"A trend that made headlines during the year was that of tiny handbags. At the 2019 American Music Awards, American singer Lizzo sported a ridiculously tiny handbag. The 31-year-old Juice hitmaker stepped onto the red carpet decked in a peach, one-shouldered outfit by Valentino. Her statement Valentino bag completed her look at the show"

The fashion industry once again took centrestage in 2019 as several new trends and disruptive startups moulding and shaping the market made up the year. 

A trend that made headlines during the year was that of tiny handbags. At the 2019 American Music Awards, American singer Lizzo sported a ridiculously tiny handbag. The 31-year-old Juice hitmaker stepped onto the red carpet decked in a peach, one-shouldered outfit by Valentino. Her statement Valentino bag completed her look at the show. 

Neon green was the ‘it’ color as was evident from the first look of the Spring fashion 2019 itself. Several major labels – from Gucci, with its feathered neon gowns and Balenciaga with its fluffed-up sweater – embraced the shade in the beginning of the year with the trend further seeping down to red carpets and magazine covers as well.

Brands explore their wild side with cow prints

This year fashionistas scored with monochrome and minimalistic cow prints. The black-and-white cow print not only made a bold fashion statement but also added a playful vibe to the ensemble. Some of the most prominent celebrities like the Ducbess of Sussex and Victoria Beckham were seen dressed in this rather understated look from the animal print family. 

Sneakers make a fashion statement

In the last couple of years, sneakers have become a fashion staple. Designers and stylists across the world are paring these sneakers with all types of outfits and using them for all kinds of outings. Some of the biggest names in fashion lend their own touch of innovation and luxury to sneakers last years. These ranged from prominent brands like Adidas by Stella McCartney to the Rhyton Gucci sneakers.

Conscious shift to sustainable fashion

In 2019, the apparel industry made a conscious shift towards sustainability. Globally, this wave was spearheaded by designers like Stella McCartney, Vivienne Westwood, and Kenneth Cole. In India, a host of home-grown brands are ensuring that the country does not miss out on these positive changes. For instance, designer Sujata Chatterjee has launched a new startup Twirl Store which rewards customers to buy upcycled products on its website. The brand also donated some of its collected clothes. Similarly, Chennai-based brand Rossebelle produces sustainable women’s wear and other products with eco-friendly material, deadstock fabrics, and re-purposed vintage fabrics.

Industry leaders hope that in future more brands, designers and labels adopt sustainability just as they accept new trends like tiny bags and small sunglasses.