Runway review: fashion trends Spring/Summer 2024

Twice a year, I review runway collections from all over the world and summarize the key trends I'm seeing on trend boards. Then I share these trends boards with you on my YouTube channel, highlighting how to turn these trends into tips and suggestions that are applicable "in a real life wardrobe". 

 

Liquid metals

This trend has evolved from nail art to clothing and even influenced the interior design world. Think metallic reflections that add a touch of glam to any outfit. Tory Burch, Ralph Lauren and Coperni have all embraced this trend with their unique takes. Whether it's a metallic dress peeking from under a blazer or a drape-y top paired with a matte bottom, there's a way to make this trend work for you even if a full look à la Prabal Gurung or à la McQueen (these fringes!!) feels like too much.

 

Masculine meets feminine

We're seeing a beautiful blend of (traditionally) masculine and (traditionally) feminine fashion codes. Imagine pairing a soft, delicate skirt with a structured blazer or trench coat. Proenza Schouler, Loewe and Prada are leading the way with this trend. It's all about balancing the light, airy fabrics with more robust, tailored, menswear-inspired pieces. And if you're feeling bold, why not try a see-through skirt layered over an opaque bottom, as shown by Carven and Dior? - probably more suited for eveningwear than for the office, but very elegant nonetheless.

 

Athletics meets Ready-to-Wear

The pandemic has undoubtedly influenced fashion, and the athletics-meets-ready-to-wear trend is a testament to that craving for casualwear - beyond the sphere of home life. This trend is about combining sporty elements with sophisticated touches, making sure you're comfortable yet chic. From tailored sweatpants-inspired pieces to sporty stripes paired with leather and heels, fashion houses like Vuitton, Gucci or Tod's are showing us how to do this trend: these ladies look sporty but no one would believe they're actually coming from the gym. Each outfit is impeccably curated to be polished, no laisser-aller here. 


Hyper-realistic flowers

Flowers for spring? Groundbreaking, I know (who recognizes this reference from a movie with Anne Hathaway?). But this season, it's all about hyper-realistic, massive floral prints that make a statement. These aren't your typical pastel florals; they're bold, artistic, and often set against solid color backgrounds. McQueen and Simone Rocha have created stunning dresses that are true works of art. These soft pink roses seem so alive that they could fall off the dress at any moment. And if you're feeling creative, why not paint a similar flower on a denim jacket you already own? It's a great way to personalize your wardrobe.


Tiny shorts

When I say tiny, I mean it! These shorts could almost be mistaken for knickers. Chanel, Dries Van Noten and Gucci are all showcasing this daring look in casual versions, while Prada is going for smarter fabrics and a high-waist cut. While it might not be practical for every occasion, you can always layer a see-through skirt over the shorts for added coverage. It's a fresh, new look that we haven't seen in previous decades - no this isn't like sweatpants - making it an exciting trend to experiment with if you feel it could be integrated to your existing wardrobe. 

 

Free PDF guide to get timeless style in 7 steps

 

Looking back at these boards, I feel there is a conscious move towards comfort in recent seasons. And while some of these trends might not be timeless, there are options in there for you, if you wish to build a wardrobe that reflects a more timeless style: download this free resource to learn more.  

 

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