The GTBank Fashion Weekend just wrapped up, and trust me, it was nothing short of a style odyssey. As a fashion stylist who thrives on discovering the latest trends, hacks, and tips, this two-day fashion extravaganza was everything I’d dreamed of and more! The weekend was a high-energy mix of cutting-edge looks, thought-provoking panels, and the absolute who's-who of the fashion world. Let me take you through the experience, moment by moment, trend by trend, and (of course) a few hacks to spice up your own styling game.

Day 1: Arriving at Fashion Wonderland

I started Day 1 with my schedule mapped out and my phone ready for instant Instagram stories and TikTok snippets. Walking through those GTBank Fashion Weekend doors, I immediately felt the creative energy. The setup was 'aesthetic goals', with fashion installations everywhere – a dream backdrop for content creation.

The morning’s highlight? The first masterclass, where we delved into "Incubating Fashion Talent: Nurturing the Next Gen of Style Icons" by Lulu Kennedy (Fashion Editor). It was a whole vibe at GTBank Fashion Weekend, where the energy buzzed with future fashion icons on a mission to disrupt the scene. The event wasn’t just about runway shows; it was a breeding ground for talent, with everything from design labs to styling sessions that gave young creatives a platform to be seen, heard, and celebrated.

In a world where trends change faster than you can say “Y2K,” the next generation of designers, stylists, and influencers needs more than just skill—they need community, guidance, and a solid support network. And GTBank didn’t disappoint. By providing a blend of hands-on experiences and industry knowledge, the event acted as a launchpad, empowering budding creatives to dream big and shake up the fashion world. Whether it was through the masterclass sessions or stage presentation, you could feel the passion and purpose in the air.

If you’re thinking of jumping into the fashion world, remember that talent alone isn’t enough. Seek out spaces that uplift and support—you might just find your creative home. 

The speaker also brought up game-changing points on rethinking fashion waste, and my head was spinning with ideas for styling hacks that embrace sustainability.

Trend Alert: Maximalism is Back

From statement earrings to neon puffer jackets, the message was clear: more is more! This was the year of boldness. I quickly realized that 2024 fashion is embracing the "bigger, better, bolder" mantra. Whether you’re dressing up a simple outfit with a loud accessory or going head-to-toe in print, "maximalism" was the name of the game.

Styling Hack #1: Layer Your Accessories

One trick I loved from the session? Layering contrasting accessories. Think chunky rings paired with a sleek watch, or multiple necklaces stacked over a turtleneck. It’s a surefire way to elevate even the simplest looks.

The second masterclass, was on Style, Influence, and Everything in Between: Curating Your Online World by Patricia  Bright (Fashion Influencer)

Let's talk real talk—building your fashion brand online is like curating your own reality show, but with fewer plot twists and more aesthetic shots. Style and influence go hand in hand, and this year's GTBank Fashion Weekend had every ingredient you need to take your personal brand from "just starting" to "viral sensation."

From DIYs on mastering TikTok trends to tips on creating viral Reels, it was all about finding your unique voice. Fashion’s digital world is competitive, so the question is: how do you stand out? The answer? Be unapologetically you. Highlight your personal style quirks, your go-to hacks, and those unique perspectives that make your feed pop. Gone are the days of perfect grid feeds—Gen Z craves authenticity. It’s all about showing up in your messy, fun, stylish self while giving value, spilling tips, and creating a vibe that’s so you.

And here’s a nugget for every budding influencer: consistency is key, but creativity is what gets you followers. So, if you’re ready to go viral, start brainstorming that new style concept, post those DIYs, and don’t be afraid to experiment with trends.

Day 2: Learning from the Pros

With an eye-catching outfit and a mind buzzing with ideas, I started Day 2 at the panel discussions – I couldn't wait to hear from industry leaders about what’s next in fashion.

Iconic Hair Styling: The Secret Sauce to Your Signature Look by Ted Gibson (Hair Professional)

If there’s one thing that caught everyone’s attention at GTBank Fashion Weekend, it was the hair. We’re talking iconic looks that ranged from retro ’90s updos to futuristic bobs with a twist. The lesson here? Your hair can be the ultimate accessory—it has the power to define, elevate, and even shift your entire look.

Ever heard of "haircore"? It’s all about hair as a lifestyle choice. And Gen Z is leading the charge, with everyone from influencers to everyday stylists experimenting with textures, colors, and cuts that redefine what’s “in.” At the event, the hairstyling sessions gave us a behind-the-scenes look at how to transform any look with the right styling tricks. Whether it’s a slick back, a playful fringe, or that effortless beachy wave, iconic hair styling is about owning your aesthetic and letting your personality shine through.

If you’re looking to try something new, now’s the time. With so many ways to play with styles and shapes, why not make your hair your canvas?

A key takeaway? 'Personalization' is set to be huge. The idea that “style is unique to everyone” kept popping up, with designers urging us to break out of comfort zones and use fashion as a true form of self-expression.

Trending Now: The 70s Revival

The 70s are back, baby! Think flared pants, bold prints, and earthy tones. I saw a lot of influence from this iconic decade, mixed with modern twists. As someone who loves blending eras, I was thrilled by the ways this throwback trend could be made fresh and personal.

Styling Hack #2: Mix Decades, Don’t Match Them

You don’t need to commit to just one era – pairing a 70s-inspired printed blouse with 90s denim gives your outfit a fresh twist. Fashion is about 'creative clashes' right now, and the GTBank Fashion Weekend made that clear.

Content Creation Hacks from a Stylist

One of the best parts of attending an event like this is creating engaging, high-impact content. Here’s how I kept my followers hooked all weekend:

1. Real-Time Storytelling: I posted regular updates of each look, each panel, each moment. People love feeling like they’re there with you.

2. Behind-the-Scenes Moments: Fashion events have so many behind-the-scenes gems, and showing these exclusive glimpses had my followers eating it up!

3. Quick Style Tutorials: After every panel, I shared a quick styling tip, inspired by the trends discussed. These bite-sized fashion hacks were a hit!

The People: Fashion’s Finest and Friendliest

It’s not a true fashion event without rubbing elbows with creatives, designers, influencers, and fellow stylists. I met industry veterans and up-and-coming designers, each one offering fresh perspectives on fashion’s future. The networking energy was contagious, and by the end of the weekend, I had a few exciting new projects lined up (stay tuned!).

Key Takeaways: Fashion Forecast for 2024

Looking ahead, the GTBank Fashion Weekend left me with a clear idea of what to expect in fashion over the coming months. Here are three of the biggest takeaways:

1. Sustainability is Not a Trend – It’s the Future: Sustainable practices were a major focus this year, and it’s clear that they’re here to stay.

2. Bold Prints and Maximalism: Forget about blending in – 2024 is all about standing out.

3. Revival of Past Decades with a Twist: We’ll be mixing our favorite eras in unexpected ways, blending old and new for a truly unique style.

Final Thoughts

GTBank Fashion Weekend was an experience I won’t soon forget. From networking with industry legends to spotting new trends, every moment was a masterclass in creativity. For all the fashion lovers out there, my advice? Don’t be afraid to experiment and embrace bold, unique choices.

Until next year, GTBank Fashion Weekend! I’ll be watching for what’s next, ready to share the hottest trends, tips, and hacks to keep you ahead of the curve.