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Fashion United
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Fashion United
Spring/Summer 2026 Trend Report: Navigating a Season of Reorientation and Mindful Expression
The spring/summer 2026 season emerges against a complex global backdrop, marked by socio-political reorientations, a heightened awareness of environmental urgencies, and a collective yearning for authenticity and connection in an increasingly digital world. Trend forecasters suggest a "transitional period" where society is perceived to be on the "verge of eruption," prompting fashion to act as a "coping mechanism" and a vehicle for healing. This environment fosters a desire for what the German Fashion Institute (DMI) terms a "detox society" seeking a restart from digital saturation and superficiality. Key overarching themes for SS26 reflect this dynamic. 'Fluidity' in design, thought, and lifestyle will be paramount, offering comfort and adaptability. A profound 'Connection to Nature and Regeneration' drives material choices and aesthetic directions, emphasising sustainability not just as a goal but as an integrated practice. 'Elevated Craftsmanship and Authenticity' will counter mass production, with a focus on artisanal techniques and unique expressions. 'Mindful Consumption and Intellectualism' signal a shift towards durable, meaningful purchases and designs that engage the intellect. Finally, 'Purposeful Technology Integration' sees innovations like AI and smart fabrics enhancing function and creative possibilities, rather than merely serving as novelties. Trend narratives for SS26 The season will be shaped by several core narratives, each appealing to distinct consumer mindsets yet interconnected by the overarching themes of reorientation and mindful expression. Narrative one: Fluid realities; Embracing softness and serene adaptability Core Concept: This trend champions comfort, ease, and gentle self-expression. It moves away from rigid structures towards flowing, adaptable forms that soothe and reassure. It is a response to a "saturated society," prioritising visual comfort and emotional resonance. This trend champions comfort, ease, and gentle self-expression. It moves away from rigid structures towards flowing, adaptable forms that soothe and reassure. It is a response to a "saturated society," prioritising visual comfort and emotional resonance. Cultural Drivers: A desire for serenity amidst global uncertainty, the rise of gender-fluid expression, and a need for clothing that supports versatile lifestyles, from home to hybrid work environments. WGSN identifies 'Blue Aura' as a key colour reflecting healing and trans-seasonality, while 'Jelly Mint' speaks to micro-moments of joy and mental well-being. A desire for serenity amidst global uncertainty, the rise of gender-fluid expression, and a need for clothing that supports versatile lifestyles, from home to hybrid work environments. WGSN identifies 'Blue Aura' as a key colour reflecting healing and trans-seasonality, while 'Jelly Mint' speaks to micro-moments of joy and mental well-being. Target Consumer: The mindful individual seeking calm, quality, and understated elegance. This consumer values garments that feel good, both physically and emotionally, and appreciates quiet luxury and subtle innovation. They are drawn to the 'kidult' appeal of playful nostalgia and the inclusivity of serene designs. The mindful individual seeking calm, quality, and understated elegance. This consumer values garments that feel good, both physically and emotionally, and appreciates quiet luxury and subtle innovation. They are drawn to the 'kidult' appeal of playful nostalgia and the inclusivity of serene designs. Visual Mood Board: Imagine soft, flowing silhouettes reminiscent of meringues or gentle waves; a palette of pearlescent whites, soothing pastels like Blue Aura and Pink Flare, and shadowy neutrals; transparent layers of tulle and organza; tactile surfaces like plissé and soft knits; and forms that suggest comfort wear and deconstructed lingerie layered with an artistic, non-chalant ease. Narrative two: Regenerative futures; Nature as muse and method Core Concept: This narrative places ecological responsibility and the wisdom of nature at its heart. It moves beyond mere nature-inspired aesthetics to embody regenerative principles in materials, processes, and design thinking. This narrative