How To Wear The New Dramatic Draping Trend

I’ve always been one for clean lines and modern, simple silhouettes. However, I’ve noticed a trend for spring that is quite interesting and fun that I want to talk about. How do you feel about dramatic draping in your wardrobe? Do you like a little bit of a flourish in your tops, dresses, skirts or pants?  I’ve been noticing a lot of interesting draping in spring attire. Even though I’m not sure that I’m 100% into this trend for myself, I absolutely love the architectural vibe of it. Dramatic draping is taking shape from the looks on the spring runway. Their intricate and beautiful designs have trickled down to incredibly wearable options available in your favorite department store or specialty boutique. You can go as bold or as subtle as you want. Let’s take a closer look at the new draping trend for women over 40

Draping Trend On The Spring Runway 

How were we seeing this trend represented on the runway? So many of our favorite designers put beautiful pieces out that induced swoons. One of my favorite collections that showcased the draping trend was Victoria Beckham. I personally think she can do no wrong and her Spring 2020 collection has proven that again. She mixed a charming palette of neutrals with bright, saturated cool tones. Though I loved many looks in the collection, one of the standouts for me was the emerald green, flowing silk midi dress with the cut-out deep V-neck. I give her extra credit for styling this look on a chocolate-skinned model, which made the color really pop. 

The spring collection from Sally LaPointe was basically a poster child for this trend. Her collection featured soft pinks and butter creams, then transitioned to orange, cognac and turquoise. The color story alone was enough to get me excited! However, her translation of the draping trend was on point (no pun intended). Many of her looks featured softly draped ponchos in luxe fabrics, loose fitting pants and tops in sheer fabrics and soft leathers with pleats and draping in all the right places. 

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How To Wear The Draped Fashion Trend For Women Over 40

As I mentioned earlier, I’ve always gravitated towards more clean and simple silhouettes. But the idea of dabbling in this trend makes me a little excited. Sometimes the drama of a beautiful drape convinces me to break from my norm and give something new a try. In the beginning, I’d probably just dip a toe in this trend, so wearing something like these Light Codes Wide Leg Pants are perfect. I’d add my uniform simple white t-shirt, a baggy sweater or sweatshirt and a comfy pair of sneakers or sandals to finish the look.

Another option you can try, which takes it up a notch but still keeps the trend wearable, is this Cult Gaia Marion Tie Hem Top. I love the soft mint green color and the fact that you can pair this top with pretty much anything on the bottom. Wear it with a pair of your favorite jeans, wide leg pants, a great pencil skirt or a pair of long shorts, do I need to keep going? 

Now, if you want to go all out and take a deep dive into the trend, opt for something like this Victoria Beckham Batwing Sleeve Dress. This dress is definitely a splurge depending on your budget, but I can see it being worn multiple times to various events, evenings out or even to your place of business. Also, I believe this dress can stand the test of time. I wouldn’t be mad if someone pulled this dress out in ten years; it’s stunning now and I believe it will still be stunning in the future. 

Draping Trend Expert Style Tips

1. This trend is perfect if you want to camouflage.

Whether you’re trying to make something look larger or smaller, adding a bit of a flourish can help you achieve just that. If you have a small bust like me, something like this Victoria Beckham Frilled Scarf Blouse, can give you a little bit of volume on top. I love the neutral color as I believe that a piece with such thoughtful detailing should be showcased in a minimal color to keep it looking classy. 

2. Embrace the comfort of the drape.

Am I the only person that loves comfortable pants? I highly doubt it. Wearing pants that I don’t have to worry about how they will look and feel if I have a big meal or gain a few pounds is figurative heaven for me. If you feel the same, you can showcase the draping trend with something like these Begonia Ballroom Pants from Free People. You can also try the trend in an airy top like this Aubrey Tee, also from Free People. I love these for the spring or summer, when the weather is warm and wearing anything tight and confining is just not cutting it. 

3. Simplicity is key for everyday wear.

As much as we all love the super dramatic looks we’ve seen on the runways, in reality I think we all know those do not translate into an everyday look. Maybe one day we can be the belle of the ball wearing an exaggerated garment as we make our grand entrance into the room. I’m sure there are some of you who do live this life; but for the rest of us, let’s work this trend into our wardrobes in a subtle way. I’ve tried to find some great examples for you in this post! 

4. When in doubt, create your own drape.

It’s OK to execute a little fashion DIY sometimes. If any of these looks or pieces are not resonating with you, go the simple route and create your own drapey moment with an oversized scarf or pashmina. This print wrap from Bloomingdale’s is perfect for travel, lounging around or going on a casual outing. You can wrap or drape an oversized scarf around your body in any way you see fit, so give it a shot and see where your creativity and style can take you. 

Shop The Draped Fashion Trend for Spring

Pictured Above:

Sally LaPointe Spring 2020

Victoria Beckham Spring 2020

Victoria Beckham Batwing-Sleeve Draped Midi Dress, $1,960

Light Codes Wide Leg Pants, $88

Eileen Fisher Sheer Silk Georgette Wrap, $138

Cult Gaia Marion Tie-Hem Top, $498

Snider Klimt Draped Leather-Trim Jacket, $795

 

–Carmen Turner

You may like to read more of Carmen’s trends posts for women over 40 like How To Look Chic In Earth Tone Colors For Winter And Spring and The Best Ways To Wear Spring Florals In Winter.

Runway Photos: Vogue.com

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