Refresh your style for 2024 with these key trends dominating the summer and beyond. Draw inspiration from these charming, yet wearable aesthetics, and give your wardrobe a sartorial update.
There’s always something exciting about a brand new season, and this summer is no exception. With designers sending out one fabulous look after the other, there is a zing of optimism in the air. Naturally, as this is the time when nature comes alive, botanical motifs and all manner of fauna are taking center stage. Denim is making its triumphant return, albeit with relaxed and modern silhouettes. Surprisingly, sequins and shine are also making a dazzling impression.
Our obsession with quiet luxury is still alive and well, now given a preppy, academic spin. Think Saltburn and its nod to heritage and luxury, plus our idealized notions of higher learning’s hallowed institutions. Naturally, with tropical vacations on the horizon, it’s only fitting our wardrobes be just as idyllic. With all these intriguing looks, there’s never a better time, or a better excuse to go shopping.
Coastal Living
The appeal of living by the seaside is undeniable, bolstered by the promise of warm breezes and perennial sunshine. With the Philippines boasting more than 7000 islands, we’re never too far away from the beach. Get ready for summer sojourns with gorgeous swimwear, and sophisticated eyewear, that’s certain to make you any resort’s most enigmatic and alluring guest.
However, if sandy shores aren’t yet on your horizon, fear not. Channel the same tropical vibe with languid dresses topped off with layers of golden splendor, like those from Charriol. A woven bag, on the other hand, is a must-have for lounging by the sea. They’re just as splendid in the city, and imbue outfits with a quaint charm.
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Summer Beauty
Additionally, rising temperatures necessitate a shift to beauty that’s light and breezy, with a natural feel. Spritz on a summery scent to transport you to an instant holiday, like Aerin’s Hibiscus Palm. The sun-kissed concoction is a mix of lotus flower, hibiscus, frangipani, coconut, ylang ylang and vanilla, that’s certain to remind you of paradise. Create a juicy pout with a gloss like Strokes’ Silk Kiss. Infused with Vitamin E and other nourishing ingredients, it leaves a sheer wash of color and a soft shine.
And while lounging on vacation, make sure your skincare game’s still on point. Sisleÿa L’Integral Anti-Age Fresh Gel Cream helps address the signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles with it’s unique cocktail of active ingredients. It also revitalizes the skin and makes it appear plumper, while boasting a lightweight formulation perfect for a hot and humid climate. Don’t forget to give lips a summery pop of color with Happy Skin’s Shut Up And Kiss Me Moisturing Matte Lippie. With it’s convenient crayon format, and hydrating formulation, this fan favorite a must-have for touching up one’s look while on the go.
Naturally, no summer beauty routine would be complete without amazing sunscreens, like Nuxe’s Light Sun Fluid. The lotion instantly melts onto the complexion, and also has hyacinth extract to hydrate the skin and help strengthen its natural barrier. For ultimate convenience, you’ll also love the Nuxe Delicious Sun Spray, which also moisturizes for that bare skin feeling. Sola’s Foundation Primer is yet another fab find, which protects and helps smoothens the skin, while giving it a sheer matte coverage.
Denim and Blues
The return of denim to the height of fashion has been a few years coming. With the rise of 90s and Y2K nostalgia, it was merely a matter of time before this streetwear fave dominated the sartorial conversation. Emerging in relaxed silhouettes, jeans are the perfect counterpoint to dressy tops and glamorous accessories, like those from Jimmy Choo’s spring line. Meanwhile, rendered in jackets, tops and A-line skirts, they give outfits a youthful spin at Louis Vuitton and paired well with the brand’s denim and pastel purses.
The cool tones of this rugged fabric also lend itself to this season’s most vibrant beauty looks, like in the case of Chanel. This summer, eyes are shimmery and lined in electric blue, with Chanel’s Les Ombres 4 Rivage palette. Alternatively, cheeks and lips are warmed with coral to finish off the summery vibe.
of Chanel.
Natural Selection
Summer is when nature really comes alive, with flowers in bloom and trees filled with ripening fruit. As such, it’s not hard to imagine how designers are constantly inspired by the beauty of flora and fauna. Witness as floral prints make their way down the runways. They’re oversized at Alexander McQueen, collaged at Marni, and three-dimensional at Simone Rocha. The rosette chokers and floral fabric accents of the noughties have likewise made an appearance, at Kate Spade, Balmain, and Oscar de La Renta.
Perfumes are also getting a summer refresh, replete with sweet and juicy fruity notes and bold floral accents. To wit, Coach’s Love blends the scent of ripe strawberries with red roses, amidst a cedarwood base. The flirty fragrance opens up bright, before revealing its feminine heart. The gorgeous colors of MAC’s MACximal Silky Matte Lipstick just as succulent. Made with coconut oil, shea butter, and cocoa butter, they glide on effortlessly and imbue lips with long-lasting and saturated color.
For the stylish hostess, Casa Juans’ Ibon collection is certain to set hearts aflutter. Inspired by the country’s biodiversity, plates are decorated with beautiful birds that are endemic to the archipelago. What’s more, a portion of the proceeds from their sales are dedicated to supporting the programs of Reach Out and Feed Philippines. Through this, the brand hopes can spread awareness about the need for nutrition-rich meals for less privileged school children.
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Luxe Academia
Combine preppy collegiate style, with the quiet luxury of the Ivy League, and you get the of-the-moment aesthetic called academia. Romanticizing the looks associated with exclusive scholarly institutions, it’s a trend that sees itself expressed in layered ensembles, heritage prints, and school colors.
For spring, Ferragamo sent out a bevy of tailored pieces complemented by roomy leather bags in inventive silhouettes. Longchamp likewise embraces the university vibe, launching a collection combining sporty codes and nod to the 70s.
of Longchamp.
Meanwhile, Givenchy espoused a softer take, mixing muted pastels with warm beiges and browns. Draw inspiration from classically tailored blazers and pencil skirts, that are given a sexier spin mixed in with sheer blouses and dresses. Fendi, it seems, is likewise a fan of the muted color palette. Inventive geometry, however, gives the looks a modern and artistic spin, with bags like the Flip, playfully transforming from a tote to a clutch.
Naturally, what’s more old school than a classic watch, especially one that you can lovingly pass on from generation to generation. Rolex’s quintessential timepieces are the epitome of timelessness, and can elevate any ensemble. Montblanc’s messenger bag makes for a great addition to any collegiate look, rendered in an eye catching burgundy. That these understated accents will be just as covetable in the years to come is of course an added boon.
READ ALSO: Smartly Dressed: The Origins And Evolution Of Preppy Fashion
Summer Shine
While sequins and shine may normally have been indulgences relegated to the fall, this season is clearly an exception. From glistening evening wear, to bedazzled dresses, designers have put the spotlight on luminous textiles. Dazzle in an evening gown crafted of megawatt metallics, or imbue daywear with a bit of fun via a shiny skirt, or top. Opt for more relaxed silhouettes, and clever layering, to give your outfits a day-appropriate spin.
Meanwhile, bags are also getting their dose of sparkle and make for a radiant accompaniment to any ensemble. Finish off your look with a sparkling scent, like Bulgari’s Omnia Crystalline. A bright and aquatic floral, the perfume is a sweet blend of pear, bamboo, lotus and tea notes.
Banner photo of Natalia Vodianova photographed by Vanina Sorrenti from Ferragamo’s Spring Summer 2024 campaign, courtesy of SSI and Ferragamo.