places ecological responsibility and the wisdom of nature at its heart. It moves beyond mere nature-inspired aesthetics to embody regenerative principles in materials, processes, and design thinking. Cultural Drivers: The escalating climate crisis and consumer demand for "planet first" approaches. This includes a search for spirituality, a connection to ancient wisdom, and a desire to slow down, as highlighted by WGSN's 'Amber Haze'. Jan Agelink's 'Green Industries' theme underscores regeneration as a future model. The escalating climate crisis and consumer demand for "planet first" approaches. This includes a search for spirituality, a connection to ancient wisdom, and a desire to slow down, as highlighted by WGSN's 'Amber Haze'. Jan Agelink's 'Green Industries' theme underscores regeneration as a future model. Target Consumer: The conscious consumer, environmentally aware and seeking products with a positive impact. They are drawn to natural materials, innovative eco-textiles, and brands that demonstrate genuine commitment to sustainability and circularity. The conscious consumer, environmentally aware and seeking products with a positive impact. They are drawn to natural materials, innovative eco-textiles, and brands that demonstrate genuine commitment to sustainability and circularity. Visual Mood Board: Envision earthy tones like Transformative Teal and Amber Haze alongside vibrant botanical greens and delicate pastels drawn from wildflowers; textures inspired by tree bark, eroded surfaces, and water movement; prints featuring meticulously rendered botanicals, enlarged cell structures, or even abstract "Planetasia"; and materials such as organic cotton, hemp, linen, Tencel, biopolymers, and innovative recycled fibres. Think 'Expedition Wear' meeting artisanal craft. Narrative three: Expressive craft; Celebrating heritage and human touch Core Concept: In an age of digital replication, this trend celebrates the unique mark of the human hand and the richness of cultural heritage. It champions artisanal techniques, intricate details, and a sense of playful, rebellious romanticism. In an age of digital replication, this trend celebrates the unique mark of the human hand and the richness of cultural heritage. It champions artisanal techniques, intricate details, and a sense of playful, rebellious romanticism. Cultural Drivers: A counter-reaction to the pervasiveness of AI, a desire for uniqueness and authenticity, and a re-evaluation of traditional craftsmanship. Lidewij Edelkoort points to a resurgence of craft-minded clothing, while Christine Boland highlights "Reconsidered Romanticism" and "Artistic Intelligence." A counter-reaction to the pervasiveness of AI, a desire for uniqueness and authenticity, and a re-evaluation of traditional craftsmanship. Lidewij Edelkoort points to a resurgence of craft-minded clothing, while Christine Boland highlights "Reconsidered Romanticism" and "Artistic Intelligence." Target Consumer: The individualist who values storytelling, artistry, and pieces with character. They are drawn to maximalist expressions, historical references reimagined, and the visible artistry of handmade or craft-inspired items. WGSN's 'Electric Fuchsia' embodies this rebellious, provocative attitude. The individualist who values storytelling, artistry, and pieces with character. They are drawn to maximalist expressions, historical references reimagined, and the visible artistry of handmade or craft-inspired items. WGSN's 'Electric Fuchsia' embodies this rebellious, provocative attitude. Visual Mood Board: Picture rich textures of raffia, woven materials, and artisanal embroidery; bold, expressive prints like "Punk Floral" or those inspired by ancient textiles and trompe-l'œil effects; sculptural silhouettes and deconstructed historical forms; a vibrant palette including Electric Fuchsia, deep reds, and metallic accents alongside romantic pastels; and details like visible stitching, intricate embellishments, and playful, treasure-chest-like adornments. The text continues below the images Textures: Raffia and woven designs highlight craftsmanship (trend SS26 Lidewij Edelkoort. Pronounce FW25, Alexandre Vauthier Haute Couture SS25, Federico Cina SS25. Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight According to Christine Boland the SS26 theme 'Reconsidered Romanticism', we are dealing with rebellious princesses, pirate queens and bohemian Decides War SS25, Loewe SS25, Chanel SS25. Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight According to Christine Boland's SS26 forecast, 'Artistic Intelligence' theme has a surreal touch. Anrealage SS25, CFCL SS25. Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight Product-specific trend analysis Colour palettes SS26 will see a nuanced interplay of colours. WGSN's five key colours – 'Transformative Teal' (ecological blue/green), 'Electric Fuchsia' (vibrant pink), 'Blue Aura' (serene blue/grey pastel), 'Amber Haze' (earthy amber yellow), and 'Jelly Mint' (playful mint green) – offer a foundational palette. These are complemented by: Earthy and Natural Tones: Browns, oranges, diverse greens, and stone greys, reflecting a connection to nature and longevity. Browns, oranges, diverse greens, and stone greys, reflecting a connection to nature and longevity. Soothing Neutrals and Pastels: Pearlescent whites, Limed Oak, Sorrel Beige, Lavender Blue, Pink Flare, and Cascade Green provide a base for quiet luxury and serene aesthetics. Pearlescent whites, Limed Oak, Sorrel Beige, Lavender Blue, Pink Flare, and Cascade Green provide a base for quiet luxury and serene aesthetics. Vibrant Accents: Sun Yellow, Turquoise Blue, and energetic reds will inject dynamism, particularly in prints and statement pieces. Sun Yellow, Turquoise Blue, and energetic reds will inject dynamism, particularly in prints and statement pieces. Deep and Mysterious Hues: Dark Blue, Deep Carmine, Congo Brown, and even black (rendered in light, transparent materials for summer) offer sophistication, especially for evening-influenced daywear or as grounding contrasts. Dark Blue, Deep Carmine, Congo Brown, and even black (rendered in light, transparent materials for summer) offer sophistication, especially for evening-influenced daywear or as grounding contrasts. Specific Palettes: Texhibition Istanbul highlighted concepts like 'Timeless Reimagined' (Dark Blue, Limed Oak, Deep Carmine) and 'Exotic Flourish' (Faded Purple, Wasabi, Apple Blossom). David Shah noted classic stripes in bold combinations and colour blocking. The text continues below the images WGSN Trend Colors SS26: Transformative Teal, Electric Fuchsia, Blue Aura, Amber Haze and Jelly Mint Credits: WGSN Transformative Teal Spotted on the Catwalk. On top: Todd Snyder FW25 Menswear, Erdem FW25 Ready to Wear, Burberry SS25 Ready to Wear. Elie Saab SS25 Ready to Wear, Boss SS25 Ready to Wear and K-Way FW25 Ready to Wear below. Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight Electric Fuchsia Spotted at the Catwalk. Credits: Pierre Cardin SS25 Ready to Wear, Miu Miu SS25 Ready to Wear, Ulla Johnson FW25 Ready to Wear & Pierre Cardin SS25 Ready to Wear ©Launchmetrics/spotlight Amber Haze Spotted on the Catwalk. Iordanes Spyridon Gogos OFF26 - Resort Women, Saint Laurent FW25 - Ready to Wear and Gabriela Hearst Gabriela Hearst FW25 - Ready to Wear on top. Syrena Swimwear X Volo Foundation SS26 - Beachwear, Satoru Sasaki FW25 - Ready to Wear and Khaite OFF26 Resort Women below. ©Launchmetrics/spotlight Credits: Launchmetrics spotlight Fabrics, materials & innovation Materiality in SS26 is defined by tactility, performance, and a significant emphasis on eco-innovation. Natural Fibres Reign: Linen: Key for its rustic simplicity and sustainability, appearing in shirting, suiting (blended with wool), knits, and even disrupting silk satins. Expect workwear stripes and handkerchief checks. Cotton: Premium organic, regenerative, and long-staple varieties (like Supima®) for durability. Glazed percales, fine poplins, and heavy gabardines offer diverse textures. Wool: Finely refined summer wools, often blended with cotton for shirting or linen for suiting, focusing on airy, climate-adaptive, and wrinkle-resistant qualities. Mulesing-free and improved land management practices are crucial. Silk: Used in masterful blends, with silk-elastane for stretch and fluidity, or interwoven with linen for unexpected crispness. Cellulosic Innovations: Tencel™ Lyocell, Lenzing™ Ecovero™ viscose, SeaCell™, Naïa™ acetate, and HeiQ AeoniQ™ (from Circulose® and agricultural waste) offer sustainable alternatives with diverse properties. Tencel™ Lyocell, Lenzing™ Ecovero™ viscose, SeaCell™, Naïa™ acetate, and HeiQ AeoniQ™ (from Circulose® and agricultural waste) offer sustainable alternatives with diverse properties. Recycled and Bio-Based Synthetics: Recycled polyesters (GRS-certified), recycled nylon (like Re-Cordura®), and emerging bio-based polymers (PLAX™, NOOSA™) reduce reliance on virgin fossil fuels. Brewed Protein™ by Spiber offers a novel alternative. Roica V550® provides a more biodegradable stretch option. Recycled polyesters (GRS-certified), recycled nylon (like Re-Cordura®), and emerging bio-based polymers (PLAX™, NOOSA™) reduce reliance on virgin fossil fuels. Brewed Protein™ by Spiber offers a novel alternative. Roica V550® provides a more biodegradable stretch option. Surface and Texture: Fluid and flowing fabrics (tulle, organza, delicate crêpes, voiles). Craft-inspired textures (raffia, woven designs, paper-like finishes, visible stitching, crochet). Functional finishes (PFC-free water repellency, windproof membranes, quick-dry, thermoregulating knits). Luminous and shimmering effects (metallic threads, pearl-like finishes, satin knits). Playful details like 3D knits, memory foam, and cloqué or crinkled textures. Denim Specifics: A wide range of washes from deep inky overdyes to light, speckled stonewashes and ombré effects. Stenciled laser prints for artistic finishes. Heavy deconstruction, destroyed surfaces, contrast stitching, and patchworking remain relevant. A wide range of washes from deep inky overdyes to light, speckled stonewashes and ombré effects. Stenciled laser prints for artistic finishes. Heavy deconstruction, destroyed surfaces, contrast stitching, and patchworking remain relevant. Eco-Innovation Focus (from Decodings): Durability is paramount. Traceability (Digital Product Passport from 2027) is key. Expansion of organic and regenerative farming. Certified sustainable forestry for cellulosics. Minimising chemical impact (PFC-free, NaNea by Ocean Safe for reduced microplastic). Silhouettes, shapes & key items SS26 silhouettes balance ease with thoughtful structure, catering to both comfort and expressive style. Womenswear: Fluid Forms: Soft tailoring, meringue-like volumes, pyjama-inspired sets, and flowing dresses. Layered Lingerie: Lingerie elements incorporated into everyday wear with a sense of unruly, gaudy layering for younger demographics, or more refined transparency for sophisticated looks. 'New Antique' Styles: Intricate plissé and pleats, transparent materials, and embellished details that reshape past aesthetics with a modern sensibility. Key Items: Oversized shirts, wide-leg trousers, versatile tunics (especially in denim), slip dresses, sculptural tops, and modern wrap designs with high slits. Hourglass silhouettes offer a counterpoint to looser forms. Menswear: 'Liquid Tailoring': Suits become more mobile and supple, often in fluid materials that are sharp yet comfortable, signalling a move from streetwear to a more traditional yet relaxed approach. Refined Casualwear: Elevated shirts, tailored trousers, and sophisticated sportswear with poetic details like drawstrings and functional pockets. Denim: Loose and relaxed fits dominate, including slouchy baggy jeans, barrel legs, and flares. Jorts, shorts, and capri lengths offer seasonal freshness. Gender-Fluid: Many silhouettes, particularly in fluid tailoring, oversized shirting, and relaxed denim, will appeal across genders, reflecting the ongoing trend of inclusivity. Blue Aura is highlighted by WGSN as a gender-inclusive colour. The text continues below the images Womenswear SS26 trends spotted on the catwalk. Layered Lingerie & New antique styles ter illustration. Cecilie Bahnsen FW25 - Rtw, Casablanca FW25 - Rtw, Giuseppe Di Morabito FW25 - Rtw on top. Middle: Christian Dior FW25 - Rtw 2x, Dolce&Gabbana FW25 - Rtw Bottom: Christopher Esber FW25 - Rtw Isabel Marant FW25 - Rtw & Burc Akyol FW25 Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight Denim SS26 menswear Spotted on the catwalk. Sacai SS25 Menswear, Louis Vuitton FW25 & Hed Mayner FW25 Menswear on top. Louis Vuitton FW25, Sacai SS25 Menswear & Bed JW Ford SS25 Menswear below. Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight Blue Aura Spotted on the Catwalk. On top: Wooyounmi SS25 Menswear & Andreas Kronthaler for Vivian Westwood FW25 ready to wear on top. Louis Vuitton FW25 Ready to Wear and Balenciaga FW25 Ready to Wear Below. Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight Prints, patterns & graphics Prints and patterns in SS26 are rich with narrative, drawing from nature, art, and heritage. Botanical Expressions: Intensely Botanical/Punk Floral: Vibrant, sometimes disrupted or hallucinatory floral prints, contrasting delicate flowers with bold, expressive strokes or digital interventions. Dark palettes can add drama. Botanical Idyll/Falling Petals: More serene and precise renderings of nature, using traditional artistic techniques for vintage-inspired sketches or soft, drifting petal motifs in pastel and neutral shades. Plantasia: Hybrid designs merging wild animals with botanical elements like bark and foliage, or mineral and shell-like textures. Artisanal and Heritage Inspired: Artisanal Stitch/Old Wardrobe: Prints mimicking embroidery, trompe-l'œil cross-stitch, or reinterpreting patterns from ancient textiles, tapestries, and wallpapers. Crafted Minimalism: Focus on patterns derived from craft techniques, such as Hermès using braiding techniques as print inspiration. Geometric and Abstract: Classic stripes in bold combinations, colour blocking, and subtle micro-patterns in suiting. Digital prints and AI-influenced surreal graphics offer a modern edge. Stenciled laser prints on denim provide artistic finishes. Classic stripes in bold combinations, colour blocking, and subtle micro-patterns in suiting. Digital prints and AI-influenced surreal graphics offer a modern edge. Stenciled laser prints on denim provide artistic finishes. Placement and Scale: From all-over florals to carefully placed emblem-style motifs. Enlarged cell structures or zoomed-in details (like Dries Van Noten's flower print creating an animalistic effect) offer abstract interpretations. Accessories Accessories will complement the overarching themes of craftsmanship, refined comfort, and expressive individuality. (Detailed accessory trends were less prominent in the provided articles, but inferences can be made). Footwear: Comfortable yet stylish options like sophisticated sneakers, refined loafers (aligning with menswear's shift to traditionalism), and elegant sandals. Comfortable yet stylish options like sophisticated sneakers, refined loafers (aligning with menswear's shift to traditionalism), and elegant sandals. Bags: Focus on artisanal details, natural materials (like raffia), and versatile shapes that combine functionality with aesthetic appeal. Small, charming details like handmade bag charms will be significant. Focus on artisanal details, natural materials (like raffia), and versatile shapes that combine functionality with aesthetic appeal. Small, charming details like handmade bag charms will be significant. Jewellery: Pieces that tell a story – perhaps drawing from natural forms, ancient wisdom (Amber Haze), or featuring handcrafted elements. Statement pieces for 'Reconsidered Romanticism' and subtle, personal items for 'Healing Aesthetics'. Pieces that tell a story – perhaps drawing from natural forms, ancient wisdom (Amber Haze), or featuring handcrafted elements. Statement pieces for 'Reconsidered Romanticism' and subtle, personal items for 'Healing Aesthetics'. Eyewear: Shapes that balance retro influences with modern minimalism. Shapes that balance retro influences with modern minimalism. Other: Books and newspapers are noted by DMI as intellectual accessories, reflecting a shift towards mind and mindfulness. Styling directions Styling for SS26 will focus on personal expression, comfort, and thoughtful combinations. Layering: Transparent fabrics, open-weave knits, and deconstructed pieces will encourage creative layering, playing with opacity and texture. Lingerie as outerwear continues. Transparent fabrics, open-weave knits, and deconstructed pieces will encourage creative layering, playing with opacity and texture. Lingerie as outerwear continues. Proportion Play: Continued exploration of oversized silhouettes balanced with more fitted elements, or full, fluid forms that create a sense of movement. Continued exploration of oversized silhouettes balanced with more fitted elements, or full, fluid forms that create a sense of movement. High-Low Mixing: Combining refined tailoring with casual denim (e.g., satin blazer with jeans), or sporty elements with elegant pieces (e.g., sports jackets over tulle skirts, swimwear with blazers). Combining refined tailoring with casual denim (e.g., satin blazer with jeans), or sporty elements with elegant pieces (e.g., sports jackets over tulle skirts, swimwear with blazers). Quiet Luxury: Emphasising quality craftsmanship and timeless design over overt branding. Simple garments made