For the third year in a row, I was given the honor of covering Kansas City Fashion Week as part of their media team.

Kansas City Fashion Week features local, national, and international designers, in two full weeks of premier runway shows. Additionally, they give opportunities to stylists, make-up artists, models, and photographers to showcase their work in a creative format.

Both years that I’ve attended, KCFW shows were hosted in the Grand Hall at Union Station, which is the perfect setting! But like with everything else, 2020 and 2021 had to look a little bit different, due to the spikes of COVID cases. KCFW worked with local venue, White Iron Ridge, on a modified plan for Kansas City Fashion Week and took things virtual. Initially, you might think, “How?” But I assure you, the experience was still very immersive, and you felt like you were right in the front row, while staying healthy and safe.

This year, I had the opportunity to attend two of the live filming sessions, getting a sneak preview before they aired virtually.  It was such an incredible experience to see everything that goes on behind the scenes of a runway show.  After everything was ready for prime time, I watched two of the shows from the comfort of my home and pajamas, which was really an ideal situation, if I’m honest.

We all know by now that I love fashion—the clothing, the accessories, the hair and makeup, everything. So when I was given this opportunity, I was pumped! But more than anything, I love to look at runway styles and use them as inspiration for everyday looks. In this post, I’m breaking down the Top Ten Trends that were on repeat on the KCFW runway, as well as how you can incorporate them into your closet.

1. Pastel Tones. Um okay, twist my arm. This girl loves her mint, lavender, rose, and all sorbet tints in between. This year’s runway showed the versatility of these colors and how you can wear them in each season. I love to wear these as everyday basics, as well as standout pieces.

2. Folk-Inspired. When I was in middle school, I had a major moment obsessing over 70s style. And while I still rock my turquoise on the daily, I did trade in the bell bottoms for boyfriend jeans along the way. However, folk style is back in a big way. My favorite way to wear this trend is with bold prints like paisley, and always with my gladiator sandals.

3. Fringe. From tops, to skirts, to the accessories, fringe was everywhere! I don’t have a ton in my wardrobe. Yet. But I love fringe details on a handbag or on a statement skirt.

4. Bridgerton Vibes. So apparently, it’s not just the love scenes that leave a lasting impression after this Netflix binge. The fashion inspiration was everywhere! Initially this one seems like a challenge to wear to your next happy hour. But it’s easy to incorporate with hints of lace, or collars, or even fun hair clips and headbands.

5. Rocker Chic. The hardcore rocker looks were back on the runway for another season. The leather, the dark colors, and the smokey makeup to match. My preferred way to wear is a cool leather jacket, but I also love my Doc Martens, and adding both of these to an otherwise feminine look.

6. Patchwork. With everyone embracing new hobbies during quarantine, those newly found quilting skills found themselves on the runway. Patchwork prints were in dresses, coats, pants, everything. I love this take on a patchwork dress, and anything with this many colors provides endless versatility.

7. Dramatic Details. The drama is in the details. More specifically the sleeves. The bigger, the bolder, the more detailed, the better. Puff sleeves aren’t going anywhere, and they are only getting more interesting.

8. Sequins. YES! I love the joy and whimsy that come with sequins, so I was delighted to see them on the runway. You can wear them from head to toe for a bold take, or just a pop of a handbag will do. But sequins are here in a big way!

9. Blue. This was the color of the season! Pops of blue, Blue jeans, Blue makeup, Blue everywhere. The easiest way to embrace the blues is with a killer jean jacket. The most versatile piece in my closet, and always in style.

10. The Roaring 20s. Last but certainly not least, the people are ready to ditch their casual wear. As we emerge from the last year at home, embrace the sentiment of “anything goes.” Dress up, try something new, be bold, be different. If we’re learned anything over the last year, it’s that time should not be taken for granted, and don’t wait for tomorrow, because nothing is promised.

For more information on this season, you can visit the Kansas City Fashion Week website, or you can check out any of the designers (list below for reference).

Saturday – May 1st, 2021

Annette Sunshine Designs

Jaxson Wyatt

Jeanne Nuage

Joshua Christensen

Kyndra Jade

Naava Swim

Topping Designs

Friday – April 30, 2021

De’LaTail Custom Creations

Gracie Key

House of Colby

Jennifer Robbins

Jo Hartley

Nokota

NYX Boutique

Romee The Brand

Thursday – April 29th, 2021

Anai V.

De’Calage

Elizabeth Diamant

Fashion By Ayala

Jaqui Co.

Kara Rainey

Kindred

Mozze

I can’t wait to see how you incorporate these trends!

XOXO,

Molly B.