The “whatever is old is new” adage is typically truth when it comes to fashion. This season is no different with classic style a solid staple with a few new twists thrown in for novelty.
Pretty pleats, feminine florals, plaid, midis and maxis, blazers and more blazers — all fresh-again fashion repeats. But there are also brand-new front slits in leg wear. Legs are wider. Sleeves are fluttering and ballooning. And leather is everywhere, reported Laura Belsinger of Bluetique in downtown Pensacola.
Look for “a lot of metallics and a lot of shine and sequins,” she said.
Typical winter hues like rich red, chocolate brown and olive green are trending. But also, cool ice blue (think “Frozen”).
What’s more timeless than pearls?
“Pearls never go out of style but they’re definitely trending,” said Belsinger, adding that clutches in a variety of materials including woven and shimmer are popular this winter.
As in the evolution of species, mutations bring about permanent change. In the fashion world, one of those mutations is comfort.
Fun tennis shoes are now a regular attendee in almost every setting. For winter 2024, think denim maxi skirts teamed with white tees and cute tennis shoes. Winter’s favorite staples, blazers, are showing up in softer, comfier fabrics. Or wear your blazer as part of a popular suiting set, which can be separated for even more versatility. And dresses have been holding firm as favorites ever since the pandemic.
Danielle Wolfe
Webster defines evolution as the gradual development of something, growth and diversification from earlier forms. Those words resonate with January model Danielle Wolfe.
“Over the years, I have realized that I can ‘do hard things’ — whether that is a race, meeting a new person, trying something new, reaching out to a stranger/friend in need or just going out of your comfort zone in any way. It makes a difference in my state of mind.”
It was that spirit that drove Wolfe to complete her first Ironman in November, swimming 2.4 miles, biking 112 miles and finishing with a marathon (26.2 miles).
The Connecticut native holds a master’s degree and has spent much of her adult life caring for her two children. While her husband served at various bases, she volunteered in squadrons, local communities and the Red Cross.
Now settled in Gulf Breeze, Wolfe is plugged into non-profit work.
“Currently, I am involved in my local church — St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Gulf Breeze — as the chairperson of our Christian Service Commission, mostly helping with the food bank and feeding the homeless at the Alfred Washburn Center in Pensacola. My favorite thing to do in Pensacola would be — triathlon!”
Wolfe is active in the local multi-sport club, Tri Gulf Coast. And she’s helping to create the Gulf Coast’s first women’s only triathlon club, TriChix, launching this month.
“Helping others, a sense of community, having a supportive family, sunlight, fresh air, healthy food, sleep and an attitude of gratitude is the best way for me to proceed in life. This has definitely evolved over time and has taken some work — but it’s worth it!
