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A few warm days in May and June, and we’re thinking about already. The shows for this season happened last September, and now that we’ve had time to metabolize them, as well as the television, film, , and culture that influence clothes, are coming into view.
It’s always potentially scary when old things come back in style. We were just recently swearing to never repeat our past sins of business casual at the club and capris, only for them to look oh-so-tempting again.
But that’s how we live in harmony. We fall in love with things, then betray them, then want them back. We never learn, and that’s beautiful. But there’s something interesting looming in the air. Fashion writer Alexandra Hildreth reported on this last fall, but now. Maybe because the video essay is a format at our fingertips, maybe because there is so much fashion everywhere. Influencers have to stand out from each other, and the only way to do that is to have an opinion, according to the myriad of people she spoke to for the story.
One such common opinion these days is the anti-trend. have always been optional to participate in, and they kind of have to be if you want a wardrobe you actually like. But trend seems to have become a bad word, something cheap, inauthentic, and untrustworthy. And in a sea of cores and aesthetics often arising, not from an actual trend, but from TikTok users’ desire to coin a new trend or phrase, I can see where the distrust comes from.
In a TikTok interview, Fashion Magazine asked model Alex Consani about one trend she hates, and she said, “I don’t really hate any trend, no shade, but I hate when people feel like a trend has to be done. Like, live your truth. If you wanna wear what you wanna wear, do what you wanna do, do it because you wanna do it.” And that exact attitude toward fashion is in the drinking water. It’s pervasive. The big bad voices of fashion are pushing back on the feeling that are imposed onto us, and inviting the notion that trends are up to us.
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Pit Crew
Ten years ago, it was the motorcycle jacket, and now it’s the racer jacket. Every cool straight woman I know is obsessed with F1, and every cool gay woman I know is obsessed with Ethel Cain, who dresses in NASCAR t-shirts and camo on stage every other night. Basically, this trend was destined to happen, and I’m honestly just shocked it’s taken so long.
Urban Outfitters Jordan Cropped Moto Vest
Moto jackets are all the rave right now, but put a slight twist on this trend and the result? This . You’ve got to love the mock neck and cropped fit on this gem. Pair it with low-rise bottoms and you’ve got yourself a very on-trend OOTD.Blanc Noir Claudine Leather Racer Jacket
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This is 100 percent calfskin and has a two-way front zip. This one is quite fitted for those who prefer a less slouchy option, but if you like the colorblocking, you can just size up.BDG Suki Racer Moto Denim Micro Mini Skirt
In case you’re F1-pilled, but can’t wear leather in the summer. There’s something so Herbie Fully Loaded, “Shut Up And Drive” about this. -
Tied With a Bow
Femininity was laced into a lot of the 2023 fashion trends (we’re looking at you girlcore) and this year there is no slowing down. Expect to see even more ribbons and bows on dresses, pants, and tops this year. The dainty addition creates a romantic look that can be worn to weddings, special date nights, and cocktail parties.
If you’re looking for an easy, everyday way to wear bow embellishments, is the answer. It’s similar to simpler styles you’d pair with everyday jeans and skirts but includes a woven ribbon detail that ties into bows at the ends. Very balletcore!
Prepare to make a statement with this
, which is highly rated on Amazon and comes in five different colors. While similar designer options will cost you upwards of $100, this jaw-dropping alternative is currently just $40.The more bows the better — especially in the case of . Given its sweet yet sophisticated appearance, it’s the perfect look to have on hand ahead of all your spring and summer events, including weddings and celebratory dinners.
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Sheer Genius
Every so often, a trend from a singular show will spark a wave full of similar styles. In this case, the trend in question is sheer and the trendsetter is Fendi’s Fall/Winter 2022 collection. The Fendi collection debuted back in February but its influence was fully felt last week in New York City. It’s no longer taboo to have undergarments show through your frock—in fact, it’s preferred. Almost every major collection on the NYFW runways incorporated completely see-through garments. Tory Burch provided a masterclass in realistically wearable sheer with strategic layering while designers like Kim Shui took the opportunity to bare all.
