words by CELINE AZENA
graphics by ARIANA DOMINGUEZ

As winter slowly comes to an end and spring and summer approach, fashion connoisseurs are already planning their new looks. The hunt for the newest fad, trend and ever evolving theme of the season. Some of the most prominent trends at Spring/Summer 2024 fashion week were light colorways and abstract silhouettes. How they translate into the everyday wardrobe is yet to be determined. Although over time they may change, and the likes and dislikes of Gen Z change swiftly these days. It will be interesting to see what will withstand time and what trends will simply fall flat. After numerous internet typing and social media swiping, I’ve collected eight trends we’re sure to see this coming season. The question is what trend will you take part in?

Western Rodeo

It’s safe to say that in 2024 the western trend has turned heads once more. Although this is nothing new to the fashion world it’s interesting to see how the western look has evolved over the last three years. In pop-culture many are strutting their equestrian style, rodeo get ups and everything adjacent on social media like Bella Hadid. Beyonce also announced the release of her ACT II album dedicated to country lovers (and haters) everywhere, promoting the album through custom looks among those are Givenchy, Versace, and Dolce & Gabbana. We saw glimpses of the Western theme this fall/winter included in Louis Vuitton’s menswear show, and Stella McCartney influences of the western trend was prominent among the styles that walked the runway. I’m interested to see how the Western style will continue to grow and play a role not only in the coming Spring season, but months from now.

BalletCore 

Although Ballet style and accentuated fashion is nothing new to us, the introduction of Ballet-core is predicted to see a comeback this Spring. The duality of femininity allows us to tap into a light playful wardrobe. First appeared last season through coquette and cottage core silhouettes prominent in many designers’ spring collections. Among them Sandy Liang, Simone Rocha, Miu Miu and brands such as Belle The Label, Jaded London and Paloma Wool. Incorporating mesh, lace detailing, bows, and soft color palettes, there’s a comfort to this trend. A combination of athleisure, loungewear and structure that allows this trend to flourish.

See through me

In recent years, sheer dressing has become increasingly popular among fashionistas and celebrities alike. Sheer, seamless dressing has seen its time with icon’s such as Cher, Madonna and Kate Moss pushing the boundaries of societal norm. Not only has this bold style choice been seen on the runway, but also on the style influencers of this generation. Like Kendall Jenner, Jennifer Lawrence, Rihanna, Florence Pugh just to name a few. Brands including Victoria Beckham, Alaia, Acne Studio, Prada, and Simone Rocha have incorporated transparency during the Spring/Summer 24 season. It goes without saying that this trend continues to evolve as stylists, influencers, and celebrities discover new ways to incorporate sheer dressing into their wardrobes.

No Pants No Problem

Whether it’s miniskirts, mini shorts, mini dresses, it’s safe to say the no pants trend is in full bloom (you see what I did there). The feeling of swapping a pair of pants for boxers or very tiny bottoms is liberating. Social boundaries are seemingly pushed by this style, making it so influential. The micro trend hit the runway among designers such as Miu Miu, Ferragamo, Bottega Veneta, and Gucci. Described by many as a boost of inner confidence, it’s no surprise that we’re beginning to see this trend on and off the catwalk. The very tiny substitutes seen on the street were worn by the likes of Kristen Stewart, Sydney Sweeney and Kendall Jenner. Although I haven’t tried it myself, I’m curious to see what the tiny trend is all about.

The Royal Effect

The Regal Royal trend as I’d like to call it, is reminiscent of Victorian silhouettes with a modern twist. Heavily influenced by Lady Diana, this trend hit the runway with brands such as Simone Rocha, Altuzarra, Richard Quinn and Vivienne Westwood showcasing their take on regal romance. The structure of each silhouette embodies an elegance that matches that of royal stature. The romanticism of each look tells an individual story, an over exaggerated bodice, elegant lace, a tight corset or detailed beading. As we continue to go through the seasons, it will be interesting to see if these styles will stay the same or continue to evolve.

Flats for Days

Long gone are the days of the daily pump. The influence of ballet-core has shifted into everyday footwear. Flats, like many shoe styles, are an adaptation of a style that we’ve seen before. However, brands are taking the everyday flat to a sophisticated level, incorporating netting, embellishments and hardware. A compromise to the office kitten heel, flats bring comfortability and practicality to the daily wardrobe. Brands reimagining the everyday flat include mesh (Alaia), edgy hardware (Ganni), classic (Miu Miu), tabi (Maison Margiela), and square toe (Jacquemus). The question remains which flat will you be rocking this coming spring season?

Work-wear Chic! 

The ever-transformative work attire has officially entered the chat. Following the end of the pandemic we’ve seen a shift in the typical office uniform. The evolution of business casual is nothing new to the fashion world. Miranda Priestly would have a thing to say about the comfort aspect of the everyday wardrobe. I however embrace it thoroughly, the addition of athleisure, loungewear paired with an elevated piece makes that much of a difference. A crewneck, fitted blazer, oversized tailored pants, and button-down shirt to mesh it all together. With the likes of celebrities such as Hailey Biber, Alexia Demie, Kendall Jenner and Emily Ratajkowski embracing the work-wear style. Prada, Miu Miu, Shu Shu Tong, and Jacquemus all incorporated elevated business casual into their runway shows. Reimaging what the new age office uniform looks like through the lens of casual, comfort and commuting.

The Bigger the Bag

She’s got the bag; he’s got the baggage. Whether you are running errands, walking your dog, or storing all your prized positions, the oversized bag is a great option for the everyday routine. The bag is big and then some…  reminiscent of Jane Birkin’s overstuffed Birkin. It’s no surprise that we’re seeing more designs of oversized bags on the runway. Bottega Veneta, Ferragamo, Coach and Miu Miu among the designers to showcase styles for the desired spring accessory. As someone who packs for the unexpected, this is a staple piece in my everyday wardrobe, I don’t foresee this trend dying out anytime soon. I am however interested to see the new styles designers will push this coming season.