special through fabric and cut. Emphasising quality craftsmanship and timeless design over overt branding. Simple garments made special through fabric and cut. Intellectual Edge: Incorporating elements that suggest mindfulness and depth, perhaps through subtle literary references or an overall considered, less ostentatious approach. Incorporating elements that suggest mindfulness and depth, perhaps through subtle literary references or an overall considered, less ostentatious approach. Expressive Accents: Using bold colours, statement prints, or unique artisanal accessories to inject personality into otherwise serene or minimalist outfits. The text continues below the image Quite Luxury Spotted on the catwalk from Toteme SS25 and Toteme FW25 Ready to Wear Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight Commercial insights & buyer actionability Navigating SS26 requires a strategic approach that balances creative expression with commercial viability, particularly in a market demanding adaptability and resilience. David Shah of View Publications notes the challenging retail landscape, suggesting that even a minus six percent loss could be considered doing well, with industry averages potentially much lower. Retail Translation and Merchandising: Storytelling is Key: Collections should convey the narratives of fluidity, regeneration, and craft. Visual merchandising can highlight natural textures, artisanal details, and the soothing qualities of key colour palettes. Versatility and Functionality: Emphasise garments that serve multiple purposes and adapt to changing lifestyles (e.g., swimwear as festival wear, officewear that transitions to evening). Highlight functional innovations like temperature regulation or wrinkle resistance. Sustainability Showcase: Clearly communicate the eco-credentials of materials and processes. The upcoming Digital Product Passport (from 2027) will necessitate transparency. Pricing and Margin Considerations: Quiet Luxury Investment: Consumers investing in timeless, high-quality pieces may accept higher price points if durability and craftsmanship are evident. Value in Innovation: Sustainable innovations and advanced textile technologies can justify premium pricing, provided benefits are clearly communicated. Competitive Landscape Analysis: Authenticity as Differentiator: Brands that genuinely embody sustainability, inclusivity, and craftsmanship will stand out. Agility in Response: The market is in transition; brands that can adapt quickly to shifting consumer sentiments and supply chain realities will fare better. Pre-Order Strategy: Optimal Timing: Align pre-orders with key industry showcases and trend releases, but build in flexibility for potential market shifts. Demand Forecasting: Utilize data analytics alongside trend insights. Focus on core essentials that align with longevity and quiet luxury, balanced with carefully selected trend-driven pieces. The desire for "renewal, nostalgia, and craftsmanship" suggests a market for both comforting familiarity and unique finds. Risk Mitigation: Prioritise durable, high-quality materials to reduce returns and enhance consumer satisfaction. Given the "transitional period" and potential for societal "eruption," a flexible inventory strategy that can respond to sudden shifts in demand or mood will be crucial. Consider smaller, more frequent drops for trend-sensitive items. By focusing on these key trends and strategic considerations, fashion executives can curate SS26 collections that are not only aesthetically compelling but also resonate deeply with the evolving values and desires of the modern consumer, fostering a more resilient and transparent industry. Swimwear illustration. Maaji SS26 - Beachwear & Maaji SS26 - Beachwear Credits: ©Launchmetrics/spotlight The SS26 trend overview executive article, based on previous published articles, was written with the help of AI FashionUnited uses AI tools to read and research large amounts of data. For this article over 20 trend articles were used. Articles created with the help of AI are checked and edited by a human desk editor prior to going online. If you have questions or comments about this process email us at info@ Read more:
Telegraph
31-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Telegraph
Julianne Moore's suit is the grown-up way to wear double denim
