Although I often advise my clients not to get too swept away with what's "on trend" it's nevertheless fun to have an eye on what themes are emerging on the high street. Helpfully there have been some trends which have carried over from last season so there's no need to get rid of the metallics yet! Here are a few of the trends for Spring/Summer 2024 to look out for.
But first..... In an effort to prove a point, that it is futile to be too easily led by fashion trends, there was one article this week suggesting that skinny jeans are back as Taylor Swift had been spotted in her skinnies! Sigh. This is why as a personal stylist I want you to be happy and comfortable in your own style and shape. If that means you never throw away your skinny jeans, all the better. I just want you to feel confident in knowing your style and owning the look.
With that in mind, here are a few things which you might start to notice on the high street for Spring / Summer 2024. I'll keep it brief!
Western
Beyonce, we're looking at you for this one! Western boots returned last year and now with the release of Beyonce's latest album, it's confirmed the cowgirl look is not going anywhere. I'm talking suede jackets, western boots, fringing, etc. Here's an example of a faux suede jacket from New Look which is giving the vibes. If you want something more subtle these black boots from M&S might be more to your taste.
Polo Club
Yes, really! The preppy look of polo necklines was very prevalent on the catwalks and now is being seen on the high street from brands other than the usual suspects like Ralph Lauren, Joules and Crew. This is quite a classic look but if you'd like to freshen it up a bit try pairing a polo t-shirt with a more feminine skirt like a slip skirt. A denim skirt for instance might look too expected, whereas a feminine skirt will give the look some contrast and will lend itself to looking more modern. Reiss have this polo currently which is a lovely take on this look. This sweatshirt of theirs is also lovely too.
Tailoring
Smart tailoring was also very visible last year and thankfully it's not going anywhere for the moment. The tailored look isn't just for the office either - a well fitting trouser suit is a great look if you're after an alternative for a wedding guest outfit. Mango have some fab options at the moment in lots of colours. This fuschia linen suit looks stunning. Similarly a waistcoat with a pair of jeans can be an alternative to a t-shirt (once this weather decides what it's doing!). M&S have some great waistcoats at the moment like this one.
Slingbacks
If, like me, your days of wearing heels are more and more rare then you're probably as pleased as I am that we now have so many options when it comes to flat shoes. Ballet pumps and Mary-Janes are still very present on the high street but now there's a newcomer in town. The slingback is here, and also is a flat/low heel - hurrah! A pointed toe slingback is a cute addition to your jeans and gives an alternative to trainers. Boden have these fab silver slingbacks to offer. I also love these pink ones from M&S.
Wide leg trousers/jeans
Have you come across the "barrel-leg" jean yet? Or the "horseshoe jean"? It's a particularly wide leg jean which continue to widen at the knees before tapering in at the ankles. These jeans also are a nod to the Western look I previously mentioned. Now. These are a divisive shape of jean. A Marmite of a jean shape. This won't be a shape for everyone - and probably one to avoid for those of you who are pear shaped as you might be conscious of the imbalance this shape gives you. In essence, this shape is an update to the straight leg and the "Mom" shape jeans we've recently become accustomed to. But a more wearable version of this would simply be a wide leg trouser or jean. But going back to my opening point, wear the jean shape you're comfortable with. Personally I won't be giving up my straight leg jeans anytime soon!
So there you have it, a whistle stop tour of the Spring / Summer 2024 fashion trends and what you might notice on the high street, in magazines and social media in the coming months. Your decision to partake is of course yours!
However, I'd like to reiterate, I want you to feel confident, comfortable and happy with what you see in the mirror - regardless if it is deemed by the fashion industry as "on trend". That is the most powerful, beautiful and stylish thing of all.
Have a lovely rest of your week,
Lou x