	Sunglasses	Bottom Wear	T-Shirts & Shirts	Jeans & Jeggings	Nightwear

Tuesday, March 21, 2023

Your Must-Have Spring Essentials, According To Fashion Insiders

Every season, a new selection of soon-to-be bestsellers hits our favorite fashion retailers. With so many spring 2023 trends and products to keep up with, it’s hard to know what to “add to cart.” In our New Arrivals series, we consult the buyers, editors, and fashion insiders at our go-to shopping destinations to find out their best bets for the season’s wardrobe essentials.

With spring officially here, there’s no better time to make room for new warm-weather styles. First up on the list of must-have trends, according to fashion experts? Utility fashion.

“Utilitarian detailing infiltrated the majority of SS23 collections with oversized pockets and cargo styles,” says Holly Tenser, buying manager for ready-to-wear at British fashion boutique Browns. Rickie De Sole, women’s fashion director at Nordstrom, agrees. “We’re loving this idea of the ‘New Uniform’ — practical functionality and relaxed tailoring combined for a polished uniform of elevated basics with subtle Y2K details,” De Sole says. “Think: great cargo pants, poplin, shirting, soft suiting, and beyond.” This also includes spring’s go-to outerwear. “The leather jacket is a perennial favorite, and for spring we love the vintage-inspired moto jackets,” says Libby Page, market director at Net-A-Porter.

Until it’s time to pull out the summer dresses, maxi skirts will be everywhere. “After seasons of minis getting more micro, hems are dropping to the floor,” says Celenie Seidel, senior womenswear lead at Farfetch. “A nice nod to 1990s minimalism, this vibe shift presents the opportunity to experiment with a fresh new styling approach for the season.”

Come warmer weather, a note of whimsy will also permeate the style front just in time for wedding season. “This season… speaks to the dreamier side of spring,” says Brigitte Chartrand, vice president of womenswear buying for SSENSE. “Luxe fabrics and textures and ornamental details deliver a more playful, non-traditional approach to eveningwear.” Of special note are sheer fabrics. “There was a big focus on skin on the runways with barely-there sheer and translucent fabrications,” says Roopal Patel, SVP, fashion director at Saks. This airiness will be reflected in colors as well. “From turquoise blues and bubblegum pinks to citron yellows, the spring season is dialing up on these playful sherbet shades,” says Caroline Maguire, Shopbop fashion director.

In terms of accessories, ballerina-style flats will continue to lead as one of the top shoe trends of 2023. “Ballet flats are a perfect transitional shoe choice as we head into the spring season,” says Marissa Galante Frank, accessories and beauty fashion director at Bloomingdale’s. “They are sophisticated enough to wear at the office and comfortable enough to wear on the weekend.” Ahead, our favorite spring pieces to add to your shopping cart now.

The Color Yellow

“From ready-to-wear to shoes and handbags, yellow was a consistent theme in Spring 2023 shows. Wear head-to-toe for an instant mood boost, or just a pop with a yellow accessory. From soft butter to a deep marigold, there is a flattering choice for everyone.” — Jodi Kahn, VP of luxury fashion at Neiman Marcus

Ballet Flats

“Ballet flats are definitely here to stay as our customers look for more dressed-up styles to complement their hybrid lifestyles. We have grown the category by 84% for SS23.” — Liane Wiggins, head of womenswear at MatchesFashion

Sheer Fashion

“What I love about the sheer dressing trend is the ability to style items in so many ways for whatever comfort level of sheer works for you. [Personally] I love a great sheer lace dress over some jeans with a fitted white tank but love all the women I see proudly rocking the look with just a bra and panty.” — Anu Narayanan, chief merchandising officer at Anthropologie

Denim Reinvented

“Denim was a major trend on the Spring/Summer runways, with a focus on head-to-toe denim looks and plays on texture and details like patchwork and rhinestones. There are so many fun and novel ways to wear denim for any and every occasion this season.” — Roopal Patel, SVP, fashion director at Saks.

