Today’s article comes to us from Carson Love, a Nashville fashion stylist and wardrobe consultant who helps clients find their own unique style and encourages them to be unapologetically authentic.
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I typically use the rule of three when spotting trends — it must be seen in separate runway shows at least three times to qualify as a trend. I also love researching different outlets and reports to see what trends will hold the strongest presence. Don’t worry; I’ve done the homework for you, and I’m here with a round-up of some of this year’s most noteworthy spring fashion trends.
While I believe trends are essential to culture, I want to add a disclaimer that not every trend is for everyone. They constantly come and go, so don’t fret if there aren’t any that catch your eye this season! There’s always a fresh batch right around the corner. This article isn’t meant to add any pressure but rather to offer up some fashionable “Cliff’s Notes” so you can do some trend-spotting of your own. Let’s dive in!
1. ’90s Minimalism
A new wave of ’90s aesthetics has been an overarching trend for the last couple of years, and it isn’t leaving anytime soon. In particular, the understated, lived-in aesthetic — à la Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. Maybe it’s no coincidence that this year marks the 25th anniversary of her passing.
I love how Vogue summed it up in the title of its article, “The Vibe of the Spring/Summer 2024 Season: Dressing Like a ‘90s Paparazzi Photo.” This trend comprises elements like clean tailoring, trousers and oversized blazers, neutral knits, and button-ups. It’s giving “Julia Roberts in a feel-good ‘90s rom-com.”
Quick tip: When you’re styling any look, balancing is key. If an oversized blazer and wide-leg trousers overwhelm your frame, try pairing one piece with a more fitted silhouette.
2. Metallics
Unlike many spring seasons where bright colors trend, the popular palette on the spring 2024 runways was bronze, gold, and silver. Could the upcoming Olympic games have brought inspiration to designers?
This trend was particularly noticeable at the recent Golden Globes red carpet. Quinton Brunson in Balmain, Naomi Watts in Fendi, America Ferrera in Dolce & Gabbana … those are just a few of the starlets who dazzled in head-to-toe metallic that night.
Quick tip: Don’t feel like you have to attend an awards show in a formal gown to partake in this shimmering trend. Try subtly injecting it into your spring wardrobe, such as with a small handbag or fun shoe.
3. Roses
“Florals? For spring? Groundbreaking.” When you hear the words “roses” and “spring” in the same sentence, do you immediately think of Miranda’s snarky quote from The Devil Wears Prada? Well, these florals for spring are actually groundbreaking.
The symbolic rose was spotted all over the runways in striking ways: 3D appliqués, oversized prints, and even fresh-cut stems carried by models at the Simone Rocha show. I’ve already started to see giant rose appliqués on everything from dresses to swimwear. A fun and easy way to try this trend would be Carrie Bradshaw-style, with a big rose pin secured to a blazer or blouse!
4. Notable Lengths: Short Shorts & Capri Pants
Two lengths that seemed to jump out on the runways were micro-mini shorts (and skirts) and retro-style capris (hitting around mid-calf). Don’t think classic Daisy Dukes! These short hemlines were styled in a more elevated way, with menswear-inspired suits or monochromatic sets.
It’s uncommon to see pendulum swings in fashion trends, so the capri-length pants aren’t too surprising when you think of all the wide-leg trousers and flares that have been so popular over the last year. Time to channel your grandmother’s peddle pushers!
A note on the overall trends for spring 2024.
Although spring fashion typically brings visions of bright colors and poppy patterns, this year’s overarching theme is far more muted. Even at awards shows, black and white seems to rule, with only subtle pops of shades like “butter” and icy blue. Could this be a reflection of the current economic and global backdrop?
Perhaps designers are craving a sense of calm and serenity during this time. Trends can offer an interesting prompt to think about the present —we can see the ripples in society’s waters carrying over into the fashion industry. I like to think of fashion as history’s visual postcard.
Whether or not you participate in this spring’s trends by incorporating them into your wardrobe, I hope you do some trend-spotting while shopping retailers or even spotting great ensembles on the streets!
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