Back To The Future

CEBU, Philippines - If there’s one thing that drives people nuts, it’s having to think and worry about the future. Admit it, we work  hard today because we worry about making sure we get things right tomorrow. In fact, so much of literature is dedicated towards our perceptions of what the future will be like and whenever we do write or try to depict the future, it’s always the sci-fi kind of future that comes to mind.

The start of a new decade brings to the forefront an overdose of sci-fi chic minus the gadgets and the light sabers. Instead, we weave in threads of a futuristic environment—minimalistic, streamlined, the cities of 2100. We’re talking about evolutionary environments and dystopia as they would put it. 

This decade’s futuristic interpretations will take us on a walkthrough from the 1960s concept of what the future is, to more advanced and rather weird concepts of today. Futuristic fashion isn’t just limited to the staple raised collars and metallic sheens. It can span from playful to fierce in a split second. Take inspiration from the works of Louise Goldin, Alexander McQueen, and Julien MacDonald before you step into the time machine, otherwise you might end up looking like Darth Vader—a look you wouldn’t want to capture unless you’re in for an award at a Star Wars theme party.

For the fashion neophyte on a quest to bag this avenue, a good first step would be to familiarize oneself with the elements of the 2010 futuristic fashion trend. For those who are a little bit fashion shy, it pays to experiment with each element, one or two at a time, and not lump them all together into a smorgasbord of disastrous takes on the future.

Fish scales or reptile scales reminiscent of humans that have evolved from adapting to a 90 percent H2O planet is a cool take on this trend. Metallic fabrics and detailing are another classic step although you might not want to go metal from head to foot. Take it piece by piece, like pairing a metallic shirtdress with black leggings and killer heels. You can also opt for a plain black top, layer on chunky silver necklaces, and put on a pair of silvery leggings. 

Circuitry inspired patterns and robotic looking elements are another option if you want to channel a look that’s a cross between futuristic and vintage. Up the ante a little bit by donning exaggerated silhouettes like cocoon shapes (this is oh-so alien) or pointy shoulders. 

The runway interpretations may seem a little bit too spectacular with the horn hairs, the gills, and the shower of metallic eye shadow. However, drop the fancy stuff and you’ll find this look street-ready by taking it piece by piece. Accessorize with bold necklaces and glass and metallic bangles. Play up with silver and black and dabble with textures.

We don’t exactly know what the future holds. We can only keep guessing. This is about the best thing about it because as they say, the possibilities are quite endless.