Trends of Spring/Summer 2023
Let’s redefine the meaning of ‘trends’. Trends and I have a love-hate relationship. On one hand, there are the ‘what-ifs’: trying new items you’d never dare wear before, helping you find your sense of self. On the other hand, there are the microtrends: clothes you never wanted and ones you won’t wear. These are the trends that, to be frank, died before you even found the time to pick up your parcel.
I used to fall victim to microtrends. I was neglecting their harm to the planet, its resources, and fashion as an art form. I was also dishonouring my creativity. Microtrends are addictive—just like scrolling on TikTok or falling into autopilot on Hinge. You’re left unsatisfied, wanting more, but from somewhere else. But I’ve learned that the same kick of serotonin can be found within—not as instantly, but more fulfilling. Good things take time, right?
To ease your way away from fast fashion, try shopping for second-hand items. Never shame yourself for liking trends. Instead, focus on the core values of fashion: creativity, art, and expression, and how to achieve them. Personally, I aim for nostalgia. I want to feel inspired—like I’m five years old again, watching my mother and her friends dress for dinner parties. I want to feel the same rush I did at age twelve, stealing my sister’s clothes and imitating Christina Aguilera’s Y2K looks. Use trends as a guide to finding your style. But do it with love. Be cautious about how you consume. Be patient, not impulsive. Prioritize long-lasting items. Borrow your friend’s clothing. Don’t neglect your own. Take a walk down memory lane; everything comes back in style, as my mother likes to remind me. What is trending today already exists—enjoy the hunt of finding it.
Now, let me present to you, my fashion predictions of the Spring/Summer season of 2023:
The beloved and timeless, fitted, jacket.
After months of hiding behind layers and wearing winter coats, people want to show their figures. After the pandemic, oversized jumpers are out, along with their restrictions. Wear your lighter-fit items this spring as you wave goodbye to a three-year hibernation!
Image Credits: @velvetreprise on Instagram
Lighter jewelry.
In 2022, the world said its goodbyes to beloved designer Vivienne Westwood. We now bear her Dorina Moon Silver-tone necklace as tribute. After layering up in lockdown, going simple with one necklace, if any, will be the trend of 2023. Prancing through will be much smoother without the weight of too many jewels. In 2022, the world said its goodbyes to the beloved designer Vivienne Westwood. We now wear her Dorina Moon Silver-tone necklace as a tribute. After layering up in lockdown, going simple with one necklace—if any—will be the trend of 2023. Prancing through summer will be much smoother without the weight of too many jewels.
Image Credits: @velvetreprise on Instagram
Shorter hair.
Our hair went through a lot in the past year—bangs, red hair, and blowouts with the Dyson! What all these hairstyles have in common is their need for upkeep. As a breath of fresh air, I predict we’ll see a lot of refreshing shoulder-length haircuts in the upcoming months.
Image Credits: @emmachamberlain on Instagram
Lace.
We saw many dark, lace-inspired New Year’s looks this past year. Was it a tease for its comeback? I think so. But this time, in lighter tones! It may be time to ask your parents about their hidden Haute Bohemian closet from the ’70s or start looking for your dusty white lace tops purchased during the infamous ‘Tumblr’ era.
Image Credits: @rubylyn_ on Instagram
Playful picks.
Life is hard. Let’s have fun this summer, and find beauty in the little things. For example, nostalgia from the light pinks and bright blues we loved as kids, beaded handbags that make your linen pants pop, and sheer scarfs that look like they came straight out of Disney.Life is hard. Let’s have fun this summer and find beauty in the little things. For example, nostalgia from the light pinks and bright blues we loved as kids, beaded handbags that make your line
Image Credits: @lovevie on Instagram
