In a world where can trends are born in an instant and can die just as quickly, it’s little wonder that the term “anti-trend” has become so appealing. As editors, we naturally thrive on keeping up to date with the latest looks and predicting what will make our wardrobes feel current for the season ahead, but there will always be something to be said for a timeless aesthetic that transcends the ebb and flow of passing fashion moments. That’s where anti-trend outfits come in.
Anti-trend outfits offer a refreshing departure from the constant cycle of “What’s next?”. What I find most interesting is how the classic pieces that come together in an anti-trend outfit also coexist quite harmoniously with any statement, personality-flaunting items you fall for along the way. In my opinion, a well-rounded wardrobe will boast pieces from each of these categories, and by incorporating these elements into your wardrobe, you’ll have the ability to create polished looks with ease and unlock a multitude of new outfit combinations.
Whilst they can provide the perfect backdrop to bolder clothing choices, anti-trend items also work beautifully when worn together, and the next seven outfits from some of my favourite influencers are a testament to this. These looks, which come via Instagram from London, Paris, Stockholm and New York, are outfits you can throw on at whim and know you’re still going to look stylish. They all utilise basics such as jeans, shirts and simple dresses in a mostly neutral colour palette for optimum versatility.
Continue on to see the anti-trend outfits we’re keeping on standby for the weeks and months ahead.
Style Notes: Trench coats have enjoyed a surge in popularity over the past few seasons, but rest assured, styles like Michelle’s light beige iteration will never feel passé, especially when worn with black trousers and ballet flats.
Don’t expect his best-selling cover-up to stick around for long.
Yep, we’re still obsessed with the COS crossbody.
This divisive shoe always adds an interesting element to simple outfits.
Style Notes: In cities like Stockholm where Lydia Tsegay (pictured) resides, the temperature is akin to what we experience in Britain, so a knitted dress is something you can throw on when there’s a slight bite in the air. Wear it with classic accessories.
The lightweight weave stops this dress from looking too heavy.
I’m a sucker for a gold logo clasp.
The perfect heel height.
Style Notes: An anti-trend outfit doesn’t need to revolve solely around neutral colours, but it certainly makes an ensemble look more expensive if it does. Case in point: Lorna Humphrey’s chic grey and beige jacket-and-trousers pairing.
The ideal layer for the transitional months.
COS is known for creating excellent trousers, and these are no exception.
The extreme pointed toe makes these pumps look so sophisticated.
Style Notes: Outfits don’t get more anti-trend than blue jeans and a simple jersey top. Far from boring, add details such as a thick leather belt or a sleek shoulder bag to personalise your attire, just as Sylvie Mus has done here.
I’m very tempted to snap this up in both black and white.
I don’t own a belt like this, but I’d like to.
I hear great things about Abercrombie & Fitch’s denim.
Style Notes: Right now, relaxed-fit knitwear is the preferred layering choice among the fashion set, and the slouchy silhouette is ideal for dressing down evening staples. Take the mini skirt, for example—pairing it with knee-high boots and bare legs, Nnenna proves it can still feel daytime-appropriate.
A jumper you could wear almost anywhere.
& Other Stories’ styling proves this mini skirt has all-day potential.
We’re so impressed with Marks and Spencer’s boot selection this season. Case-in-point: these beautiful knee-highs.
Style Notes: A white shirt and black trousers might be reminiscent of your school uniform, but layered with more directional pieces, such as a grey racer vest, statement sunglasses and loafers, there’s absolutely nothing juvenile about this elevated get-up.
The only white shirt I’d concern myself with.
This will pair just as well with slip skirts and denim shorts as it does classic trousers and jeans.
This silhouette? Perfection.
Style Notes: Every time I open Instagram lately, someone is rocking a jumper-and-long-skirt outfit, usually with trainers. There’s something about this formula that feels elevated and effortless, but it’s understated enough to avoid going out of style.
No need to size up, this jumper already has a relaxed fit.
You’ll pull out this versatile piece every single season.
Grab them before they sell out (again).
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Next Up: The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week