In women’s fashion, there are those timeless pieces that become instant wardrobe staples, and then there are trendy items that can make your dress “in” or “out” with the turn of a calendar page. While it’s best to have a healthy mix of each as part of your own personal style, it can be daunting to try and keep up with the latter.

Rather than mimic the bold, extravagant looks shown on fashion runways, it’s easier to use these pieces as inspiration for your own wardrobe. When it comes to stylish women’s dresses going into 2023, here’s a look at what’s in and what’s out.

What’s In:

Extreme Lengths

Trends are now pointing to extreme lengths — mini and maxi — for dresses and skirts. 

Regarding mini dresses, remember: there’s no age limit when it comes to style. If you’re self-conscious about showing too much skin, choose a high neckline or pair a mini dress with high boots for balance.

Look for maxi dresses that finish at the ankle but also offer a more streamlined fit (Try Kiya Tomlin’s Gown Skirt or Maxi Dress). Tube skirts and dresses fall into this category, as well, just look for pieces with subtle splits that finish at the knee for comfort and functionality.

Bold Colors

Goodbye neutrals, hello mood-boosting bright colors of dopamine dressing. In 2022, dressing with the intention of boosting your mood involved more than just a pop of color.

Not ready to go head-to-toe with bold hues? Start with a bright accessory, like shoes or a bag, and add it to a look in which you’re already comfortable.

If you want to get a head start looking for the “in” color, keep in mind that lime made an appearance at several recent fashion shows from New York to Paris.

Bohemian Styling

Look for dresses and skirts featuring handcrafted pieces, intricate knits, fringe and boho prints. You can also pair simple dresses with jackets that feature quilted, patchwork and embroidered styles. Accessorize with jewelry that is oversized, has colorful stones and feels handmade.

Not only is fringing fun, it can also be very flattering. Select pieces where fringing falls cleverly over any areas of which you’re a little self-conscious. It easily skims over those areas while also taking your look to a new level.

Cut-Outs

While the runways may have shown lots of flesh, the idea of cut-out sections of clothes doesn’t have to be daunting. This trend can be done in a subtle way, including keyhole details, open backs, and cold-shoulder tops that expose a little flesh without feeling like you’re on display. (Try pairing Kiya Tomlin’s Cut Out Onesie, Sling Tee or Cut Out Top with a sleek skirt for a dress-like look.)

Cargo Pockets

In the latest fashion shows, a selection of skirts, dresses, jackets and trousers have featured overblown cargo pockets, a nostalgic Y2K throwback. Don’t be surprised to see this trickle down to retail pieces that feature slimmer, more subtle cargo pockets.

What’s Out:

The following trends have had their time in the limelight, at least for now: 

• Fur
• Neutral colors
• Midi skirts
• Camo
• Unsustainable clothing

Knowing how trends come and go, perhaps give them a special place in (the back of) your closet until call-back time and put a pause on any new purchases of these styles.