The hottest viral fashion trends to try and buy for spring

Gone are the days when magazines dictated fashion trends. Now it’s all about finding your next look on social media. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram are where fashion trends are born. When something goes viral on social media, it often sells out—but just because something is popular doesn’t mean it’s always a great piece to own. To help us figure out what trends are worth the hype, style expert Mana Mansour puts four of the hottest pieces to the test to find out if they are worth the investment.

Skims Ribbed Long Slip Dress

Kim Kardashian West started Skims, a shapewear line dedicated to designing diverse undergarments, in 2018. We wanted to test the comfort level and durability of the viral slip dress that is said to feel like a second skin. In our opinion, this dress is not worth the hype. You can find so many dresses like this at more affordable price points. We love this dupe from Winners for a more wearable hem to allow you to dress it down. Accentuate the waist by layering with some cropping pieces on top and pair it with sneakers for a cute and casual look.

SHOP: Skims Soft Lounge Long Slip Dress; $125 at Holt Renfrew | Black Ribbed Dress; $29.99 available in-store at Winners | Mango Multi-Stripe Cotton Shirt; $59.99; at The Bay | Mango Aimee Chest-Pocket Boxy Shacket; $69.99 at The Bay | White sandals; $36 available in-store at Winners

Aritizia Melina Pants

Vegan leather pieces have been everywhere these past few seasons, but if there is a must-have vegan leather pant that all the girls covet, it’s the Aritzia Melina pants. Gen Zers can’t get enough of these straight-leg faux leather pants, which come in 27 colours and in short, regular and tall inseams. We love these trendy pants for the buttery soft fabric, without that fake plastic smell. The flattering fit goes with everything, plus the short length is great for Petites.

SHOP: The Melina Pant; $148 at Aritizia | Green Long-Sleeve Shacket; $99 at The Bay | Greylin Bona Collared Knit Patterned Bodysuit; $133  at The Bay | Cream Leather Handbag; $416.50 available in-store at The Bay | Good News Slip-On Sneakers; $191.25 a The Bay

Amina Muaddi Heels 

This brand has taken over the fashion and social media world. Beyonce, Rihanna, Hailey Bieber and Gigi Hadid are just some of the A-listers that have tried out pieces from Amina Muaddi. This Paris-based Romanian and Jordanian-raised designer is known for her trademark flared heel silhouette has been said to be extremely easy to wear all day, despite their height. Unfortunately, we say skip this trendy piece as they aren’t worth the price tag. Luckily because they are so popular, there are so many dupes that look super similar but are more affordable.

SHOP: Amina Muaddi Lupita Crystal & Leather Slide Sandals; $1410 at The Bay | Esmeralda High Heel Sandals; $69.99 at Call It Spring | Shailene Long Sleeve Mesh Dress; $58.80 at Nordstrom | Mango Small Textured Crossbody Bag; $49.99 at The Bay

Aerie Crossover Leggings

It all started when TikToker Hannah Schlenker posted a video in November 2020 of these Aerie Crossover leggings, aka the perfect pandemic attire. The 30-second clip went viral with over 7.8 million views, and the style started to sell out. This figure-flattering silhouette can now be found in plenty of different styles, from bike shorts to high-waist swim bottoms. We can’t get enough of these comfy leggings that deliver a smoothing effect on the mid-section. The fabric is soft and stretchy and it comes in different lengths and colours. And they aren’t just for an athleisure look—we love it with a shirtdress layered with a sleeveless trench for a structured look. Finish it with a classic flat loafer and you’ll stay comfortable and cute all day long.

SHOP: OFFLINE By Aerie Real Me High Waisted Crossover Legging; $35.97 at Aerie | Max Mara Leisure Striped Shirt Dress; $440 at Nordstrom | Sleeveless Trench Coat; $69.99 available in-store at H&M | Waist Belt; $17.99 at H&M | TOPSHOP Mini Buckle Strap Faux Leather Tote Bag; $66 at Nordstrom | Horsebit Loafers; $34.99 at H&M