Christy Bucklow brings you the latest trend analysis, right from the catwalk into your wardrobe.
Hello sunshine! The summer months are all about feel good fashion. We dress to impress in the sun, making ourselves feel good by looking great. Clothes to party in, clothes to lounge on warm grass in, and in a more realistic and far less romantic world, clothes to avoid feeling like you’re a walking sweat patch. Pastel hues have been trending on this year’s S/S runways; but lemon sorbets and mint choc chips may be easier to style than you initially think. The love for co-ords is still going strong and grows every day, so looking like a gelato snack requires minimum effort and will have everyone else melting around you. The flames of passion with our bit on the side haven’t died down either: polka dots are still in and they are cuter than ever.
During a pretty miserable year of politics, designers seem to have dealt with it the only way they know how: we can now at the very least dress ourselves happy. Button detailing seems to be everywhere, providing smatterings of cute decoration down otherwise simple summer dresses and camis. This low-key look goes perfectly with some OTT earrings paired with a little-to-no effort low pony, leaving some relaxed curls around the face for an ethereal look. It’s hot so accessorise accordingly.
If you’re one to shy away from the simple, no fear, people are still crazy for prints. Gingham and checks were hugely popular during A/W17 and are set to remain in the limelight this summer, but with new twists and takes. Burberry reinvented its classic check print on everything from their famous trench coats to caps and backpacks. Meanwhile, other designers such as Sonia Rykiel opted for brightly coloured, girly gingham and shopper-bag checks. Lighter renditions of winter patterns make checks a stylish summer choice, particularly for chic crop tops paired with some wide leg culottes and a tailored blazer.
Evening glam seems to be where you can really let loose this summer. Tassels, sequins and feathers have all made brazen appearances on the catwalk, and of course at Coachella. With beautiful bold colours such as tomato reds and ultra violets making for drastic comparisons to our daytime romantic lavenders and sky blues, it’s too easy to come to the conclusion that life is too short to wear boring clothes (especially after a couple of cocktails in the heat). Sheer clothing is a great way to be a bit more daring if you’re not ready to venture as far as tassels and fathers – the latest looks from Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi and Calvin Klein all include some sheer pieces which look super sultry when layered with some pretty lingerie. Sheer tops especially make for a classy evening dinner look when partnered with a cute bralet, a pair of tailored trousers and heels.
The run up to summer also introduces our favourite pastime: shoe watch. Girly brogues and delicate jewelled sandals seemed to be a recurring appearance on the Miu Miu catwalk, whereas designers such as Alexander McQueen opted to go more in the direction of biker chic, showcasing chunky embellished boots with buckles. High street brands such as Topshop have a large selection of brightly coloured chunky sandals, many of which are reminiscent of some of last year’s sell-out designs. Our trend forecast ensures that your style will remain chic from top to toe all throughout this year’s summer, and, just remember, it’s never too early to start shopping.