S/S TRENDS TO WEAR NOW (THAT YOU MIGHT ALREADY OWN)

This year, I am very much trying not to purchase new clothes despite the daily temptation from social media and from my job as a Communications Director in fashion.

As I’ve gotten older (and I guess really grasped what my day-to-day uniform is) should I make a purchase, I make smarter choices. I look for pieces that offer longevity – shopping for my wardrobe in the way we shop for our homes. Focusing on well-made, reliable pieces, those classic ‘wear forever’ items rather than heavily trend-led pieces.

Now whilst I would love to sit here and tell you that I live and dress every day from a capsule wardrobe, it would be a lie. I, like most (I think) love the feeling you get from purchasing something new – the thrill and the anticipation of its arrival. So this got me thinking, how else can we satisfy our thirst for something new? Do we need more stuff or do we already own the pieces that will make up our Spring 2020 looks and beyond? As my job in fashion relies on my knowledge of new trends,  I’ve dissected them with this in mind, trying to find a balance between the two. 

SUITS YOU

Tailoring, and suits in particular, have been around for a few seasons now and aren’t going anywhere. But this season we’ve seen the rise of the short and skirt suit. Not feeling brave enough to rock a full suit? No worries, look for tailoring separates – a blazer (think oversized and longer in length) or a pair of tailored trousers (go high waisted and wide legged) worn with a simple tee and trainers. For a real 2020 update (now these you may need to purchase) opt for a Bermuda short as seen at Chloe and Victoria Beckham or a waistcoat (yes, you have read correctly, it does say waistcoat).  

SUMMER LEATHER 

Ok, I know what you are thinking, leather in summer… really? Yes, really. You’re going to have to trust me on this one. Leather has been creeping back onto the catwalks for a few seasons now and S/S designers, most notably Bottega Veneta, showed classic pieces in both lightweight (thank god) and coloured styles. Leather also made an appearance as outerwear but think leather trench coats or oversized shirts rather than biker jackets. Believe it or not, this look is one of the easiest to achieve. If it’s too much for you, approach as separates – team those leather trousers with a simple t-shirt or leather shirt with denim (Arket is great for leather items right now).

DRESSES

Dresses in summer are a no brainer and this season, it was all about  full on, dominate-the-room statement dresses (see our versatile dress edit here) or, at the other end of the spectrum: minimal white dresses. The white dress is a cult summer fashion staple and will serve you well for many years to come – opt for white cotton, midi or maxi in length or volume sleeves (preferably all of the above – I’d head to Zara, & Other Stories and  COS) . For an instant update, team your favourite dress with trekking sandals – some my favourites include the original Teva, Arizona Love’s vintage bandana wrapped trekky styles or Suicoke for more of a fash-shuan look.

STYLE TIP: For me, off-white is just that little bit more flattering (and chic) than bright white and it can look great when worn head to toe. If in doubt wear all the same (or shades of the same) colour. If you are a curvier gal like me, please don’t shy away from this trend, off-white really works for all body types – the trick is to focus on finding the right shapes for your body type rather than concentrating on the colour.

STATEMENT COLLARS 

For me, there is something about a crisp shirt that effortlessly elevates any pair of trousers. Don’t be afraid to consider men’s shirts especially if looking for a more oversized fit (where I sit on the shirt spectrum). Focus on wide (sometimes pointed) statement collars. Now I know what you thinking: John Travolta in ‘Saturday Night Fever’ – and to be fair, you are not far off. Opt for block colours or for a more subtle approach, team with similar colours for a tonal look (you could easily pick up secondhand, too). Have I convinced you yet? If not, perhaps Victoria Beckham and JW Anderson at Loewe can persuade you…

MIDI SKIRT 

The midi skirt is here to stay and chances are: you probably already own one. Looking for a new way to style it outside of classic tee and trainers? Consider wearing a more oversized/heavy silhouette on top and don’t be afraid of opting for a longer length.

TRAINERS

I couldn’t be happier that trainers are still very much in fashion! Go for classic and sportier shapes in muted go-with-everything-tones with a slightly chunkier sole. Some of my faves include:

Barely There Sandal

I have always been a fan of the barely there / strappy sandal both heeled and flat. If you bought a pair last season, stick with them. If you’re yet to buy, opt for a heeled thong style.