8 Trends That Are (and Aren't) Worth the Hype, According to Me

Fashion is highly subjective. I'm well aware of the fact that my co-workers here at Who What Wear have varying takes on the trends of the moment, and that's more than okay—it's encouraged! With that in mind, I decided to pull together a list of my favorite and not-so-favorite trends du jour. If your go-to look happens to fall on the wrong side of my list, fret not, because everyone should stick to what they feel best in.
Below, I've rounded up eight trends that are and aren't worth the hype, according solely to me. The roundup includes trends covering several categories, including shoes, skirts, and colors. Scroll down to shop the trends I think are worth your hard-earned money.
Not Worth the Hype: Mesh Flats
Don't get me wrong: I think mesh flats look super cool on some people. But to me, the trend feels a bit superfluous—not to mention cold! Why wear mesh flats when you can invest in a much more classic pair of ballet or Mary Jane flats?
Worth the Hype: Mary Jane Flats
Mary Janes have never been out of style, but right now they're surging in popularity. I'm copying Nnenna, pictured above, and styling them with socks and leggings this winter.
Not Worth the Hype: Red Tights
Red tights are hugely popular right now, but I personally won't be jumping on board. I prefer to invest my money in classic black tights, either in opaque or sheer fabrics. They're sure to have more longevity than red tights.
Worth the Hype: Red Sweaters
Red sweaters will never go out of style. Whether you choose to incorporate a pop of red into your outfit or wear the hue from head to toe, you can't go wrong with a beautiful crimson sweater.
Not Worth the Hype: Stiletto Boots
Maybe it's the fact that I'm 5'10", but I've never understood the appeal of stiletto boots. I gravitate toward conifer styles, such as block-heel or flat boots instead.
Worth the Hype: Moto Boots
The antithesis of stiletto boots? Moto boots. They're ready to rumble even if you can't tell your Harleys from your Ducatis.
Not Worth the Hype: Hot Pants
"Pants" might be in the name, but hot pants are their own breed. They're actually underwear disguised as outerwear, which is a trend many people can totally pull off—I just don't think I'm one of them.
Worth the Hype: Circle Skirts
On the opposite end of the spectrum from hot pants, circle skirts are right up my alley. The A-line silhouette is classic and sure to earn you compliments.

Erin got her start as a Who What Wear intern in 2011—back when the site only published a single story per day. (We have since increased that number twentyfold.) She graduated magna cum laude from USC and lives in Los Angeles. In college, she also interned at Refinery29, where she was promoted to editorial assistant and then assistant editor. After nearly three years at R29, she came back to WWW in 2015, where she is now the Associate Director of Fashion News. From the Oscars to the Met Gala, she leads the site's entire red carpet coverage strategy. She specializes in celebrity and fashion news but also enjoys writing travel features and runway reports. She frequently contributes to WWW's social accounts and has a sizable following on her personal TikTok.
-
What to Buy for Fall If You Don't Want to Regret It Next Year (or the Year After)
Investments only.
-
Believe Me—You'll Still Want These 36 Items in 2026 (and '27 and '28)
Timeless with a capital T.
-
All the Chicest Mother's Day Gift Ideas Every Mom Will Cherish
From pretty perfume to suede sneakers.
-
My Word of 2025 Is "Sophisticated," and These 34 Pieces Are the Definition
Think structured bags, hourglass shapes, and classic tailoring.
-
Treating Yourself? What to Buy From the New Designer Collections Before They Sell Out
I'm kind of a pro at this.
-
I'm Refining My Wardrobe—36 Staples I'm Eyeing for 2025
Polished is the word.
-
Prepare Your Wallet: 10 Jewelry Brands Running Deep Discounts for Cyber Monday
Snag that tennis bracelet for 40% off.
-
Chanel's Loafers Are the Ultimate Luxury—Here's Why the Fashion Set Think They're Worth It
The dream.