CHIC LOOK Pastel colours and headscarves are among the hot trends this summer.
What are we all wearing post lockdown
Fashion
Maggie Gibbons
As I write this we are nearly out of the woods. The staged easing of restrictions has begun in earnest, and we’re finally looking forward to getting back some kind of normality … whatever that may be.
Imagine your first night out in a restaurant with friends or significant other. Will you think long and hard about what to wear, then finally decide to glammed up to the hilt? Or have the leggings and elasticated waists spoiled you to the extent that dressing up is causing you anxiety?
All we did for the past year was walk, cycle and maybe swim, so the uniform for most of us became the baggy sweatpants and leggings. The weather is so changeable, which doesn’t help either. The few fine days we got recently had everyone in good humour, so let’s hope it’s a good summer. That, at least, will encourage us to fire up the barbecue, wear the ‘going out clothes’, and dress up a bit. Maybe even start wearing your jewellery again. I haven’t even put on a pair of earrings in the last year.
Having said that, the sale and popularity of loungewear has rocketed. The fashion catwalks all displayed hoodies, pyjamas, trainers, and every other kind of casual wear. This looks to be the way the fashion industry is heading, for the rest of this year anyway. Comfort is key remains the mantra! As for the high heels, now I reckon this will be tough style to negotiate after a year of flats. It may well become a case of ‘car to bar’!
Clothes that make you feel happy, raise your spirits. Nobody seems to know for sure whether they’ll make it to the sun or not this year. The staycation business will thrive, provided we’re not ripped off! Some of the hotel prices are outrageous, so shop around as there are some really great bargains to be had.
Get a few key pieces for the months ahead. If you’re suffering from a touch of wardrobe anxiety, then welcome. You are among friends. Between putting on the few pounds, and wearing only elasticated waistbands, it can be a bit daunting to even think about dressing up.
However, some of you are looking forward to getting into all the online shopping purchases. I’m not a fan of online as I’ve made too many mistakes; somehow nothing ever looks the same when it arrives as it did on screen. It’s a mega business though so clearly plenty of you love it. I just love to feel fabrics and see colour. Isn’t it wonderful to have our local boutiques open again? Please support them as much as possible.
Spring/summer 2021 trends
- Oversized shoulder pads. Remember the ’80s? Dallas? There you go!
- Head Scarves. This trend probably came about as a result of the dreaded roots showing. That’s my guess.
- Pastel tones – greens, blues, pinks.
- Monochrome black-and-white remain a strong look.
- Camel. Classy. Watch for the camel coat later in the year.
- Maxi dress. This trend is everywhere. You will love the florals and bright prints.
- Denim cut offs. Does denim reinvent itself every season?
- Wide trousers. I mean really wide. If you wear this trend make sure the top you choose is fitted, otherwise you will look like a sack!
- Shirt Dress. Brilliant for the petite woman who feels swamped in a maxi.
- Tea dress. Think Downton Abbey fashion, this is a pretty, feminine trend.
- Bold florals in sunny shades of yellow, pink and orange.
- Yellow. Such a sunny colour. I love it. The great thing is that it looks equally good on blondes and brunettes.
Welcome back to the reopening of society – and the reopening of your wardrobe.
Keep safe and well!
Maggie Gibbons is an Image/Style Consultant based in Louisburgh. She can be contacted at living@mayonews.ie.
