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5 Fashion Trends We’ve Already Retired in 2023...and What to Wear Instead

No more oversized blazers or kooky flats

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Dasha Burobina

Outdated fashion trends are a black hole in our closets (are you really going to wear that kitschy sweater again?). So, let’s all make a clean break of those purchases and move towards some new looks in the year ahead (because there’s a lot of exciting options to look forward to). Here are five trends to retire in 2023, and five to add to your rotation instead.

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Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images, Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

OUT: Tabi Shoes / IN: Low-Heel Slingbacks

“I’ve seen lots of Tabi shoes this year, but I’m ready for things to just be normal again. I don't want toe partitions,” says associate SEO editor Marissa Wu. In that vein, these flat shoes and their super-popular ballet flat progenitors will be overtaken by low-heeled slingbacks, as recently seen during Paris fashion week and for sale from top-tier designers and high street retailers like Alohas.

Shop the trend: Franco Sarto Jacer Slingback Pump ($110; $60); Alohas Lindy Leather Pumps ($140); Prada Brushed Leather Slingback Pumps ($1,390)

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Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images

OUT: Kitschy Knits / IN: Knit Florets

We’re not going to suggest minimalism as a replacement for that impulse to jazz up your wardrobe occasionally; however, we do like the new trend of rosettes and flowers on a simpler background. Some of them are even detachable, so that years from now, you can still wear your knits without flashing back to that one season you wanted floral everything. 

Shop the trend: Kimchi Blue Blossom Cardigan ($78); J.Crew Collection Rosette Halter ($118 ); Anthropologie The Susannah 3-D Flower Cardigan Sweater ($130)

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Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images

OUT: Mini Handbags / IN: Structured Shoulder Bags 

We loved our nano-sized bags, but let’s be real, they’re highly impractical. We much prefer the size and structural lines of the roomier shoulder bags that have been coming out lately. And the horizontal orientation of the bags are incredibly useful, since items don’t disappear into the depths as they do when you’re using a tote for everything.

Shop the trend: Charles & Keith Nasrin Geometric Shoulder Bag ($105); 8 Other Reasons Pia Bag ($219); Loewe Fold Puzzle Shoulder Bag ($1,700)

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Edward Berthelot/Getty Images, Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images

OUT: Oversized Jackets / IN: Tailoring

While we appreciate the comfort of large-format blazers, we’re getting tired of how hard it is to fit one under a winter coat, as well as how wrinkly all that extra fabric can get. So, three cheers for the next iteration of suiting, which is all about shorter, more fitted cuts, button-front vests and even matching trousers. Look for lightweight wool in the winter and expect linen versions come spring.

Shop the trend: Banana Republic Siena Italian Wool Blazer ($270); Reformation Classic Slim Blazer ($80); Onitsuka Tiger New York Sneakers ($278); Amalie Blazer in Italian Wool Gabardine ($395)

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Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

OUT: Slip Dresses / IN: Shirt Waist Dresses

Slip dresses are one of the comfiest pieces we own—which isn't all that surprising, because they're basically the fancy jammies of daywear. However, after a few seasons of wearing more casual styles, we’re ready to take things up a notch. “I’m looking to wearing more sophisticated silhouettes that are timeless and long-lasting,” says editor Stephanie Meraz.

Shop the trend: Nordstrom Long Sleeve Shirtdress ($89); Brochu Walker Fia Belted Dress ($348); Black Halo Kensington Fit & Flare ($435)



dana dickey

Senior Editor

Dana Dickey is a PureWow Senior Editor, and during more than a decade in digital media, she has scoped out and tested top products and services across the lifestyle space...

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Editor

Abby Hepworth is an RRCA-certified running coach who has worked in fashion for over 10 years. Want to know what shoes are in this season? She's got you. Need recommendations on...

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