The Biggest Trends That Shaped 2019

Although we cancelled the term millennial pink long ago, its 2019 predecessor looked strangely familiar. Sun-bleached shades of pink were a popular choice in all areas of our closets – from romantic puff sleeve tops to patent leather trench coats – everything looked good in this colour. But it wasn’t just pink, pistachio, lemon sorbet and lilac were also on the spectrum and we wore them head to toe.

Once rumours of a Little Women movie remake were confirmed, country checks and field florals cemented their place in our style rotation. Victorian-inspired silhouettes, like high necklines, balloon sleeves, bows and layers of ruffles became the norm and tied in perfectly with our affinity for cowboy boots, milkmaid tops and adorable basket bags.

It wasn’t all traditional ideas of romance though. Bold neon colours came back with a vengeance and we fell in love hard. Electric green and shocking pink were among our favourites and we worked them into every look we owned. Neon milkmaid tops, neon sneakers, neon bag straps, eyeliner and nails. And when blocks of bold colour weren’t enough, we ventured into psychedelic tie-dye patterns.

Neutrals, while always a favourite supporting act for prints and colour, had a solo moment in the spotlight too. Linen fabrics in earthy tones were warmly embraced and hints of safari – from animal prints to utility pockets – were added seamlessly to the mix.

From ultra-fine straps to see-through heels, the naked shoe trend was a crowd favourite for being the most versatile footwear choice that could be worn with almost anything without giving it a second thought.

Cowboy boots were a surprising comeback that we accepted with open arms. The timing couldn’t be more perfect with the release of Lil Nas X – Old Town Road ft. Billie Ray Cyrus.

Maybe not technically promoted by actual podiatrists, but the rise of the “ugly” shoe was a saving grace for our tired soles. Whoever made those comfy, chunky sneakers and adventure sandals with thick foam soles a wear-with-anything trend – we salute you.

Polarising because many Aussies consider their flip-flops a footwear staple rather than a passing trend. Either way, they’re now a fashion crowd favourite – even the heeled versions are back.

Not gonna lie, our accessory collection was all over the place. We let our nostalgia for the 90s and 00s take over and it was as if we let our younger selves run wild in a candy shop, literally. Cutesy hair clips, bandana scarves and scrunchies were bigger than the OTT earring trend from the year before. and stud and sleeper earrings made a comeback, although the look was far from minimal and was still very much a statement.

That's extra with a capital E. Tiny handbags were downsized further, almost to a point of non-existence, while shopper totes were huge in every sense of the word.

The arrival of Kangol onsite made us feel instantly cool again and paved the way for streetwear to become socially accepted everywhere. A blazer over a crop top with tailored pants, a bucket hat and heels? A Fashion Week uniform.