White Dress

“Attention is shifting from the LBD [little black dress] to the LWD [little white dress] just in time for spring. These fresh silhouettes are perfect for any warm-weather activities, from a picnic in the park to the first family barbecue of the season.” — Caroline Maguire, fashion director at Shopbop

Utility

“We are seeing utility continue after the rise of cargo pants this fall. The trend has expanded into skirts, dresses, and outerwear, making it a great transitional trend as the weather gets warmer.” — Arielle Siboni, ready-to-wear fashion director at Bloomingdale’s.

Super XL Totes

“Using the recent FW23 shows as a trend preview, we’re due to see giant totes rise in popularity. Well-timed with the weather becoming warmer, these very accommodating styles are prepped and ready to haul beach supplies when summer hits.” — Celenie Seidel, senior womenswear lead at Farfetch

Embellishments

“Sequins, beading, and intricate needlework considered traditionally applicable for evening feel fresh and exciting for daywear come spring. Take cues from the Valentino Spring runway and pair an embellished skirt with a simple tee or button-down shirt.” — Rickie De Sole, women’s fashion director at Nordstrom

Biker Jackets

“Biker jackets are leading the new-grunge trend for spring and summer, with Courrèges, Chloé, and Gucci offering up some incredible takes on the nostalgic style.” — Holly Tenser, buying manager for ready-to-wear at Browns

Statement Workwear

“Our collective return to the office is marked by a fresh take on corporate tailoring that features timeless garments like the crisp button-up and blazer that have been reworked into unique statement pieces.” — Brigitte Chartrand, vice president of womenswear buying for SSENSE

Shield Sunglasses

“Oversized shield sunglasses were all over the Spring and Fall ’23 runways, making them the perfect new shape to invest in. Shields are functional and keep you protected from the sun while exuding an innate coolness.” — Marissa Galante Frank, accessories and beauty fashion director at Bloomingdale’s

The Color Purple

“From lavender to deep violet, purple is having a moment this spring. We saw a wide range of shades, so pair your favorite with black for maximum impact and a more transitional moment, or pair with other pastels for a softer, romantic color story.” — Jodi Kahn, VP of luxury fashion at Neiman Marcus

Midi & Maxi Skirts

“Skirts are having a moment — from trouser-inspired looks to my fave denim midi and a ’90s-bias throwback skirt — as the new seasonal must-have item. There are so many ways to wear them, from weekend casual to night-out and around the office.” — Anu Narayanan, chief merchandising officer at Anthropologie

Bubble Hem

“The bubble hem has had a resurgence this season with highlights from Khaite, Proenza Schouler, The Meaning Well, and Simone Rocha. We loved Cecilie Bahnsen’s voluminous bubble dress paired with Asics trainers, which will be launching exclusively at MatchesFashion this spring.” — Liane Wiggins, head of womenswear at MatchesFashion

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

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Monday, March 20, 2023

7 Shoe Trends To Up Your Footwear Game In 2023

If your Spring wardrobe calls for a seasonally appropriate update, the best place to start is from the bottom. Solid style choices begin with a fashionable foundation, so what better way to step into a series of fresh ensembles this year than in one of the biggest shoe trends of 2023?

Maybe you’re contemplating a pair of sneakers to kick things off but have no idea if something dad-approved, chunky, or classic white is the way to go. Perhaps you’re in need of a trusty winter boot but are unsure if it should land above, below, or right around the knee. Toiling over whether or not giant platform heels are really worth the inevitable tumble?

Ahead, we’ve got answers to all these questions and more. And while the best fashion trends will always be whichever ones are worthy of your very own style moodboard, let this be an accessory guide for what the sartorial savants are adopting this season, should you wish to follow in their footsteps.

Shoe Trend 2023: Mary-Janes

The appeal of preppy attire has yet to fade in 2023, but when it comes to the aesthetic’s favored shoe style, don’t settle for a plain old Mary Jane. The latest twist on this trend takes the classic silhouette up a notch, sometimes even literally with chunky soles and sky-high heels. Think: luxe fabrics, bold patterns, multiple straps, and pearly embellishments.

