This Will Be The Biggest Trend Of 2018

By Niamh ODonoghue
08th Nov 2017

Fashion is feeling rather nostalgic at the minute. Dior’s Maria Grazia Chiuri gave us a taste of all things Western earlier this year at her Cruise Collection in LA when she brought the fashion pack to the Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Open Space Preserve in the Santa Monica Mountains. There were animal hides galore, stiff-brimmed hats, primitive prints and appliqués, rhinestones, studded belts and tassels. Then Coach, Gucci, Ellery, Tommy Hilfiger and Versace – to name a few – followed suit at their SS18 catwalk shows, each executing this Western-inspired trend in their own unique way. It’s become clear which direction fashion is taking for the approaching seasons, and all-in-all, we’re pretty excited.

The Western trend is broken up into seven easy-to-wear pieces. There’s the neckerchief, belt buckle, cowboy boot, denim short, plaid shirt, studs, and, of course, leather. What’s great about these elements is that they can be worn on their own as subtle hints, or together for a complete Western-inspired look. So here is your helpful guide to getting ahead of the trend… partner.

The Neckerchief

Neckerchiefs are a signature of Western wear and they were hugely popular for SS17. We love them because they allow you to create a totally unique look in seconds. Why not add a cool edge to your look by knotting a mini scarf in reverse (see Self Portrait, below)? Or how about folding your scarf into a long, thin shape and double-wrapping it around the neck (see Versace, below)? We love how tying at the front or back can dramatically change the style of any outfit.

Left-right; Self Portrait, Margaret Howell, Versace. All SS18

The Buckle

No cowgirl is complete without a big and bold statement belt. If you’re accustomed to wearing black belts year-round, why not try light-coloured leather instead? We love this white leather and metal accented belt from the Nicole Miller SS18 collection. Vintage shops like The Harlequin and OmDiva in Dublin usually have a great selection of second-hand belts and buckles in need of a new home.

left-right; Versace, Redemption, Nicole Miller. All SS18

The Boot

Think pointed toes, belt buckles, suede and leather. Come 2018, there will be a huge variety of Western-inspired boot shapes to choose from, but we love these kickbacks by Redemption, (below, far right), which combine all of the above features to make the perfect boot for any show-down.

Left-right; Tommy Hilfiger, Coach, Redemption. All SS18

The Denim Short: The Low Rise Edition

While some will quiver at the prospect of low rise denim, they’re not to be feared. For a more modern look, layer yours under a lux dress or oversized shirt to add depth to your outfit (as well as covering more skin!).

Left-right; Redemption, Tommy Hilfiger. Both SS18

The Shirt

Go for eye-catching statement collars and choose suede, denim, cotton or leather finishes. With shirts, it’s all in the detailing, so take time to find the perfect button, pocket, tassel or leather patch combination. We love this Coach heavy-duty suede and leather shirt (below, far right). The leather finishes and trimming are perfectly on-point. Doesn’t it totally transform the soft slip dress underneath?

Left-right; Derek Lam, Victoria Beckham, Coach. All SS18

The Leather Jacket

The basic leather jacket has been given a new animal instinct for 2018. Choose patterned and textured leather in shades of browns and burgundy for the ultimate Western fix.