How to Stay Ahead of Fashion Trends

Fashion will never be stagnant. 

Instead, trends swiftly come and go in the world of fashion. Sure, this keeps things interesting, but it can make your life tough as an industry blogger. 

That's because you need to do more than know the trends — you have to stay ahead of them. Doing so can be a challenge. So, brush up on these seven skills, all of which will help you remain at the forefront of fashion.

1. Watch — or Attend — Fashion Week

Fashion Weeks in London, Paris, Milan and New York City introduce the world to the clothes and accessories that will be in style next season. As such, studying the runways can help clue you into upcoming trends and shop for them before Fashion Week styles hit the shelves.

You can attend Fashion Week in person. Depending on your level of popularity as a fashion blogger, you could get invited to shows for free. Or, you can buy a pass to go on your own.

If none of those options pan out, try and watch the runways online. Or, peruse galleries of models posing at the end of the catwalk. You don't have to be there in person to notice trends and patterns in all the shows. 

2. Flip Through Fashion Magazines

Another place to find the next big thing is on the pages of a fashion magazine. Editorial photoshoots often reveal upcoming trends. Plus, magazine interviews with designers will present their take on what's next. The head of a fashion house probably has a good idea, and they'll have a hand in guiding the trends, too. 

You likely know the fashion magazines you should subscribe to as an industry professional. Among the top titles are Vogue, Elle and Harper's Bazaar.

3. Study Celebrity Stylings

Instagram gives you the chance to follow just about every celebrity's day-to-day life. Follow the most fashion-forward celebs, and you will have a clear idea of what's to come, clothes-wise. 

Many famous people get fashion gifted to them from big-name brands. What they wear will be at the forefront of the industry. So, keep an eye on their stories and posts to see the exciting wardrobe items they're rocking. 

Of course, you can get similar information from red carpet and paparazzi photos, too. That way, you can have a little bit of everything — streetwear and formalwear included. 

4. Keep an Eye on Your Surroundings

Perhaps you live in a major city like New York or Los Angeles. Chances are, the very people setting fashion trends are all around you. 

So, when you're out and about, keep an eye on those around you. Make a mental note of new fashion stylings you haven't seen before. You can try similar looks and blog them. 

Even if your new ideas aren't necessarily trending items from top designers, you'll still be pushing your looks forward. Trying new things is what the industry is all about, and streetwear can be a huge inspiration. 

5. Follow Stylists on Social Media

Another way to keep tabs on trends is to know the stylists who set them. These people choose daily wardrobe and red carpet looks for celebrities. They know what's coming, trend-wise. So, following them on social media could apprise you to the same information. 

Your best bet is to follow stylists whose clients' style you admire. For instance, Karla Welch styles fashion icon Tracee Ellis Ross, while Zerina Akers dresses Beyonce and Mimi Cuttrell keeps the Hadid sisters looking fresh. 

These stylists are likely to share the looks they've pieced together for their celebrity clients. You can use such posts to help inspire your wardrobe selections. 

6. Don't Forget the Accessories

It's not just your clothes that need to stay fashion-forward. You'll have to keep tabs on accessories trends, too. That's everything from shoes to jewelry to bags to trending swimwear if summer's around the corner. In the winter, check out the swimwear that’s coming during the summer months to stay ahead.

If you're a fashion blogger on a budget, consider the allure of accessorizing wisely. You could sell some of your old jewelry pieces to fund the next season’s must-haves.

Opting for on-trend shoes and a second hand chanel purse can effortlessly elevate your style game. Integrating these accessories with the basics in your wardrobe not only adds a touch of luxury but also ensures a chic and trendy appearance, all without breaking the bank.

7. Trust Your Instinct

You're a fashion blogger for a reason. You love the industry, and you know how to dress. If you want to wear something that's a little bit out there, trust yourself. 

Eventually, style is an outward expression of your personality. Your take will be different than the next person's. So, you want to stay on trend, but you should strive to stay true to yourself. 

Stay Ahead of the Curve — in Your Way

With the above tips, you can do just that. Choose the trending pieces that speak to you and feel like your style. Your followers have come to appreciate it, after all. Your take on the trends will be valuable to them, no matter what.  So, start dressing with tomorrow's trends in mind. Your followers will appreciate you for it today.