A sneak preview of our streets in 2019

When Michelle Obama stepped out in Balenciaga boots, the fashion world was elated. And many fashion enthusiasts wondered if the shimmery gold thigh boots would make it to 2019 fashion trends.

As it seems though, the fashion world is leaning more on high heeled boots but nothing past the knees. Other shoe trends that could make it in 2019 fashion scene include animal prints and flip flops.

In Kenya, most people are moving away from most of the 2018 fashion trends such as cold shoulders, exaggerated sleeves and dungaree jeans and oh, chokers!

Here are some of the 2019 fashion trends to watch out for:

PALAZZO PANTS

If you are a fashionista and don’t have this in your wardrobe, you are missing out! Palazzo pants are loosely cut, making it comfortable enough to swirl around as you walk. They are available in different patterns and colours. Also, you can rock them as both official or casual wear.

SIDE SLIT MAXI ANKARA

From Kim Kardashian to Rihanna, the African wax print is a fashion trend that even Hollywood celebrities cannot ignore.

Over the years, Ankara has been a representation of “what’s African” in many runways. It has evolved over the years and every year, there is a new way to wear them.

Towards the end of 2018, the maxi design with a side slit that reveals part of the thighs was birthed. It’s a perfect casual wear for that sunny day when attending a wedding or a party.

ARTIFICIAL LOCS BRAIDING

Dear Kenyan men, when you meet her today in her natural hair and the following morning, she is in dreadlocks, don’t be astounded. This is one of the hairstyles trending.

Loved by many because they are sleek, easy to style and manage, artificial locs are gradually becoming a favourite to people who want to experiment with their hair or don’t want to keep making trips to the salon after every month.

With proper styling and monthly retouches, you can have them for up to six months.

NO “MAKE-UP” MAKE-UP

Do you wish to apply make-up yet look like one who hasn’t? This is gradually becoming a fashion trend as people ditch winged liners, bright eyeshadow, bright lipstick and full coverage foundation. In the make-up scene, it’s referred to as nude make-up.

Achieving the ‘barely there look’ involves using a light foundation and setting the make-up with light powder. Also, nude eyeshadow and nude lipstick.

CROSSBODY BAGS

Men are finally embracing the idea of carrying bags around and while they still won’t do handbags, cross body bags are becoming a hit, especially among artistes. The trend is gradually being accepted even by professionals and it’s definitely a trend to look out for in 2019.