By Sophia Harris / Columnist
While it currently feels like the North Pole here in Nashville, spring is upon us, and I can confidently say that most of us are eager for the turn of the season. Soon, the long stretch of feeling cold and buried in clothing will be over, and the world will once again start to bloom with floral prints and pastel hues.
This year, designers are taking timeless spring styles and letting them evolve into something more contemporary. After analyzing various runway shows, Glamour Magazine released a list of the top trends to look for as the weather warms up. These new styles span a variety of looks; from elevated athleisure to high society chic, there is something for everyone.
Firstly, the effortless, bohemian way of dressing has stuck around. Freedom and creativity are at the essence of bohemian chic, which originated from the bohemian lifestyle of the 1960s and 70s. Although this aesthetic has been popular for a while now, designers like Armani, Fendi, Valentino, and Chloé are taking it down a more whimsical path. By using sheer fabrics, beading, and embroidery, these brands are giving this earthy style a hint of sophistication.
It is not just clothing that is synthesizing elegance and eclecticness, American brands Elena Velez and Cucculelli Shaheen draped long, flowing ribbons and gorgeous gold jewelry in their models’ hair to complete their runway looks.
It is exciting to see designers finesse this timeless style; however, you do not need to buy haute couture to look like you just walked off of a bohemian-themed runway. Anyone can achieve this look by throwing on some lace tights or tossing their hair into a messy bun.
Additionally, athleisure has jogged onto the runway this spring, with Ferragamo, who was inspired by ballet, Tory Burch, who was influenced by swimming, and Tod’s, who took a track-themed route. All of these designers paid special attention to color, texture, and layering to allow these comfortable garments to appear put together.
Coastal inspired clothing is also all the rage this upcoming season. With elements of both East Coast Prep and Nautical, brands like Miu Miu, Sacai, and Proenza Schouler used sailor flares, breton stripes, flap collars, boat shoes, seashells, gold buttons, and nautical netting to take us straight to Nantucket.
Chanel is world renowned for its timeless tweed pieces that have come to define the old-money aesthetic. Now, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Celine are going in a similar direction. As more designers emphasize these types of designs, other brands like Zara have started to mimic these trends. It has become clear that what used to be reserved for “ladies who lunch” can now be worn by just about anybody.
Another trend that has hit a rebound is the slim fit jean. Alix Earle helped this silhouette skyrocket, and it has been embraced by Prada, McQueen, Sportmax, Mugler, and Aaron Esh. However, it is important to distinguish this cut as being slim and not “skinny.” While the skinny jean fits tightly around the entire leg, the slim fit jean flares out ever so slightly at the ankle, making it just a touch more comfortable and arguably more flattering.
In addition to honing in on classic designs, this year’s spring fashion is characterized by lots of fun. Designers have decided that more really is more as they accessorize their masterpieces to a point of excess. Coach decorated its new bags with faux stickers, Chopova Lowena coated hair bows and sneakers with studs, and Moschino and Saint Laurent heavily adorned their models with bold jewelry.
On the other hand, Prada and Bottega Veneta have taken a new approach to the Prep School aesthetic. This style has previously fit cleanly and evenly into an organized, pleated package, but these designers have taken these lines and made them asymmetrical. They know the rules, but have chosen to break them in a way that makes sense, that is what Prep School 2.0 is all about.
Runway look from Bottega Veneta spring summer ’25 show.
Finally, there is a massive movement to make women’s workwear more minimalistic and masculine while still being professional. Gone are the days where women have to suffer in discomfort to be a part of the workforce. Victoria Beckham and Saint Laurent displayed loose jackets and trousers, Tory Burch and Toteme highlighted clean lines, and Jacquemus and Peter Do showcased full, pleated skirts with lots of movement and breathing room.
This spring, designers have dug deep into past styles and rekindled the magic within them. However, what is even more beautiful about these fashions is the room for self-expression. Because there are many different design themes, people have the ability to choose which type of clothing best suits them. Designers have found the spark in the clothing; now the clothing can help illuminate our own inspirations.