While many of the sheer pieces would be suitable for street style statements or a night in a dimly lit room, Jason Wu gave us multiple examples of sheer design in formal wear. The designer sent a strong variety of sheer gowns down the runway in floral, sparkly, lace, and jewel tones (to name a few). In a backstage interview with Jason Wu minutes before his show, he said, “Of course, there’s always going to be dreamy gowns but you might see a sexy side of Jason Wu that you may not be so familiar with—but get used to it.”
Most are wearing sheer dresses and tops, but I love the idea of throwing on a sheer top as a beach coverup, like how the model above styled .
This blends both the sheer trend and the bow (coquette) trend together. If you’re trying to be a Sandy girlie (that is, Sandy Liang, of course), but with a cheeky twist, add this dress to cart ASAP.
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Neo-emo
The pop-punk middle schoolers of the late Noughties and the e-boys and e-girls of a few years ago have nothing on these emo kids today. They are bleaching their eyebrows, they are tattooing their faces, they are posting their dark, twisted poetry on the Internet, and they look cool. The new wave of emo kids are getting handpoke tattoo supplies from Amazon (legally, we can’t recommend this) and posing in their mirror selfies with Sanpaku eyes. Some may find it hard to believe, but the emo kids have a little bit of overlap with the coquette girls.
TSMNZMU Punk Cargo Skirt
The silver hardware along with all the straps, buckles, and pockets offer the perfect amount of punk flair. It’s kind of like a pleated schoolgirl skirt.Anine Bing Mini Gaia Chain Bag
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is cowhide lined with canvas with a subtle logo on the front. The real beauty of it is obviously the chainmail. Not pictured, but inside is an Emily Dickinson poetry book, a vape, a digital camera from the 2000s, and wire headphones.Intentionally Blank Era Mary Jane Clog
are screaming creepy doll house. An emo girl’s take on Barbie. If you opt for one of the shiny patent leather colorways, the shape of the toe does wonders for that creepy plastic illusion. Do with that what you will. -
Rosettes
I hope you’re not tired of the rosette trend yet because it’s not going anywhere. Rosettes are perhaps the most delicate trend to dominate the summer fashion sphere. Whether you’re shopping for a hair accessory, bridal look, going-out top or pair of shoes, there’s a good chance you can find what you’re looking for with a rosette attached. Blumarine can be credited for bringing the vintage trend back last year and since then, brands like Sandy Liang and Mirro Palais have hopped on board.
Many celebrities love the rosette trend too. Most notably, Harry Styles wore a giant version of the trend to the 2023 Brit Awards and Zendaya basically wore an entire rose garden to the 2023 SAG Awards. This trend works for any occasion and is easy to incorporate with various fashion aesthetics. If you haven’t tried it yet, what are you waiting for?
Rosettes always look so chic in a monochrome ‘fit, but personally, I like when the rosette itself contrasts the garment it’s sewn onto. Take, for example, the white rosette stands out much more when it’s up against a black suit.
I’ve been drooling over bright red rosettes as of late; they just bring a little extra boldness to an otherwise light, gentle, and feminine trend. Example: This absolutely stun-ning with daring front cutouts.
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Drop Waist Dresses
The days of belting a dress to emphasize your waistline are in the past. Instead of opting for a high-waisted silhouette, try the sexier drop-waist alternative. This style is typically paired with longer dresses which bodes particularly well for eveningwear and special occasions. Take note from designers like Prabal Gurung and Phillip Lim and look for dresses with an asymmetrical neckline to give the look a modern feel.
If the designs from the runway feel a bit too bold for your taste, start with something simple. A basic, long-sleeved T-shirt dress with a drop-waist is an easy, wearable way to test out this trend, and since this comes in five colors, you can find one that perfectly suits your style.
Early ’00s style is still going strong and this is a reflection of that. It’s a good one to have on hand for the summer to pair with sandals and statement jewelry, but for now, you can let this breezy piece peek out from underneath a chunky sweater and complete your look with knee-high boots.
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A little drop waist, a little asymmetrical — this gets an A+ for including all the elements that appeared on the spring 2024 runways. It’s also super versatile thanks to its structured, button-down style, meaning it would look right at home at the office as it would on date night.
