10 Trends That Didn't Make the Cut This Year — and What You Should Wear Instead

POPSUGAR Photography | Kathryna Hancock
POPSUGAR Photography | Kathryna Hancock

As Heidi Klum would say, "One day you're in, and the next day you're out." This could not ring more true for clothes we've worn and trends we've tried in 2016. So what exactly are we saying bye to? At the top of the list are black shoelace-style chokers and Stan Smiths — items every fashion girl, including us, sported in one Instagram snap or another. Our reasons for saying bye to the 10 items ahead are quite simple: we're inspired to switch things up.

Based on our own tastes and runway trends, we've compiled a list of items to retire. Whether you have been holding on to that jacket for far too many years or are sick of a particular trend, it's time to begin anew with your style. Give those pieces a break, and then check out the updated alternatives to wear instead.

01
What to Give Up: Peacoats
Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

What to Give Up: Peacoats

A peacoat is always a safe jacket choice, which is why we're challenging ourselves to go beyond this traditional style.

What to Try: Puffer Jackets
POPSUGAR Photography | Kathryna Hancock

What to Try: Puffer Jackets

Unlike the puffers from our childhood days, the coat has received several design upgrades like a bomber style. The range of colors in the selections aren't bad either.

02
What to Give Up: Bell Sleeves
Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

What to Give Up: Bell Sleeves

Dramatic and flirty, bell sleeves were easily one of our favorite trends of the year. However, it got us thinking: what will be able to top that in 2017?

What to Try: Ruffles
Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

What to Try: Ruffles

Our answer? Ruffles. We're already seeing them pop up in stores and on the runway, so it's only a matter of time before this sweet detail takes over your wardrobe. Whether it's a ruffle top or skirt, this statement piece isn't only romantic but also edgier than we've seen in previous seasons.

03
What to Give Up: The Choker
Angela Datre

What to Give Up: The Choker

It's time to retire your black string back to the jewelry box. Whether you used to wrap it once or multiple times into a bow, this choker style is one you won't be sad to see go.

What to Try: Statement Earrings
Angela Datre

What to Try: Statement Earrings

It's time to turn your attention to your ears — adorn them with major baubles, like the fashion world favorite, Les Bonbons, and watch the complements roll in.

04
What to Give Up: Lace-Up Tops
Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

What to Give Up: Lace-Up Tops

The biggest struggle of a lace-up top? Finding the right bra to match so it doesn't peek out between the strings. For 2017, we're switching gears a bit.

What to Try: High-Neck Tops
Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

What to Try: High-Neck Tops

The high-neck top is a bit more dramatic and offers a hint more coverage, too. Focus on its subtler details, like frills around the collar and shirt options in lace or chiffon, to give your outfit an upgrade.

05
What to Give Up: Distressed Holes Tees
Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

What to Give Up: Distressed Holes Tees

While we appreciate the destroyed look on denim, on a t-shirt is a different story. It's time to invest in a more functional and eye-catching tee that you won't get chilly in.

What to Try: Vintage or Graphic Band Tees
Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

What to Try: Vintage or Graphic Band Tees

Dress it with jeans or wear it to sleep, but a vintage band tee never goes out of style. Although you can definitely thrift some one-of-a-kind pieces, you'll just as likely be able to scoop one up at your favorite retailer.

06
What to Give Up: Flares
Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

What to Give Up: Flares

This '70s style was one we welcomed back with open arms and even gave a spin in the office. If you're sad to see flares go, not to worry! They're just getting an upgrade.

What to Try: Crop Flares
Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

What to Try: Crop Flares

Unlike their longer sister version, crop flares hit above the ankles and can be worn with heels, mules, loafers, sneakers . . . the list continues. The shorter style looks fresher, and for the petite girls out there, you can totally rock flares now.

07
What to Give Up: Off-the-Shoulder Tops
POPSUGAR Photography | Sheila Gim

What to Give Up: Off-the-Shoulder Tops

There was no escaping off-the-shoulder tops and dresses in 2016, but they didn't make the cut for 2017. Designers and brands have managed, however, to rework the cutout-shoulder trend into other options that are just as wearable.

What to Try: The "Cold Shoulder" Trend
POPSUGAR Photography | Rima Brindamour

What to Try: The "Cold Shoulder" Trend

While the off-the-shoulder look is sexier, the cold-shoulder look is sweeter. You still get to show off the parts you want without experiencing anxiety of your top slipping down thanks to that extra piece of fabric.

08
What to Give Up: Stan Smiths
POPSUGAR Photography | Benjamin Stone

What to Give Up: Stan Smiths

Stan Smiths were one of the most searched sneakers of this year, and though they do pair well with everything, we're getting a little tired of seeing them everywhere.

What to Try: Cushioned Sneakers
Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

What to Try: Cushioned Sneakers

For 2017, we're searching for sneakers that are not only stylish but comfortable for your feet too (i.e. they must have good sole support). You'll be able to walk or run a mile in the sporty pairs below.

09
What to Give Up: The Slip Dress
Tim Regas | @wheresmydriver

What to Give Up: The Slip Dress

Slips were easily a Summer and Fall '16 staple. They paired well with sweaters, turtleneck tops, and t-shirts, so you likely have a couple on hand. For next year, however, we want to try a dress more bold and fun.

What to Try: Vacation-Print Dresses
POPSUGAR Photography | Kathryna Hancock

What to Try: Vacation-Print Dresses

We spotted vacation prints on the Spring '17 runways of Christian Siriano, Oscar de la Renta, and Rosie Assoulin, which immediately breathed new life into our dress options for next year. Just looking at the bold and colorful prints is enough to make us smile.