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5 tropics-friendly fashion trends for 2019

by Niki Bruce

While Singapore’s tropical climate means passing on some popular fashion trends, there is still plenty that will find favour with Singapore fashionistas in 2019. Local stylist Randolph Tan, who styles Singapore band Sam Willows, tells Yahoo Lifestyle Singapore his picks from what’s been sizzling on the runways – and are perfect for the tropics.

1. Crochet

(PHOTOS: Michael Kors / Carolina Herrera / Rodarte / Oscar de la Renta)
(PHOTOS: Michael Kors / Carolina Herrera / Rodarte / Oscar de la Renta)

Crochet has gone beyond hobbyist’s creations to gain favour with stylemakers Michael Kors and Carolina Herrera, and make appearances in Rodarte’s Spring Summer 2019 collection and Oscar de la Renta’s Spring 2019 offerings. As part of an overall fashion focus on crafty and handmade fabrics, crochet can be both elegant and appropriately airy for Singapore, and is an alternative layering option to sweaters and cardigans that add “details and texture”, says Mr Tan.

2. The Little White Dress

(PHOTOS: Self-Portrait, 3.1 Philip Lim, Kate Spade, Rebecca Taylor)
(PHOTOS: Self-Portrait, 3.1 Philip Lim, Kate Spade, Rebecca Taylor)

Move over Little Black Dress, it’s time for the Little White Dress, a fresh wardobe option that is softer and cooler than it’s black counterpart, making it perfect for Singapore’s heat. It is also available in a wide range for styles, from skimpy minis to flowy maxi dresses, says Mr Tan. Designers have put forward a host of style options from streamlined to Victorian, including London-based Self-Portrait, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Kate Spade and Rebecca Taylor.

3. Patchwork

(PHOTOS: Chloé / Loewe / Missoni / Thom Browne)
(PHOTOS: Chloé / Loewe / Missoni / Thom Browne)

With the Asian affinity for colour and prints, patchwork is another fabric trend Singaporeans can get behind, especially if they love the bohemian or retro vibe. Patchwork provided a crafty twist to Chloé and Loewe’s Spring 2019 collections, and has also been favoured by both Missoni and Thom Browne. Whether patchwork denim, a weekend dress, or a colourful skirt that can be paired with various plain tops, it is an easy look to pull off – and adds more to an outfit without needing to accessorise heavily, says Mr Tan.

4. Long or Puffy Sleeves

(PHOTOS: Kate Spade / Rodarte / Erdem / Valentino)
(PHOTOS: Kate Spade / Rodarte / Erdem / Valentino)

Large, puffy sleeves have maintained a stronghold both on runways and with street style stars like Lauren Santo Domingo, Caroline Daur and US Vogue’s Chioma Nnadi for Spring 2019. They were hard to miss in collections by Kate Spade and Rodarte at the New York Fashion Week, and in Erdem and Valentino’s collections in Paris. While it might seem a bit much for Singapore, it’s great for those who prefer to show less, or you can opt for shorter puff sleeves on tops and dresses for a cheeky ’80s retro vibe, says Mr Tan.

5. Minimalist and Maximalist Nail Art

(PHOTOS: Instagram / laurenbbeauty, Instagram / betina_goldstein)
(PHOTOS: Instagram / laurenbbeauty, Instagram / betina_goldstein)

Nail art is back in vogue for 2019, with two strong and opposing trends that provide something for everyone. At one end, the maximalist look is dominated by bright colours like neon and yellow, glitter and other textured finishes, and at the other, is negative space nail art with clear bases, tiny lines and geometric shapes that create a subtler look.

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