As a new season rolls in, fashion once again dominates the headlines with news of innovative styles and fresh trends. For years, from the runway to the streets, fashion has been a popular medium for classy self-expression, and this summer will be different. Here’s what fashionistas need to look out for in the upcoming season, laid out in twelve up-and-coming trends.
1. Pale Palette
This season designers have painted the fashion scene in subtle hues. Military green, head-to-toe white, and light pastels are in vogue – think cotton candy pink, lime green, and lavender. And for the rebels, there’s always electric yellow – a favorite for warm weather.
2. Gingham Patterns
Seemingly made right out of your picnic tablecloth, gingham patterns are dominating the runway. Coupled with soft hues and minimalistic en plein air themes, ginghams adorn blazers, shirtdresses, and pants on catwalks across the world.
3. Retro Style
Prepare to be hit bya wave of nostalgia with bold styles straight from the ‘70s. Retro and thrift-shopped bell-bottoms and long bohemian maxis with distinctive color arrangements and deluxe denim create an unforgettable hippie look.
4. Fringes and Frills
Fringes, tassels, feathers, and ruffles entered the fashion world with flair.These delicate details breathe life into stiff materials, enhancing movement in rich fabrics. Without these lively add-ons, your summer dress may as well be last year’s.
5. Androgynous Design
Fighting for equal rights in a world of men, women announced their freedom from gender constraints with sartorial panache. Androgynous couture including polo shirts, militaristic jackets, khaki or army fabric shorts, and tight white tank tops is a must-have for both sexes this upcoming season.
6. Asian Elements
With Eastern fashion popularizing in the past decade, its influence on Western trends has been growing – but no trends have had as much impact as this year’s Japanese craze. Kimono imitations with wide obi belts, traditional Japanese patterns, robe-like dresses, and blue and white color schemes showcase the trademark style of Japan.
7. Waist Definers
Crop tops and waist belts that flatter the wearer are all the rage now. Tie-waisted tops with lady-like skirts have become increasingly popular and petite cutouts near the waist also add a bold, contemporary touch.
8. Unconventional Skirts
Pencils and minis will be making a comeback this year, but not in the way you’d think. In the spirit of street style, layer a skirt atop a maxi, dress, or even pants; the symmetrical hems will invigorate your wardrobe.
9. Languid Elegance
Light, draping coats and gauzy dresses dipped in minimal hues have never been more aesthetic. While tight-fitting blazers and sleek skirts have their own appeal, they can never compare to the flutter of chiffon, reminiscent of a summer breeze.
10. Sporty Chic
Hints of sportswear are slowly but surely coming to light in couture, with many avant-garde designers adopting this unique form of athletic inspired fashion. Consider adding racing stripes, drawstrings, and thick zippers to your closet.
11. Floral Motifs
To no one’s surprise, floral prints, 3D blossom appliques, and flowery lace are in full bloom this season. This universally loved print has been a favorite for decades, ranging from sensuously opulent to minimalistic and bold and flourishing from the runways to the streets.
12. Classic Accessories
We all know an outfit isn’t complete without the finishing touches of statement accessories, and you’ll be glad to hear a few timeless trinkets are making their comeback. A few must-haves this summer include classic oversized sunglasses, gladiator sandals, hoop earrings, and chunky pendants.
This article originally appeared in the May/June 2015 issue of UNIT-E. It was written by Angela Liu, a student at the International School of Beijing.
About UNIT-E
UNIT-E was founded in the spring of 2010 with the aim of establishing a non-profit, student-run magazine for international students in Beijing. Staffed by current students from a range of international schools, the magazine provides an amalgam of cultural tidbits, fragments of Beijing student life, and a broad spectrum of unique perspectives from a diverse group of young adults.
Photos: Swong95765 & Korea.net (Flickr)
