I Tried The Top Trending Items in Fashion—This Is What’s Actually Worth The Hype

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I undeniably suffer from fashion FOMO. If something is trending online, it sets up camp at the forefront of my mind and refuses to leave until it’s in my closet. The allure of trying out the latest fashion craze is irresistible. I can’t help but wonder how a particular trend would look on me, how it would fit into my style, and whether or not it actually lives up to the hype. This often leads me down a rabbit hole of online research, scouring TikTok reviews, and scrolling through countless Pinterest photos for inspiration. Whether it’s a pair of $500 jeans or a designer dupe, I’m always eager to know if a trend is truly deserving of the attention and worthy of the price tag.  

The Top 2024 Trending Fashion Items Reviewed

But let’s face it, not everything that’s making waves in the fashion world is practical or even remotely realistic for everyday wear. That’s why I’ve taken it upon myself to try out the top 10 trending fashion items of 2024 thus far, and separate the gems from the gimmicks. From statement pieces to subtle wardrobe staples, I’ve tried them all so you don’t have to. Consider this your insider’s guide to navigating the ever-changing landscape of fashion trends, ensuring that your next purchase is not only on-trend but also worth every penny.

So, if you’re ready to satisfy your curiosity without sacrificing your savings, read on to see the 2024 trending fashion items reviewed and find out what’s truly worth adding to your closet.   

KHAITE Danielle Jeans

2024 Trend: Designer Denim

I’m on the hunt for the perfect pair of denim, so when the Khaite Danielle Jeans caught fire on social media, I knew I had to try them out for myself. However, it took me a bit to even hit the add to cart button because… they’re $480, which feels wild for denim, even though it is designer. So, in the name of research, I bit the bullet, and when they arrived, I practically had the jeans on my body before the UPS delivery man was down my front steps.

For the price, I was expecting to look in the mirror and see a supermodel staring back at me, but to be completely honest I just saw myself in a solid pair of jeans. They fit well and felt super high-quality, but I just couldn’t justify the price when my Abercrombie and AGOLDE jeans look just as good. Plus, being 5’4”, they were way too long on me. Unless you’re tall or willing to get them hemmed, they might not be the best fit. If you’re into splurging on designer denim, go for it, but there are plenty of other options out there that won’t break the bank. 

Some other good options:

Adidas Sambas

2024 Trend: Sporty Sneakers

I bought a pair of red and white Adidas Sambas a few months ago and while they have definitely been one of my most-worn sneakers, I’m not sure I’d recommend purchasing a pair today. I love the look of them, but they’ve just become too widespread and are on their way out of style in my opinion. Plus, they aren’t the most comfortable sneaker. After a few hours of walking, the soles of my feet definitely ache.

If you are in the market for Sambas but want to try something new, the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 sneakers are at the top of my wishlist. Or, if you’re set on Sambas, opt for a more unique colorway, even though you’ll most likely have to deal with a retailer’s surcharge for these. 

Some other good options:

Jenni Kayne Cooper Cardigan

2024 Trend: Corpcore

The Jenni Kayne Cooper Cardigan is proof that if you see something enough, it becomes all you can think about. This cardigan was the #1 advertisement that my Instagram algorithm served me for weeks on end, and when I decided to review the top 2024 trending items in fashion, I knew it was a sign to finally make it mine.

As advertised, the Cooper Cardigan features a very flattering and structured hourglass shape, which you’d never expect from a typical sweater. It’s simultaneously unique and timeless—a combo that is difficult to achieve these days. The wool cashmere blend is thick, warm, and most importantly, itch-free. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve found an amazing sweater only for it to feel like it gave me a case of the chicken pocks, but the Cooper Cardigan is so soft, I want to curl up and sleep with it. Retailing for $525, this sweater is definitely an investment piece, but if you take care of it, it’ll be something you’ll have forever. 

Some other good options:

Dorsey Tennis Necklace

2024 Trend: Elegant, Everyday Jewelry

All of my favorite influencers, like Courtney Grow and Lilly Sisto, wear and love Dorsey jewelry, so even before this order arrived, I knew I was going to love it. If you’re unfamiliar with the brand, Dorsey creates “elegant jewelry for everyday wear,” and is most well-known for their lab-grown sapphire tennis necklaces and bracelets, which have the look of real diamonds at a more affordable price point. My personal favorite piece is the James Bezel Riviére Necklace, but I ordered the bracelet version to get a feel for the product, and it’s honestly perfect.

I have two other tennis bracelets made with real diamonds, and the Dorsey bracelet looks virtually identical, completing my wrist stack for a quarter of the price. I have heard a few reports of some gold chipping off after time, but in my opinion, jewelry is meant to be lived in, and the chips show character. These pieces also make great gifts for spoiling your loved ones on a budget! In the words of Benjamin Barry in How To Lose A Guy in 10 Days, I’m always looking to “frost myself,” so Dorsey is my new favorite discovery. 

Some other good options:

Alaïa Ballerina Flats 

2024 Trend: Mesh Ballet Flats

Luxury fashion house Alaïa took the ballet flat trend one step further with uniquely shaped studded and mesh renditions—AKA the cool-girl-shoe dominating my social media feeds. It seems like every chic creator that I follow on social media owns a version of this shoe, so, eager to join in, I headed to Saks Fifth Avenue to try them for myself.

