Fashion ‘Crimes’: How Criminal Are You?
Words by Sophie Freckingham
Eds. Mistral Zerbi
It’s clear that liking fashion and being fashionable comes with a whole set of rules, some that are stricter than others and some that should supposedly never be broken if you ever want to be considered a fashionista. However, since these ‘crimes’ seem to fluctuate just as trends do, maybe they should be considered an anti-fashion trend rather than a crime.
A fashion crime that has started to be considered acceptable is wearing black and navy together. Once recognised as one of the worst fashion ‘crimes’ in the book, it is now being deemed as one of the chicest colour palettes for an outfit. For so long, the colours were seen to clash with each other. However, black and navy are now being perceived as neutral. We can see this in the rise of long navy trench coats and short navy woollen jackets, which are becoming a wardrobe staple and can match any outfit, no matter the colour palette.
Another colour clashing ‘crime’ that has been loved and hated over the years is the combination of red and pink. Some say there has never been a better colour combo, others believe this combination should be reserved for Valentine’s Day only. Red and pink have been working their way back into our wardrobes for the last couple of years. The combination can be seen in many fashion items, from trainers to knitted jumpers and bags. Red and pink are here to stay – this time, we are seeing the colours together in many more timeless patterns, such as gingham.
The final fashion ‘crime’ may be one of the most controversial of all time – it can be recognised as a fashion choice for convenience rather than for its stylistic value. This ‘crime’ is, of course, socks and sandals. It’s a debate as old as time whether it is acceptable to wear socks and sandals, a choice that can divide nations. Most choose to wear them out of comfort or for practicality, which should not be seen as a crime. Those who embrace them as a fashion statement will most likely remain in the minority for now - personally, I believe this look belongs to one group: granddads.
The fashion ‘crimes’ currently seen as acceptable correlate very closely with the trends and items of clothing currently in fashion. It’s very interesting to see how attitudes towards certain items change over time. I wonder what will be the next fashion ‘crime’ that becomes acceptable. Let's hope it’s not skirts with leggings.