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Quiet Luxury
Timeless pieces can be an investment in terms of financial commitment, but the longevity they will bring makes it all worth it. Thanks to Gwyneth Paltrow and a re-established love for brands like The Row and Khaite, continues to trend for 2024. The notion of having a capsule wardrobe that is filled with non-logo elevated basics, allows you to mix-and-match for a number of different outfit combinations. Quiet luxury pieces look and feel expensive, are perfectly tailored, and made with high-quality materials.
Not as stiff as jeans yet not as relaxed as sweats, wide-leg trousers are a great alternative to keep in your closet. A can be worn almost anywhere since they’re easy to dress up or style casually and always look luxe.
A trench coat is a classic, expensive-looking outerwear option that’s essentially seasonless. Slip this on over your outfit and voilà — your whole look will instantly be elevated.
Whether you’re layering it under a jacket or using it to balance out a more statement-making bottom, a white or cream-colored tee has solidified its spot as a wardrobe essential. Customers say is breathable and stretchy, and surprisingly holds up no matter how often you wear it.
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Mermaidcore
It looks like fashion designers were just as excited as everyone else about the new The Little Mermaid movie release. With gadgets, gizmos, dresses, and accessories a-plenty, Mermaidcore is the latest aesthetic to hit the runways and the big screen. Want to jump in? You’ll need seashell-inspired bralettes, sequin skirts, and knit coverups to wear over your bikini. Mermaidcore is all about taking ocean-inspired pieces and pairing them with your classic summer wardrobe items.
Designers like Blumarine have taken a more literal approach to mermaidcore with multiple iterations of a seashell bra top incorporated into the spring/summer ’23 collection. Bottega Veneta made an aquamarine skirt that could take you from the office to the ocean.
Bring mermaidcore to any special occasion with with a fishtail hemline. The shimmery material will make it look like you just emerged from the ocean.
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This is giving Ariel from The Little Mermaid but way more elevated and chic. This swimsuit is such a show-stopper if you have a vacation on the cal and an Instagram grid to update.
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Bridal Suits
You don’t have to be walking down the aisle to buy a . Short, long, tailored, and flowy white suits were all welcome on the Spring/Summer ’24 runways. Whether you’re looking for a strong winter white, or are already planning your work wardrobe for next summer, a white suit should definitely be included in the line-up. Designers like Bevza and Simone Rocha leaned into the bridal aesthetic this season which may be due to the increase in looks a bride now desires throughout the engagement and wedding season. If you’re not getting married, wear one anyway (as long as it’s not to the wedding).
The best thing about buying a full suit? It’s essentially a two-for-one deal. While will no doubt look nice with its coordinating, it’ll also work as the perfect layer to drape over a sundress or tee.
If you actually are a bride-to-be, you may be searching for a white suit that feels special — AKA something you won’t see everyone else wearing. Enter, this and combo from ASOS, which is the ideal, statement-making solution if you’re celebrating in the summer heat.
If pants aren’t your thing or you’d prefer not to spend on multiple items, a is a great, one-and-done alternative. Now, you can get the same sleek and structured vibe without all the hassle.
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Mega Bags
Your portable charger, book, laptop, makeup routine, gym clothes, and a pack of gum finally all have a place to go. Mega bags are here to crush all of the other 2024 handbag trends—those Jacquemus mini bags better watch out! Designers like Brandon Maxwell, Sandy Liang, and STAUD proved that the bigger the bag, the better. It looks like the basic work tote is finally getting an upgrade.
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Maybe it’s the unique shape or the fun wooden handles that are featured on this bag, but there’s something so intriguing about . Even better than its eye-catching appearance is the fact that it’s big enough to use as an overnight bag, so if you have any quick trips planned, you’ll be glad to have it in your collection.
Warm weather activities provide the perfect excuse to carry around an oversized tote. This has more than enough room for a towel, a water bottle, a good book, a snack, and possibly a change of clothes, so you’ll likely want to have it handy for beach, pool, or park trips.
