Why fashion trends do matter

Fashion trends get a bad rap — so much so that many people would hardly call being labeled “trendy” a compliment. In her series on The fashion industry’s biggest secret, Sara illustrates how many fashion editors, designers, and icons don’t seem to follow trends at all — while fashion victims do.

Keeping an eye on trends isn’t a bad thing, though. In fact, smart shoppers know the value of watching trends, since their coming and going determines what’s available in stores — and what’s on sale.

Plus, the occasional dash of trends can liven up your wardrobe if you choose your items carefully and shop smart.

Here’s how.

Enjoy trends while you can

The primary reason why I follow trends is so that I can plan my fashion shopping for the season. I know what works for me, so when I see that my favorite styles are now “trendy”, I head to the stores to stock up.

Why? Because depending on the whims of the fashion industry, next season it could be hard for me to find favorites like mid-rise jeans, wide cincher belts, purple handbags, stylish hats, ballet flats, and even wrap dresses, one of my wardrobe staples.

Plus, at the height of trends, the selection is usually large enough that you can afford to be extremely picky. I could find purple shoes a year ago, but none of them were the right style for the right price. Fortunately, I had much better luck this season and found a fabulous pair!

After you’ve stocked up enough to feel comfortable, just wait until the sales! Once competing trends become popular you can bet that you’ll find plenty of those older, but still stylish trends at great discounts.

Update your wardrobe

While trends are a great way to stock up on old favorites, they’re also a good way to discover new favorites — or even get some inspiration on how to mix styles you already have. That’s why those ad-filled fashion magazines aren’t a total waste (though I still don’t pay for them).

Feel free to experiment with even the wildest trends in the privacy of a fitting room, provided that you take a good sense of humor in with you. And definitely keep an eye out for trends that work on people with a similar body type or complexion!

Of course, you still want to buy trends with discernment — especially if you’re not positive that you’ll still love them next season. Therefore, check out Sara’s four rules to enjoy fashion trends responsibly.

Remember to practice moderation, too: don’t pile on too many trends at once. If you’re looking for a cost-efficient way to update your look for the season, focus on a few trendy accessories like bags or shoes — or a trendy coat in winter.

Stay tuned!

That’s why trends matter, but how do you know how to make them work for you? Keep reading The Bargain Queens because I’ll be covering many of this season’s hot trends with real advice, for real women.