Shoe Trend 2023: Knee-High Boots

In the same way skirt hems are (somewhat) believed to rise and fall with stock prices, certain boot lengths are favored over others depending on the mood of each season. A good-looking boot never really goes out of style, but as we look ahead at the start of a new year for trends to come, our footwear preferences are following suit. Not as low as a bootie but not as tall as its over-the-knee counterpart, the knee-high boot is the perfect in-between option no matter what color, fabric, or heel you pair it with.

Shoe Trend 2023: Magenta

Pantone revealed Viva Magenta to be the official color of 2023, meaning a magical melange of crimson red, hot pink, fuchsia, raspberry, and maroon will be making its way into our closets in the form of one bright, bold hue. There’s no wrong way to wear this mood-enhancing hue, which can give everything from sneakers and flats to heels an extra punch.

Shoe Trend 2023: Fancy Flats

As much as platform soles are having a moment right now, so, too, are flats, from ballerina styles to the pointy-toed tips that were peak Y2K. But don’t confuse these flats for commuter shoes, because what they lack in height they make up for in sparkle. These are fancy flats fit for dance floors and fabulous fêtes.

Shoe Trend 2023: Moto Boot

Biker fashion is officially in thanks to motorcycle-inspired everything on the spring/summer 2023 runways. There were buckles and gloves and leather galore, with protective pants and moto jackets cementing the aesthetic as a style staple. You don’t need to be racing to appreciate what the trend can add to your winter wardrobe, and dipping your toe in with a chunky boot is a good place to start.

Shoe Trend 2023: Bow Ties

As much as we love chic suiting, this dazzling trend has nothing to do with tuxedos. Instead, think of your feet as gifts to be wrapped, your toes as tiny presents you can tie right up in a bow. That’s the signature look of up-and-coming brands like Mach & Mach, founded in 2017 by a pair of Tbilisi-based sisters on their way to having their biggest year yet.

Shoe Trend 2023: Hybrid Sneakers

What happens when you cross the always-cool sneaker silhouette with a practical, winter-proof shoe? Believe it or not, you get an ultra-trendy hybrid model that can take you from outdoor excursions to indoor reservations — no footwear change required.

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The 33 Best Sandals To Strap Onto Your Feet This Spring

The spring equinox has arrived baby, which means sandal season is going to be in full swing. While trends come and go, sandals will always be a warm-weather must-have. From strappy, barely there sandals to chunky wedges, there’s a pair for every style, outfit, and budget. Overwhelmed by all the options? We’ve consolidated several of our favorite comfortable sandal brands and styles into a best sandals guide (and included a few other trends we’re loving for our feet).

To make the list, we looked at a number of factors, including overall comfort level, trendiness, price point, and use. For instance, we love that our readers are the types to need hiking sandals in the morning and heeled wedding sandals in the evening. Or, perhaps there’s a practical need for a chic waterproof sandal that’s appropriate for both a beach day and a rainy dinner date. Maybe you’re a prudent shopper in the market for sensible (and obviously cute) orthopedic sandals or travel shoes that won’t cramp your OOTD. Whatever kind of sandal you need, the internet shall deliver.

One major thing to keep in mind is that we are talking shoes, which means that depending on the sandal, a break-in period is absolutely necessary and to be expected. But once that’s done, you’ll have that perfectly molded-to-you shoe. Ahead, our sandals guide provides you with some of the best toe-wiggling, pedicure-friendly styles.

Best Sandals For Walking

Whether you’re looking for a go-to walking shoe to help get all of your errands done or searching for the most foot-friendly option for some summer sightseeing, there are plenty of options. These options have extra sole support and thick straps to keep you feeling secure all day long. Plus, they’re beloved by those who already wear them.

Best Platform Sandals

Let’s get high — off the ground, that is. Platform sandals continue to be a favorite summer shoe style because these height-boosters are generally more comfortable than actual heels. Plus, the chunky sole can provide cushioning between you and the hard floor or sidewalk. Check out platform sandals (and flatform sandals) with thick soles made from lightweight natural cork or natural rubber.

