You're not the only one who questions whether a runway look is actually wearable. So often designers play up their collections to achieve a theme [1] or make their shows memorable. But once we whittle away the glamour and uncover next season's trends, it's easy to find universal styles that will work for you. In fact, there's one simple combination we're already spotting everywhere, and we're calling it the waist panel.
All it takes is a wide strap or contrast strip of material that breaks up an outfit, sort of like a makeshift colorblock. The accessory not only adds polish, but elongates the torso. Whether you pull it off by layering a crop top over a tight, printed tank or you invest in a chunky belt is up to you. Read on to see the different iterations we've spotted so far, then shop for the right pieces to achieve the look.
Opening Ceremony
Achieved by layering a crop top over a patterned tank and finishing with a skinny belt on top.
Prabal Gurung
Bandage material breaks up a silk dress and adds dimension.
Tibi
A drop-waist midi is further broken up by two mesh panels.
Tome
A pinstripe top is elongated with tight contrast ribbing.
Vivienne Hu
A thick satin strip hugs the waist and acts as a belt.
Tibi
A structured denim belt finishes a knit tank dress so simply, making it all the more appealing.