Double denim. Two words which can strike fear into even the most confident of dressers, conjuring images of Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake in those matching 'Canadian tuxedos' from the early 2000s. It is, however, possible to rock jean on jean in ways that feel surprisingly elegant and cool. Julianne Moore gave us a double-denim masterclass last week when she wore a denim suit to an event celebrating the launch of the capsule collection she co-designed with Californian label Frank and Eileen, which will be available to buy this autumn. Comprising a single-breasted, loose-fit denim blazer in mid blue with matching wide-leg jeans, the head-to-toe denim ensemble felt understated. Yet, styled as Moore did – with chunky gold jewellery and glowing make-up – it looked decidedly polished. It was a great evening look, as easy to pull off as it was elegant. This is the sophisticated way to do double denim for those over 40. 'Double denim has come a long way from its once-taboo status,' says stylist Nadia Phillips, who wore a Frankie Shop cropped indigo denim jacket and matching wide-leg jeans to London Fashion Week. 'When done right, it looks effortlessly cool, especially when adding contrast with accessories, or playing with proportions and shapes.' According to trend forecaster WGSN's spring/summer 2025 report, this summer will see a shift towards denim tailoring and office wear, while wide-leg jeans will retain their spot as the dominant silhouette for another season, accounting for 27.1 per cent of the market. 'I've seen people wear a full denim look to meetings or dinners and look seriously chic,' says stylist and content creator Felicity Bird, whose background in retail consultancy means she understands corporate dress codes. 'It's just about styling it with polish. Think sharp accessories, a heel or loafer, and a clean white shirt or silk camisole.' Still not sold on the idea of wearing double denim to your next board meeting or birthday dinner? A quick look at some recent runway moments might inspire, particularly the washed denim pleat-front palazzo pants and matching blazer Ralph Lauren showed for this season, an elegant look for a client meeting or spring lunch; or the ultra-polished indigo denim jacket and trouser combinations Tory Burch and Ulla Johnson showed in their autumn/winter 2025 collections, both of which had easy evening appeal. 'Denim is evolving beyond its casual roots, with designers incorporating structured tailoring and high-end finishes that make it suitable for formal settings,' says Phillips. 'Bottega Veneta and Saint Laurent have introduced dark, sleek denim suits that feel more like modern tailoring than traditional denim, while Brunello Cuccinelli pairs denim blazers with cashmere turtlenecks, elevating the look.' It's not just luxury brands that are serving brilliant denim suiting. High street names from Cos to Sézane, Paige, Levi's and Me+Em have launched interpretations this season. And once you've got your head around the idea of a denim 'suit', you realise its charm as a wonderfully versatile styling piece (there's a reason Me+Em's jacket is called the 'Wear With Everything Blazer'). After all, denim goes with everything, and the parts of a denim suit can be worn together or separately ensuring maximum mileage. The trick is to ensure both pieces are the same shade. Opt for good quality, minimally stretchy fabrics and structured fits, then pair with luxe fabrics like silk, suede and polished leather. A belt can also be useful to break up a look, just avoid big buckles which can veer a little too rodeo. 'Totême does really elegant denim that feels grown-up – their straight-leg jeans and jackets are great if you want something polished,' says Bird. 'I also love Citizens of Humanity for a more relaxed feel (its horseshoe jeans are a favourite), and Agolde is brilliant for trend-led cuts that still feel wearable – its low-slung baggy styles are so good. For high street, Arket and Cos have nailed the minimal look this season.' How to wear a denim suit For day 'Play on the slightly 1970s feel of a denim suit by adding a ruffle white cotton blouse and tan accessories,' says Florrie Thomas, stylist and co-founder of personal shopping platform Wrapp10. Sézane's Christie jacket and matching high-waisted flares have a similar feel that would work well. Christie jacket, £170, and Martin trousers, £125, Sézane Alternatively, Phillips and Bird suggest making it more relaxed with a white tee or tank, straight leg vintage wash jeans and ballet flats or trainers. Effortless but still pulled together. As summer draws near, don't rule out the possibility of a denim blazer styled with shorts, either matching or leather, and strappy mules. Cos has a single-breasted blazer and matching Bermuda shorts that's comfortable but cool. For work For work, look for structured silhouettes – sharp lapels and defined shoulders. Simkhai and Paige both have great options, each with a slightly cinched waist that's super flattering. 