The top five fashion trends of 2018 include plaid, athleisure, and retro styles

Lauren Hunt

Staff Writer

2018 marked the year of both patterns and solids in fashion. The first wardrobe staple was the fanny pack. This item made a come back this year allowing style and convenience to go hand and hand. From concerts to a casual day out, fanny packs were seen incorporated into almost every outfit.

   Another unique trend seen numerous times throughout the year was fringe. Primarily seen on bags, skirts, and dresses, fringe added texture and movement to every piece it was included on. Fringe was a fun dramatic way to embrace a look.

   The most popular fashion trend of 2018 by far was plaid. The pattern was seen everywhere this year, primarily in the fall and winter months. It was easy to get your hands on almost anything in the print this year. From colorful plaid coats, pants, blazer, and any accessories, there were numerous ways to incorporate plaid within your wardrobe.  However, this trend is just getting started and 2019 will probably see much more in the way of plaid.

   Trench coats were another major fashion staple this year. The tan outerwear offered a subtle sprinkle of sophistication to any outfit. Many paired one with jeans and a plain white t-shirt, making for a simple yet put together ensemble. Trench coats are infinitely versatile, looking just as good with sneakers as they do with your heels.

   Finally, 2018 was the year of “athleisure.” Designers took gym attire to the runway with many athletic-inspired pieces. Top designers such as Gucci, Tod’s, and Louis Vuitton hopped on the trend this year. We will see how these retro workout pieces proceed in 2019.

      Frany Barile contributed to this article.

New Year's resolutions you’ll actually stick to

Devon Beacham

Staff Writer

With 2019 fast approaching, many people are making resolutions, but as important as these goals can be—from eating better to saving money—they are typically broken. Whether it be in the first week or the first month, many people’s resolutions slowly fizzle out and they return to their old ways. Other times, however, motivation and determination overcome laziness. Individuals can maintain their goals and, overall, create a better lifestyle for themselves. But what is the difference between the successful goals and those that often ultimately lead to failure?

 It seems that the most effective methods to approach resolutions is by creating measurable ones. Rather than aiming for “being more active,” one should make their resolution “exercise for one hour everyday.” Along with that, instead of thinking “make healthier choices,” set a goal of “eating at least one vegetable at every meal.” Rather than “lose weight,” plan to “lose 10 pounds.” By making a goal that people can assure they complete, it is easier for them to force themselves to do it and to check it off when they’re done. If someone is trying to form a target that they are capable of achieving, the best option is to make it measurable. It also makes them feel a whole lot better once they do achieve it. A goal that one can look back on after many days have passed and know for certain whether or not he or she has fulfilled is more likely to end in success.