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Millennial Pink
Do you remember the chokehold this specific shade of pink had on millennials (and probably every other age group) in 2015? From home decor accents and wedding color schemes to brand campaigns, this color made every palette more palpable. However, over the last few years, the shade disappeared from collections as quickly as the phrase “girl boss” disappeared from our vernacular. The bright shade of took its place and has hopefully (finally) run its course. According to designers like Carolina Herrera, Simone Rocha, and Tory Burch, it’s time to add back into our closets. Based on the Spring/Summer ’24 collections, you can expect to see the shade heavily incorporated into formal wear—no 2024 bridesmaid is safe.
Switching up your footwear is one of the easiest ways to incorporate trends into your wardrobe. Although these technically include multiple shades of pink, the millennial shade is part of the mix, and while they look similar to styles from Chanel, they ring in at just $30.
There’s no limit to when or where you can rock this shade, so naturally, it deserves to be worked into your fitness and loungewear outfits, too. By swapping out your beige half-zip for this, you’ll instantly give your relaxed look some fashion-forward flair…even if the only place you’re heading is back to the couch.
Carrying a colorful purse is the perfect way to add a pop of color — and some excitement — to an otherwise simple outfit. Not only does this nail the millennial pink trend, but it also has an eye-catching shape that’s popular right now.
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Prepster
If you still have your Abercrombie & Fitch polo shirt from the early 2000s, it’s time to pull that relic back out. Preppy fashion is back and Miu Miu is leading the charge with polos, layered collared shirts, boat shoes, and elastic waist mini skirts. In Miu Miu’s collection, the trend is taking on the full Y2K identity but you can still find more classic versions of preppy style in 2024. Brands like Bally and Tods took a more streamlined approach to preppy fashion with pleated skirts, thin belts, and collared, short-sleeved button-up shirts.
Is it a dress? A sweater? This was made to be oversized, so technically, you can get away with wearing it as both.
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If a traditional polo shirt seems a bit too sporty for your taste, try one that’s made from finer knit fabric. This has the same collegiate-inspired design, but between the stripes and choice of material, feels a bit softer and less athletic than your average option.
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If the preppy aesthetic brings to mind visions of school uniforms and high school sports teams, same. Channel your inner athlete or cheerleader — in a non-cheesy, less obvious way. Not only will it help you nail the trend, it’s also the perfect light layer for in-between weather.
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Bunches of Lilac
If you aren’t excited about the return of Millennial Pink, maybe this shade of lilac will make up for it. Lilac is a color that, dare I say, genuinely looks good on everyone and works in many forms. The soft hue looks inviting when woven into a chunky winter sweater and looks as whimsical as a lace summer dress. The shade is seasonless which means there’s no excuse to wait to wear it.
One way to work this shade into your wardrobe is with a ruffled dress, similar to this design we saw on 3.1 Phillip Lim’s runway. Thankfully, Revolve has you covered with this more.
If you’re tempted to work this color into your closet but don’t know where to start, don’t overthink it. Just add a into your rotation and style it how you would anything else.
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Bad hair days are no match for a baseball cap. However, rather than reaching for one in a darker shade, try instead, which will add both fun and whimsy to the rest of your look.
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City School Girl
If you visit Manhattan’s Lower East Side neighborhood right now, you’ll see a strong presence of the city school aesthetic. The look takes elements of the demure, girly school aesthetic (plaid skirts, ruffled collars, and pink bows) and fuses them with street-style grunge (heavy piercings, lug sole shoes, and mesh layering). At the heart of the neighborhood, you’ll also find Sandy Liang’s storefront—looking out onto the street with a front-row view of the aesthetic she’s helped craft. It’s no wonder then that Sandy Liang’s S/S ‘23 collection was a direct reflection of the environment with girly-grunge pastel mini dresses. Liang paired the looks with ballet flats (the trend is here to stay!) or sleek sporty sneakers. Similar versions of the ensemble were also seen at Coach and Maya Seyferth. If you’re eager to create your own version of the city school aesthetic, I’d recommend browsing the racks at your local vintage store first.
You can easily be given a city edge with a pair of platform boots, sporty sunglasses and a worn-out leather bag.
Lean into the floral side of the girly grunge aesthetic with complete with puff sleeves.
