FASHION TRENDS WHICH WILL SHINE BRIGHTEST THIS SUMMER – AND WHY

June 7, 2023

By Anna Halpenny, Senior Womenswear Designer, Whispering Smith 

Summer is fast-approaching, and the official start of the season later this month will see the dawn of a host of new fashion trends ideal for the perfect look.

The latest trends are heavily influenced by looks from the four key fashion shows in New York, London, Milan and Paris. 

Here at Whispering Smith we were paying attention to all the designers showcasing their work at each of these prestigious events. And we’ve also been monitoring the most popular trends among our clients and across the industry as a whole. 

Our team has trawled through the best collections and pulled together what we believe will be the must have trends in our wardrobes through July, August and hopefully way into September.

Here are our predictions for what we think will shine brightest this Summer:

Double denim (AKA The Canadian tuxedo) e.g maxi skirts with denim corset-look tops or straight leg jeans with denim shirt.

Why? Once the butt of jokes and a bona-fide fashion crime, double denim has completely turned the tables. No wardrobe is complete without a Canadian Tuxedo. 

Crochet tops and dresses in neutrals or mixed back with black.

Why? Crochet tops are trending in a big way for 2023. They are synonymous with free-spirited dressing, and crochet always reliably makes a comeback around festival season. 

Low rise (shorts, skirts, trousers, jeans) in a few cuts e.g. bootcut/flared, boyfriend, wide leg denim or cargo.

Why? Stylish and comfortable. Low rise ticks both boxes which is why they are flying off the shelves more than ever before.

Asymmetrical dresses and tops in mesh/chiffon in floral prints.
Why? What’s not to love? Picking the right asym dress can help you to stand out from the crowd with custom-made pieces that reflect your personal style. They have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their unique and stylish designs. 

Knee length shorts in various fabrics e.g. linen, denim, cargo.

Why? Stylish and comfortable, the longer shorts can work with any outfit regardless of what you wear—making them a versatile and vital addition to the wardrobe..

Lingerie look e.g. corsets, lace-up detailing, lace trims, sheer fabrics

Why? For many, many years now underwear as outerwear has been in. Celebrities have been rocking the style for decades. and it shows little sign of stopping over the Summer. But it doesn’t have to be too revealing. The look is getting even baggier and more unfussy. 

We also think the following micro trends will be popular over the Summer, all of which are available via our product ranges.

‘Europecore’ – escapism/European holiday trend is big right now.  International, romantic escapism and hyper-feminine.  Look out for flowing ruffle/lace skirts, white linen dresses, Lace trim, puff sleeves and corsets detailing with a distinctly vintage look. 

Quiet Luxury/Scandi Girl Minimalist and relaxed. Think simple, slouchy shirts in linens and cotton stripes will be big. As will 00s mix and match – mixing vintage graphic jersey pieces, in a variety of colours with lace, leather and structured denim pieces.  

Utilitarian/00s  – pleated mini skirts and a-line skirts are flying out. Mesh prints tops, dresses and skirts are a Summer wardrobe staple. Also textured jerseys and longline tops are ever popular.  

Dreamy Romance Dresses which are softer and chiffon based with asymmetrical hems and ruffle detailing are proving popular. Washed out and watercolour layered florals are too, along with  vintage rose prints.

Summer Meadow – The new cottage-core look – Italian Girl Style is massive right now. So too are vintage coloured laces in faded Laura Ashley style prints.