Be it social conditioning or simple repetition, in the new year I can get lost in thoughts of what’s new, what’s over, and what will stay the same. I try not to fall into the full-on sure to set oneself up for failure, “New year, new me,” mantra, but I’m likely splitting hairs. All that to say, come the new year I pose the following question to myself: what is new in the world of fashion in 2023? 

Yes, it’s that time of year when many people in my life ask for free advice on fashion and style. #EntrepreneurProblems. The question I frequently get asked when the seasons change – or in Calgary’s case, just the dates on the calendar – is what to purchase for spring to keep on trend. Cue the tweeting birds, luscious foliage, and the buzzing bees. Or sloppy snow storm.

Fuck trends. That’s my report. Okay, wait a minute. Taking a step back, no I’m not really telling you to stop enjoying looking what’s new out there. I’m not advocating that you stop shopping or caring about how you look. No, no, no.What I am advocating is getting off a crazy train that is fuelled solely by manic, toxic trend coal.

Years ago I was asked, “How do you know when a trend is too saturated?” Translation: when is a trend “over?” I replied quite simply, “When everyone else is into it.” While I’m not typically a trend chaser, I prefer to wear what you love, regardless of trends, but I am a sucker for one: fruit trends. This year, it is undeniably the pineapple.

Last week I advised what I would be watching for at this September’s Ready-to-Wear New York Fashion Week (NYFW). I must say, after reviewing over 100 presentations I am underwhelmed. In the pursuit of newness, I admittedly may misinterpret solid showings for, “been there, done that” lacklustre.