'Layer over a white tee or fine knit with smart loafers and a sleek bag,' says Bird, 'to keep it elevated but not too try-hard.' For evening 'For evening, opt for indigo denim for a smarter look or juxtapose your favourite pair with sparkly heels and a tuxedo shirt or blazer,' says Thomas. And don't forget to up the ante on accessories: a pair of diamanté earrings, red lipstick and slicked back hair take denim from daywear to dinner ready. If you'd rather break it up, Phillips suggests pairing an oversized indigo denim blazer with shoulder pad details with black trousers and a fitted tank top and a great heel for a sleek, monochrome outfit. Shop the look
Yahoo
25-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
How car interiors are sparking new levels of creativity
BMW's Neue Klasse concept previewed a bold new direction for its future cabins After decades of ubiquitous grey, black and cream interiors, car makers are finally experimenting with more adventurous combinations of colours and materials. The new Fiat Grande Panda pairs a blue dashboard and seat upholstery with yellow mood lighting; Mini is stitching bold, brightly coloured patterns into the Aceman's dashboard and door linings; and Volvo is using recycled plastic from discarded PVC windows for some of its interior materials paired with recycled fishing nets for floor mats in its EX30. As we usher in, at long last, an era of more adventurous and innovative and uplifting cabin design, here are the developments and trends that will shape your next car's cockpit. Tesla popularised the trend for dark and light contrasts, but the interior of the Lexus LF-ZL SUV concept shows us what's possible when designers go to town on pairing opposites. As well as coupling grey, light brown and off-white, Lexus has combined materials with very different textures, including ribbed door panels and shag carpet. This is a step too far for widespread application, but more daring use of contrasting colours and materials is coming imminently. Genesis went all in on gothic tones for its Neolun SUV concept, but the trend for dark purple is expected to translate in more subtle ways to more mainstream vehicles over the next year or so. The colour of 2024, Apricot Crush (according to trend analysis firm WGSN), has been used liberally in the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X concept's cabin (above). Urangoo Samba, head of colour at WGSN, says the tone 'speaks to today's consumers who seek light and positivity'. Similar warm colours are set to make their way to production this year on details such as seatbelts, cubbyholes and mood lighting, as previewed inside the Skoda Epiq concept. Audi's Activesphere concept's upholstery and door fabric transition seamlessly from black to red, creating a moody, high-end atmosphere. Such tonal gradients are on the verge of going mainstream, having been spotted in Nissan's 2023 Hyper Adventure concept and the new Mini Countryman. The decision to focus on either contrasts or seamless transitions could become an important differentiating factor between brands in the future. 3D printing has made production of intricately detailed objects and more customisation commercially viable. Renault, for example, is using it on a range of colourful storage bins in its new 5 E-Tech. With owners looking to stamp their personality onto their cars, increased customisation of interior details is becoming a hot trend. Car makers are experimenting with smart surfaces to create simpler, less cluttered environments. Smart materials appear plain but contain hidden technology that comes alive when desired. The BMW i Vision Dee concept's woven dash doubles as a control panel and projects infotainment onto the windscreen. Smart surfaces are likely to be commonplace inside high-end interiors by the end of the decade, transforming them into boutique spaces for work or relaxation. by Aysar Ghassan ]]>
