The Summer Fashion Trends Worth Investing in This Year
Wardrobes are changing faster than ever. While fashion trends are cyclical and come back in style every few decades or so, the pace has picked up over the last twenty years or so. Fast fashion and micro trends are more popular than ever, with brands coming up with new collections several times a year and the clothing prices decreasing, which has led to many people buying more garments more frequently. However, the quality is often lacking, meaning that these items end up being barely worn and are frequently discarded before the end of their lifetime.
Some trends are only around for a few weeks or even days, and after they’re over, everyone moves on to the next thing. This naturally means that you’re now left with a lot of clothes that you don’t believe you’ll wear anymore. The fact that many of them are very specific to these trends (and therefore lack versatility and wearability outside of very specific contexts) generally means that they cannot be combined with anything else. The emergence of brands that utilise low-cost manufacturing in order to replicate these trends and the fact that they offer clothes that are exceedingly cheap has led to overconsumption, environmental damage, and the decreased longevity of clothing.
Some humanitarian organizations, such as the Icelandic Red Cross, have even decided that products created by these manufacturers should be banned from their clothing stores as a result of the elevated levels of toxic substances found in the fabrics. Circular fashion stores have similarly removed these products from their shelves. Now that summer’s coming, you probably thought about adding a few new items to your wardrobe. The best way to do so is in a sustainable manner so that you can keep enjoying these pieces for many years after buying them.
Bold accessories
Adding a bit of colour and vibrancy to your wardrobe is something that most people want these days. While minimalism and quiet luxury (both trends that are focused on neutrals and simple, clean lines) have remained popular over the years, many are starting to get a bit bored with them and want to change things up a little. But having a colourful outfit from head to toe might seem like a bit much, especially if it’s not your style. The key to an enduring wardrobe is to focus on items that you’ll enjoy wearing over the long term.
So, how do you elevate an outfit? The answer is simple: focus on accessories. A headwrap is a great choice since these pieces are both practical and can also make your look stand out. They can be tied in many different ways and come in a wide variety of colours, patterns, and prints that can be accessorised however you wish. However, make sure that you pick something made of a sturdy cotton fabric. Not only will they last longer and be more comfortable to wear, but you also won’t have to worry about releasing microplastics into water anytime you do laundry.
Colourful tote bags are similarly versatile. Dreamy pink, intense blue, and sunny yellow are the preferred choices since they’ll all be very summery. A pair of tortoiseshell sunglasses, colourful (but comfortable) sandals, printed silk scarves, and ornate earrings (look for metals like pearls, crystals, and precious metals since they’ll withstand wear and tear much better).
The basics
The basics are classics, the items that will always look good and which you should always have in your wardrobe. White t-shirts are one of them. They look great with jeans, shorts, skirts, linen trousers, you name it. While they may all look the same, though, it’s important to be careful with the quality. Look for a garment that has a good fit and thick fabric, with the best choice being that of a mid-weight material that isn’t sheer. Crew necklines are a classic and tend to be more durable, while a hip length for the hemline makes the t-shirt perfect for tucking.
A simple summer dress made of cotton or linen is also something that you’re sure to wear for many years to come. Just pair yours with sandals or ballet flats, a cute bag, and a headwrap from AfricanFabs, and you’ve already created a chic but laid-back outfit. The dress can have additional elements that accentuate it as well, such as pleats, a sculpted bodice, ruching, or puff sleeves. Linen is the perfect material for summer, being perfectly breathable and exuding relaxed sophistication. They come in all kinds of colours, from the classic ecru to navy, black, white, burgundy, or deep green.
Pair yours with a linen shirt in the same hue (or a contrasting one) for a more seamless look, a t-shirt, or a sporty top.
Popular trends
Several trends are expected to be quite popular this summer, but before you start shopping, look into your wardrobe to see if you don’t already own similar pieces that you have forgotten about. If you need to shop, go for second-hand and thrift stores first. Brands that have proven their commitment to sustainability should be on your list, too.
Rugged utility styles inspired by gorpcore will be popular. Think cargo shorts, tank tops, balloon trousers, and funnel necklines. Retro looks are coming back in style. Throw on a nylon jacket for evening walks (it gets chilly around that time), relaxed shorts, and some suede-trimmed sneakers, and you’ve got the look.
The bottom line
Trends come and go. This is truer than ever nowadays, when social media has made it so that things which were popular a month or two ago are no longer stylish. Endlessly chasing these looks isn’t something that’s good for your finances or the environment. It’s a much better idea to find your own style and focus on the looks and pieces that you actually feel good in and enjoy wearing.
Before buying new clothes, think carefully about whether you’re actually going to wear them in the future or if they’re something you want only because you saw them on someone online. Taking some time to figure out if you actually want an item will make you into a more disciplined and conscious shopper, helping you in the long term.
Read more from Crave, the lifestyle magazine UK audiences turn to for inspiration and trends.