Unfortunately, my curiosity was met by a smug sales associate informing me that their stock flew off the shelves, and all they had left was a singular size 8. Wanting to at least get a sense for the shoe, I pulled the strap as tight as it could go and did a loop around the shoe floor. Despite the exquisite leather and stunning studs, they didn’t offer much more than the H&M pair I was wearing that day. With budget-friendly alternatives flooding the market, splurging on these is not a must to stay on trend. For those considering designer ballet flats, classics from Chanel or Prada might be a wiser investment.

Some other good options:

DISSH Linen Set

2024 Trend: Linen Matching Sets

If you’re trying to figure out where you recognize the name DISSH, it’s probably because their beautiful advertisements have graced your Instagram feed a time or two. I’m a sucker for an Instagram ad, but am always wary about the accuracy of the ad and the quality of the item, so the first time that I ordered from DISSH, I was blown away.

Their coordinating linen sets surpassed all of my expectations and are just about the only thing I want to wear. The linen is thick and structured, while still comfortable and breathable, making these sets the perfect summer uniform. Plus, the pricing is pretty hard to beat. My love for this brand tripled when I visited their retail store in Bondi, Australia and got to experience their other products in person for the first time. So, the next time you see DISSH on your Instagram feed, don’t even hesitate. These sets are 100% worth the hype and make summer dressing simple. I’ll be a customer for life. 

Some other good options:

Heaven Mayhem Earrings 

2024 Trend: 80s-Style Jewelry

Founded by influencer Pia Mance, Heaven Mayhem gained virality this year for the 80s-inspired, vintage-looking earrings that grace the ears of every fashionable person I follow. While I wear most of my jewelry all day every day, I love to swap out my earrings for a statement pair, so Heaven Mayhem was at the top of my list to try.

I ordered the two-tone Mini Double Knot Earrings because I’ve been wanting to incorporate more silver metals into my collection, and these have been my most-worn earrings of 2024 by far. The design is hollow, so they aren’t too heavy, and they have yet to irritate my semi-sensitive ears. They complete every outfit and give me that coveted I-dug-through-trays-at-a-thrift-store look without the effort of the hunt. The brand also offers trendy belts that are most definitely on my list to try next.  

Some other good options:

House of CB Samaria Corset Drop Waist Dress

2024 Trend: Drop-Waist Dresses

Before you judge this dress from the product page, I encourage you to watch this TikTok of Sara Walker. Her original video went viral and this dress was dubbed the perfect wedding guest dress. Featuring a super flattering and on-trend drop-waist silhouette at an affordable price point, I obviously had to see if this dress lived up to the buzz.

To preface my review, I was blessed/cursed with a larger chest. I was excited to see that House of CB offers different cup sizes for the bodice of the dress, and while the dress technically fit me, I’m not sure that I’d feel comfortable wearing it to a wedding if you know what I mean. However, I’ve had multiple friends wear this dress and look drop dead gorgeous, so it’s definitely worth a try. I loved the style and ended up purchasing a similar dress from Staud that passed the chest test and helped scratch the itch for this trend. 

Some other good options:

Anthropologie Brigitte Satchel by Melie Bianco

2024 Trend: Hobo Bags

It’s pretty rare when a dupe gains more traction than the original, but because of the price, this Melie Bianco purse flew off the shelves after the first launch and onto the shoulders of just about everyone I know. Inspired by the design of the Bottega Jodie bag, The Brigitte Satchel by Melie Bianco is a high-quality, well-made bag, without the designer upcharge.

The Intrecciato is very comparable to a legit Bottega bag, as well, with the primary difference between the two bags being that the Melie Bianco version is not as sturdy—but I almost prefer the slouchiness! Plus, the best thing about a lower-priced bag is that you can opt for a fun color, rather than stressing out over choosing a classic color that you won’t grow tired of. It also comes in three sizes: mini, midsize, and oversized (the oversized would be a super chic work bag!). If you’ve been wanting to hop on the Hobo bag trend, this is a great budget-friendly option with an even better cost-per-wear, as it’ll become your new go-to catch-all bag.

Some other good options:

Tiffany Elsa Peretti® Small Bone Cuff

2024 Trend: Silver Jewelry

Silver jewelry is having a resurgence in 2024, and arguably the most popular piece of silver jewelry right now is the Elsa Peretti Small Bone Cuff from Tiffany & Co. Spotted on the wrists of every trendsetter around LA, this cuff is by no means new to the scene. It’s a classic that’s making a comeback. When I went home for Christmas, my mom was cleaning out her jewelry drawer and I could not believe my luck as she pulled out her old, scratched up Bone Cuff. She generously lent it to me, and I’m unsure if she will ever get it back.

This piece adds the perfect edge to any look and is definitely a conversation starting piece. The Tiffany cuff obviously comes with a pretty large price tag, but there are plenty of available secondhand options on sites like The RealReal, and of course, plenty of dupes. However, its enduring popularity is proof that this cuff stands the test of time, and investing in the real deal might pay off years from now when your daughter asks to borrow (steals) it from you. If you’re considering pulling the trigger on the Bone Cuff, I would recommend trying it on in-store before purchasing. Ensuring the size is right will determine how comfortable it is, and for the price, you want it to feel perfect.

Some other good options: