All restrictions are gone, and we are going back into the real world. The evenings are staying lighter longer, and it is getting slightly warmer which means spring and summer is upon us. We are ready to pack away our thick winter jumpers and puffer coats. The spring/ summer trends are here to get us excited about the season to come. In addition to sharing some of the biggest trends from the runways, we have also looked at how you could experiment or invest in these pieces, in a more conscious and sustainable way!  

Mini Skirts

The 1960’s inspired mini skirts covered the fashion week runways from the Miu Miu micro-mini utility skirt, which went viral on social media, to the Michael Kors high waisted suit skirt; mini skirts have been a major hit. You can pair them with crop tops/ jumpers or with a collared top or blazer.  Shorter style skirts can work with different body shapes, including women with broader shoulders, a straighter shape or a fuller waistline.  The right cut can help accentuate the bottom half and elongate the legs.  

But don’t worry, you don’t need to brave the micro-mini to be on trend. You may have a shorter skirt sitting in your wardrobe from a few years ago or something that you could upcycle, by bringing up the hem.  There are plenty of options to choose from.  Eye catching colours from bold to pastel, contrasting fabrics, satin and leather and different fits; there is a skirt for everyone out there. 

Bright Colours

It is time to say farewell to your neutrals and embrace the bright, bold colours. If you want to add a refreshing burst of colour to your wardrobe this spring/ summer, pinks, greens and purples are the way to go this season. Pantone’s colour of the year is ‘Very Peri’, this can be a pale purple or deeper jewel tone, which has been used by Valentino and Gucci. We have also seen hyper feminine Barbie pink and lime green in many garments this season including suits, tracksuits and accessories. 

Bright colours come back into fashion for spring/ summer year after year and is definitely something that is worth investing in. Whether that’s a full piece or just a bag, scarf or hat to add a pop to elevate your outfit, bright colours are here to stay.  You could also opt for a versatile staple piece, in an interesting or eye-catching colour, that can go well with a more neutral outfit.

Anna Shvets

Low Rise

The high-rise waistline has dominated our wardrobe for many years, and continues to be the most flattering cut for many, but for all you noughties lovers out there, low rise is back to the forefront. You can find low rise on jeans, skirts, cargo trousers, the list goes on. Under the belly button waistlines are not for everyone’s taste, but if you want to give it a try, now is the time to do it.  Low rise can give more emphasis around the hips and thigh areas, so perhaps select a wider or loose cut for a more relaxed fit.

You might also want to have a rummage in the wardrobe before heading straight to the shops, as there could be an old pair from the 2000s that is now back in style.  Another great option is to head to your nearest vintage or pre-owned store to see if you can discover some pre-loved gems.

Cut Outs

Cut-out garments were another piece that filled the runways - from New York to Milan cut-outs were a standout this year. Celebrities including Hailey Bieber and Zendaya, are still loving this style that began to appear last year. The negative space trend is implemented in many garments including elegant maxi dresses to add an edge, or to add a fierceness to a mini dress or top. Cut-outs can work for all shapes and sizes, for anyone who is interested in spicing up their outfit. If you don’t feel confident exposing too much, look for more simple styles such as cold shoulder or keyhole neckline designs to remain discreet, but on trend.

Another way to experiment with cut outs might be to apply some artistic licence to existing wardrobe pieces that you’re no longer wearing or that you might be looking to donate.  There are also many upcycling stores and apps that can help you create something that is unique, on trend and adds to your wardrobe sustainably, without you buying anything extra.

Co-Ords

It’s time to get matchy-matchy this season with bright and bold co-ords. These are perfect for any occasion, whether you are going for a picnic with friends or a date-night dinner.  Co-ords come in all styles: blazers, skirts, shirts, crop tops, trousers and many more. You can choose to be adventurous with a wavy print as seen on Coach’s runway or a simple block colour to style with accessories. 

A coordinated set is also the perfect piece to add versatility to your wardrobe; it can be worn together as is on trend right now, as two separate pieces to produce more diverse outfits, or as a layering piece.

Tima Miroshnichenko

A Conscious Approach to Seeking Trends

It is always exciting to see the latest trends come off the catwalk, into street style and to see how you can refresh your wardrobe with one or two key pieces. A simple top or jacket or a bright pop of colour, can make all the difference. And the good news is that many of this year’s trends allow you to reuse items you may already have, including options to upcycle or repurpose some of your existing wardrobe.  

If you are looking to buy, look for something that can become an investment piece, to give you more wearability and the best value for your purchase.  For example, opt for a bright colour that will match with things in your existing wardrobe, or a coordinated set where the top and bottoms might be styles that can help diversify what you already have.