Best Closed-Toe Sandals

One of the biggest closed-toe sandal trends is the fisherman sandal, which is ideal for anyone who wants to go a little longer between pedicures. Another classic staple in this category is huaraches, which are hand-woven braided sandals originating from Mexico. Also, consider classic espadrilles that’ll keep you covered and comfortable.

Best Slides

For the ultimate out-the-door-in-seconds shoe, it doesn’t get better than the slide. It’s such an easy and effortless silhouette that you’ll find it everywhere. Your fave activewear brand likely has its own version of the slide sandal, as does your fave shoe designer. We pulled a few unique styles that also include decent arch support, here.

Best Heeled Sandals (That Are Actually Comfortable)

Comfortable, cute heels aren’t an oxymoron — if you know what to look for. The key is finding shoes with trendy details that still keep you (relatively) close to the ground, like sandals from “comfortable shoe” brands like Camper. Prefer a chunkier step? A heeled platform clog, like this style from Boden, will give you a lift without any of the pain.

Best Cheap, Under-$15 Sandals

Sometimes we just need an unfussy pair of affordable sandals to get us through the season. Luckily, the internet has plenty to offer via fashion heavy hitters like Asos and Forever 21. At such gentle price points, you won’t be shy about wearing them to death.

Best Sandals for Hiking & Sports

Fabulous for hiking, camping, or general sporting, these strappy waterproof sandals are designed to stay secure on your feet at all times — no matter if you’re wading in a river or hitting the trails. In terms of being nature-friendly, the best outdoor sandals check all the boxes: They’re quick-dry, have grippy traction soles, and boast comfy EVA-cushioned footbeds.

Best Orthopedic Sandals

Somewhere along the way, orthopedic shoe brands like Dr. Scholl’s have become ultra-stylish and trendy. (And, no, not in an ironic way.) Depending on your foot preferences, seek out squishy EVA footbeds that can help absorb your steps. These comfort-focused brands also offer good arch and ankle support, and they are a great all-day option for travel or work.

Best Luxury Sandals

Because we love an extra moment, anytime, anywhere, we conclude this best summer sandals guide with a few luxury sandal styles that also double as statement shoes. Colorful espadrilles, thong-styled sandals, trendy puff sandals — bring ‘em all on, and step forth in confidence!

Best Wide Fit Sandals

Wide-feet shoppers know that finding a stylish brand that also offers extended-width shoes is no easy task. Fortunately, we can look to trustworthy wide-width shoe brands. Retailers like Amazon and Zappos also have God-sent search filters, so only wide and extra-wide sandals are pulled up.

Best Waterproof Sandals For The Beach Or Pool

Chances are you’ll be hitting the pool or beach before summer ends, and you’ll need waterproof sandals tasked to take you there and back. Look for PCU or a synthetic material that dries fast and won’t warp or get soggy when wet. Molded footbeds and fun patterns and designs also help these utilitarian shoes have a bit of style. For a day-to-night waterproof sandal that makes you look even more put-together, opt for a pool shoe with a slingback strap.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

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When you hear “Caribbean style” you might think of sandals, beach hats, and maxi dresses. But luxury fashion has a long history of drawing inspiration and borrowing techniques from the region and its diaspora.

Take, for example, small independent brands channeling the flags and slang of their home countries or established fashion designers that make sartorial springboards of their childhood memories, like legendary designers Oscar de la Renta and Isabel Toledo, who often cite their Caribbean home countries as reference.

But a new generation of talent is spotlighting the Caribbean landscapes and histories through clothes and accessories. And, thanks to organizations like the Council of Fashion Designers of America, which has supported emerging Caribbean-American designers through the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, and the Latin American Fashion Summit, which recently held a three-day conference, titled "Raíces" in the Dominican Republic, many of them are getting their flowers.

We rounded up some of our favorite Caribbean-owned brands and designers to celebrate their impact in the fashion space. Here are 28 labels you’ll want to know (and shop!) in 2023.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.