Cool metallic accents are a foolproof way to elevate an outfit formula. Not to mention, they’re just fun.
By
Natalie Michie
Date November 15, 2023
Call it a rebellion against recession core. Chalk it up to Beyoncé’s viral Renaissance tour. These days, pop culture is positively starved for glamour, and one 2023 trend is addressing this need: silver.
Often associated with holiday festivities or relegated to jewellery use only, cool-toned chromes are steeped in celebratory symbolism. So it’s worth rejoicing that in the fall 2023 landscape — where, let’s face it, uncertainty is everywhere — the silver fashion trend is infiltrating outfits like never before.
Hunter Schafer in Alexander McQueen at the Los Angeles premiere of ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad Of Songbirds & Snakes’ on November 13, 2023. (Photography courtesy of Alexander McQueen)
Designers have spearheaded the shift of the season. There were sexy asymmetrical dresses at Ferragamo and shimmery blazers at Coperni. We saw what can only be described as metallic-hued party pants at Isabel Marant. From brilliant ballet flats at Cormio to avant-garde trenches at Rick Owens, recent runways have exuded DIY festivity through lustrous tones. It’s no coincidence that chromatic visuals are also tied to tech booms and futuristic newness — so with artificial intelligence firmly in the zeitgeist, it feels particularly apt that fashion is reverting to metallic mainstays.
Photography courtesy of Lauchmetrics.COM/SPOTLIGHT
How to wear the silver trend for fall 2023
Contrary to popular belief, the rich hue is, in fact, a wearable basic. When incorporated through tactful tones, it can completely revitalize an outfit. Think: a white tank paired with pearlescent pants or minimalist separates with a reflective handbag. And while silver in the form of jewellery has never gone out of fashion, the 2023 trend ups the accessorizing ante via heavy hardware like thick sculptural bangles and bulbous earrings.
Photography courtesy of Lauchmetrics.COM/SPOTLIGHT
Above all, sartorial expressions of silver are the equivalent of looking ahead and saying, “Where’s the party?” And with its surprising wearability, everyone is invited to this fashion fête. Below, FASHION curated the best pieces to get in on the trend.
Reformation dress
All-over sequins might feel intimidating, but when paired with minimal accessories and a slicked-back bun, a one-and-done piece like this sparkly column dress is a no-brainer for party season — and a foolproof way to tackle the silver trend. The whisper-thin straps give the metallic moment a touch of softness, while the back slit means you can actually move around in it.
The styling of this metallic mini on the Gap website is exactly how we’d want to wear it — paired with a knit top, white crew socks and preppy loafers. The contrast of the silver skirt with a textured top and classic shoes? Chef’s kiss.
Thanks to its oversized spherical shape, this statement ring has an otherworldly effect. Despite its dramatic size, it doesn’t feel overly heavy or cumbersome as an everyday statement. If you’re looking to try mixing-and-matching your metallics, it’s available in silver and gold for bold two-toned accessorizing.
Not ready to go full-metallic? A playful purse, like this sparkly shoulder bag, is a fun way to add some silver to even the simplest jeans-and-a-tee outfits. But beware: Rhinestone accessories are the gateway to more sparkle (see Reformation dress above).
Made with buttery leather, these ballet flats by Canadian brand Maguire have flexible soles and soft backs for all-day comfort. The decorative bows add a feminine flare, while the structure is suited for all arches (Barbie’s flat feet included). Because the reflective leather surface has a satiny gloss, keep in mind that wear will cause wrinkles — and that just adds to the charm!
Last year, Bottega Veneta’s oversized drop earrings went viral and sold out — sparking feverish searches for dupes. Recent runways have been leaning into this winning design, with the brand doubling down on its silver drop masterpieces with increasingly oversized iterations. In other words: There’s no better time to invest in the style. This highly-rated pair is perhaps the most reliable recreation, with a minimalist oval shape and a lightweight feel.
Sometimes the items we think we’ll never wear are the ones that become wardrobe rotation staples. This is the case with silver pants. Because they’re a statement on their own, they’re surprisingly versatile — pairing well with anything form a boxy black blazer to a crisp white tee.
This plus-size pair goes up to size 20. With high-waisted fit and straight-line sporty tailoring, it’s comfortable and luxe. Plus, there are similar options for conventional and petite sizing.
A shiny riff on a fan-favourite bag, the metallic Tabby combines two cornerstones of fall 2023 fashion: silver and puffed-out garments. Made with metallic leather, this day-to-night staple comes with detachable straps for shoulder or crossbody wear. Thanks to its firm snap closure and soft fabric lining, it’s functional with a cool pop of freshness.
If there’s one thing you need for fall, it’s a good boot. This year, why not go silver? With a textured glossy finish, these chromatic fall booties have a charismatic worn-out effect that melds futuristic chicness with beloved vintage styling. Featuring a leather insole, a sleek side zip, and a chunky block heel, they’re wearable and they add an instant wow-factor to any outfit.
With a hand-hammered surface and imperfect curves, this cuff by Canadian-owned brand Charlie Paige brings an industrial edge to any ensemble. Made of brass with a tarnish-resistant high-polish finish, the staple accessory staple promises to stay looking new despite everyday wear.
Thanks to its customizable opening that is meant to fit any wrist size, it can be worn as a chunky bracelet or an avant-garde upper arm cuff.
Crafted with sustainable vegan leather, this made-in-Canada coat has the elegance of the silver fall 2023 fashion trend with the classic coziness of a good ol’ oversized trench. Its full-length silhouette comes with an adjustable belt for a personalized fit every time.
Details like an oversized collars, double breasted buttons and clean-cut silver trim add to its modern appeal while the slitted back makes for breathability.
Ranging from XXS petite to 3X, this size-inclusive tee is a silver trend staple. With a pullover design and flowy material, it brings the experimental ethos of metallics to the comfortable familiarity of a humble T-shirt. Hailed above all for its coziness, some reviews note that it is quite lightweight, so it’s best as part of layering ensembles during crisp autumn days.
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