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Total Tassels
Remember when feathers bordered every sleeve and hemline? Well, they’ve officially been replaced by tassels and fringe. Tassel trim is traditionally neutral-toned, which makes it a great option for wardrobe minimalists and a wide range of designers. Brands like Bevza (known for elevated neutrals) to Bronx and Banco, a party-goer’s go-to, embraced long fringe.
In an exclusive interview with Bronx and Banco designer, Natalie De’Banco, I got an inside scoop regarding the shift from the luxe night-life aesthetics we saw in her Fall/Winter ’22 collection to the earth-toned glam we saw for Spring/Summer ’23, “Since our resort collection was super bright and colorful, we are keeping the palate neutral and calming with blacks and beiges. That said, there won’t be a lack of color. We are using splashes of electric peach, lipstick coral, and neon lime to add excitement to the collection.”
The textured tassel trim will be the ultimate party trick come summer 2024, but there’s no reason why you need to wait to wear the trend. Tassels and fringe look incredible when incorporated with a neutral sweater, hanging from suede boots, and on the back of a heavy leather or suede jacket.
If you have any type of special event where you need to get dolled up and make a fashion statement, don’t overlook . Whether you pair it with a mini skirt, capri pants, jeans, or trousers, expect everyone to be asking you where you got your top from.
A summer beach day or tropical vacay is the perfect opportunity to whip out a . This one comes in a striking, summer-ready orange color that would look cute as a matching set or even just with a simple skirt, linen pants, or jean shorts.
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Oh Yes, Obliques
This past summer, cut-outs were everywhere, specifically a double oblique cut-out (like on ). Cut-outs continued to dominate formal wear on the New York runways but this time, designers were picking a side. One-sided oblique cutouts were everywhere and on everyone—Gigi Hadid rocked the look at Tom Ford and Karlie Kloss wore a one-shoulder iteration at Carolina Herrera. The style emphasizes your waist, shows a little skin, and plays up any simple gown.
Barbiecore pink isn’t going anywhere and neither are oblique cut-outs. Get the best of both worlds with .
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A fancy dinner on vacation seems like the perfect occasion to bring out this simple yet sexy .
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The Gold Standard
This fashion trend is gunning for a first-place spot in your closet. Metallic gold is sure to win you over in 2024. Gold automatically makes any outfit appear more formal. For special occasions, use Blumarine’s stunning gold strapless dress as inspiration. If you’re looking to score extra points in the office, consider adding metallic accents as demonstrated on the Miu Miu runway. Rabanne made a strong case for mixed metals with a gold and silver set. The trend can have a gladiator look—if you want to tone it down, pair metallic gold with alternate materials like denim or leather.
You don’t need a full metallic dress to nail this particular trend. A will do and will probably prove to be even more versatile. You can style it with an equally sparkly bottom or use it to give your most basic pair of pants the ultimate boost.
Over time, might end up being one of your favorite purchases — especially if you often find yourself at a loss for what to wear for special occasions. This shiny design is a smart solution for everything fancy, from fun date nights to weddings and even Halloween costumes (just think of all the glamourous ideas you’ll be able to come up with).
Metallics were also among the top , so why not swap out your sneakers? Now, even your sweats will have a pop of something fun.
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Satin Trench Coats
Get inspired by your grandmother’s closet and give your outerwear rotation a facelift by adding a satin trench coat to your wardrobe. The look of this coat is naturally more formal than a classic canvas trench which actually gives it more styling versatility. As presented on the Spring/Summer ’24 runways, this style clearly works over a dress with heels—for a more casual look, wear it open with a white T-shirt and jeans. Either way, the look has a vintage feel and will add texture and dimension to any simple ensemble.
A trench coat alone is usually enough to turn some heads when you walk in the room, but if you really want all eyes on you, throw on this . It gives all the drama thanks to its floor-length crop, and be sure to zoom in on the model images to marvel over the intricate back hook and eye closures.
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Rather than reaching for trench coats in shades of beige or black, spice things up by adding to the mix. It’ll add interest to your closet while still being muted enough to pair with various outfits, including ones that include other pieces from the same color family.
The reviews on warn others not to sleep on this stunning design. The shiny appearance will instantly enhance the most basic outfit combinations, and while it definitely looks elegant, it’s said to be as comfy as a bathrobe.
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