[EDITOR'S NOTE! Each year since forever, I've polled an annual selection of Portland's fashion-related industry insiders to get their takes on the best and worst of the past year, from trends to cultural moments, local and well beyond. I'll be spotlighting some of those responses on the blog, look out for an edited version in an upcoming issue of the Merc. First up: Photographer/Art Director Christine Taylor!]

The one thing I am most inspired by this year is the rise of Afro-punk and African fashions. It's not new, but it's definitely on the rise, and it makes me very happy just looking at the color and print combinations. It's always unique, I always want more, and never get bored! @Afropunk and @Africaninspiredshow are two of my favorites on Instagram.

I am super into "lady loafers"—meaning a newly designed version of those chunky 2" heels your grandma used to wear in the 1960s and '70s. I also can't get enough of flat boots. I want to come clean and say that I am completely over ugly, huge 5"-plus heels for women (though I do wear a pair). On the other hand, I am still totally into them for men! I am also totally into huge ugly brightly colored sneakers… What does this mean?

I'm also grappling with the wide legged denim pant. It's just not flattering on most body types—even extra thin ones. It doesn't move with the body, it's constricting, and looks like it. It can totally work on women with extra long, thin legs, but if you're anyone under 5'8" and with some thigh, you should pair them up with a 4" heel to avoid looking more stout that you actually are. Of course, what woman wants to wear heels that high who actually does anything during her day? Not practical, and not practical translates into a hassle, which translates into boring in my book. Anything you're uncomfortable in will show in your personality and your body.

I'm digging higher waists, oversized everything, clothing for women that is for women who don't want to be objects, extra long sleeves and extra big cuffs, and the movable fabrics we are seeing in everything from pants to gowns. Designers are starting to listening more to what women want, then helping by making it look absolutely fabulous. We want to move our bodies, and we want a closet that lasts.