4 Trends To Try This Summer
With the summer season ramping up, there are so many trends to experiment with this season.
I’ve noticed several new trends gaining popularity on social media and can confidently say that I’m eager to incorporate them in my outfits as well!
Statement Belts and Necklaces
My favorite trend this season has to be statement belts and necklaces.Among the various trends, statement belts and necklaces have captured my favor this season. These accessories not only lend themselves well to thrifting, but they possess the remarkable ability to enhance the allure of even the most uncomplicated ensemble. Notably, Max Mara's fall/winter collection for 2023 exemplified the usage of statement belts to perfect a look. The collection showcased an array of business casual outfits, each expertly adorned with one or two key accessories to elevate the overall appearance.
Max Mara’s 2023 fall/winter collection consisted of neutral pieces with statement belts. Source: Max Mara
In order to rock such a loud piece, one should make sure to dress strategically. A statement piece may be too heavy if there’s several patterns and textures mixed together, so a plain outfit may be the safest bet. But again, experimenting doesn’t hurt.
Statement belts serve as a valuable tool for breaking up visual complexity within an outfit. From my perspective, the most successful approach to wearing a statement belt involves pairing it with a monochromatic ensemble, allowing the belt to become the focal point, thereby enhancing the cohesiveness and impact of the attire.
As for statement necklaces, many celebrities have been wearing bigger and chunkier necklaces recently. Personally, I was convinced when Zendaya wore a large Bulgari necklace with colorful Bulgari Diamonds to the SAG Awards back in February. The necklace paired with her baby pink dress was the perfect combination because they both muted colors made it so that neither piece was overpowering the other. The look was perfectly complemented by her pink eyeshadow, effectively pulling the look together.
Zendaya stuns with a Bulgari multicolored necklace at the SAG Awards in February. Source: Amy Sussman, Getty Images
I 100% believe that jewelry can make or break a look. One of my favorite looks this year was Anne Hathaway’s Met Gala look. While her dress undoubtedly commanded attention, she struck the perfect balance by pairing it with a Bulgari Monete choker. Hathaway’s combination of the white and gold Versace dress with the chunky necklace made for a balanced look.You would think a chunky gold necklace would take away from the dress, but it complimented the look enough to not be too heavy on her chest.
Anne Hathaway walks the MET Gala red carpet wearing a Bulgari necklace with a custom Versace dress Source: Jamie Mccarthy, Getty Images
Ballet Flats
Another trend I predict is going to continue its domination are ballet flats. They’re a staple in one’s closet and can be worn casually as well as in formal settings. Compared to loafers, ballet flats offer a lighter, more breathable option for the warmer seasons. Bella Hadid’s take on the trend had me in love. Her Instagram post included her wearing them with scrunched socks and a corduroy skirt.I love her earth-toned outfit with the ballet flats because it isn’t too over-the-top and provides balance. I’ve never seen anyone pair them with socks before, but after seeing her do it, I’m sure many of her fans are influenced.
Bella Hadid pairs her ballet flats with mauve socks that match her crop top. Source: @bellahadid’s Instagram
Mermaid-core
Mermaid-core has made its way into this season’s trends. From wet-looking pieces, to small ruffle details, and an abundance of pearls, we see mermaid inspired details everywhere! Versace's spring ready-to-wear collection exemplifies the essence of mermaid-core through its flowing, ethereal garments that mimic the movement of fabric underwater. My favorite piece from the collection is the Handkerchief Hem Knit Dress in the dark orchid color. The asymmetrical ruffles, the mesh fabric, and the slight flare invoke the mermaid look. If paired with some pearl jewelry it would achieve the quintessential mermaid look.
Mika Schneider struts the Versace Handkerchief Hem Knit Dress in a monochromatic outfit as the 18th look for the show. Source: Victor VIRGILE/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images
If you don’t want to purchase new items to experiment with the mermaid-core trend, you can always upgrade what you already have in your closet. Tiktokker @cherienesss makes her own custom mermaid-inspired heels with spray paint and accessories that can be found in a craft store.
I loved how easy it was for her to transform an old pair of metallic heels and turn them into a completely different shoe. The mini pearls were a great touch as they add so much femininity without outdoing the obvious showstopper, the starfish. This DIY is something anyone can do at home if they’re looking to give an old pair of shoes a new life (and a new look).
I definitely see myself incorporating each of these trends in my own wardrobe in the upcoming months. I think combining mesh and some statement pieces together would be perfect in order to achieve the mermaid core look. And as for the statement belts and necklaces trending this season, I feel inspired to try out layering my many belts and necklaces together to achieve the look. This summer, trying out these new trends is a great way to expand one’s tastes and style!