Life Arts & This season’s statement styles

A look at current trends and predictions for spring and summer

By Alexandra Dassopoulos | Staff Writer

In the wake of New York, Paris and Milan fashion weeks, new trends have trickled down from the runways into students’ favorite stores at NorthPark or The Galleria. The Spring/Summer shows expectedly featured styles that recycled vintage trends – yet they also brought more statement fashion pieces, metallics and a variety of materials, from leather to chiffon. Here are some high fashion items and trend predictions students might want to incorporate into their own wardrobes.

LONG SKIRTS: DENIM & CARGO Trends

First created in the 1970s as a sustainable fashion item, maxi denim skirts are coming back into fashion. Mainly paired with simple tops and classy boots, they’ve been upgraded for an effortless, everyday look. Besides denim, cargo maxi skirts have also surfaced this season. The craze of cargo pants has translated to these safari-esque skirts, typically found with low-waisted silhouettes.

METALLIC & MOTO

Metallics are especially popular in fall and winter collections, as the colder months bring about shimmering holiday festivities. However, many recent Spring 2023 fashion shows have incorporated metallic materials with distressing and casual styling. Now, metallics have established their place as a year-round favorite. A fresh and modern take, metallic clothing and accessories have been paired with blue jeans, white tees and sundresses, adding to their versatility. These metallics have also been juxtaposed with motorcycle jackets and other leather items, as echoed by the brand Diesel. Some metallic styles have even been made from leather fabrics, adding to the contrast.

Big Belts

Oversized belts have been posted all over Pinterest recently, with Western styles on both boho outfits and sophisticated ensembles. Influencer Lauren Wolfe said to her TikTok fans, “If you’re going to get one accessory for the spring or summer, it should be these [belts].” Statement belts like these are available at Free People or can be found sustainably at thrift stores. Diesel has also produced its own statement “D” belt, a more futuristic take.

Predictions

Fringe

Adding to the boho and motorcycle trends of this season, fringe is bound to become a popular trend this season. Already seen on the runways at fashion shows, fringe adds movement to leather jackets and skirts, as well as a classic Americana look to streetwear. Popular stores like Free People and luxury brands like Hervé Leger are catering to this trend, spreading it to a wide range of customers.

ROSETTES & RUFFLES

Epitomizing the salsa girl emoji, rosettes and ruffles have spread from high fashion brands like Rat and Boa to Urban Outfitters and White Fox. Sheer blouses and asymmetrical midi dresses with ruffles create a flattering and flowy shape. Rosettes have not only been added to sheer, ruffled styles like these, but also to chokers – already everywhere on social media. With an almost vintage touch, they are definitely a statement piece. But if styled well, these chokers can complete a look.

Asics

They might be hiding in the back of a parent’s closet, but Asics are making a comeback. The dad shoe came back into style a few years ago, with brands like New Balance and Adidas – but Asics is bringing this trend to a new level. Highlighting the metallic trend this season, Asics sells various silver versions, blending athleisure with street style. Besides neutrals, the brand has also used colors like pink and green.