SPRING/SUMMER 2017 TRENDS

Words By Kendra Hunsley

Spring/Summer 2017 runway shows saw an array of juxtaposed colours and silhouettes, creating a sense of rebellion towards the rules of fashion. Evidently throughout runway seasons, trend comebacks are not a new phenomenon. However, SS 2017 comebacks debuted with a twist. From wearing underwear as outerwear to unconventional spins to basic staples, here are the menswear and womenswear Spring/Summer Trends for 2017.

Deconstructed Shirting

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We all know that a basic shirt is absolutely a staple and has endless pairing abilities, but SS 2017 has seen a more unconventional way of wearing this wardrobe staple. The traditional shirt has now transformed and has been deconstructed, draped and tailored, creating versatility and freshness to an item that you can very easily run out of cool ways to style. Monse is partly responsible for this new aged way of wearing the menswear inspired shirt as they were one of the first in fashion to introduce a more unique approach to shirts. From shoulder cut outs and off-the-shoulder styles, to ruffled and over-sized sleeves, the list is endless. Designers like Alexander Wang and Prada, to name a few, had models strutting down the runway looking disheveled (in a good way) in their deconstructed pieces. Street Style is no stranger to this new trend has we’ve seen an overflow of fashion bloggers and style influencers adding their own personal touch to this unconventional trend.

Bold Shoulders

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Slim fit suits will soon be so last season – think loose, oversized and bold shoulder coats and shirts for menswear this summer. Balenciaga embodied this trend and even went as far as inserting whalebone rods across the shoulders of coats and jackets, creating hulking power shoulders. Brands such as Jill Sander, Raf Simons and Lanvin incorporated this trend in a different way by introducing loose and slightly longer short-sleeved shirts with wider shoulders, box like silhouettes and off the shoulder seams, creating a laid back and casual feel.

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Bralettes over Everything

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One of my personal favorite trends this summer is definitely bralettes over shirts, t-shirts and even dresses. If you haven’t been fortunate enough to witness this trend then you’re probably living under a rock because it’s EVERYWHERE. As I mentioned before, we have seen a sense of rebellion in fashion as of late. Styles that say ‘to hell with fashion rules’, and pairing together items you wouldn’t necessarily pair, but they surprisingly work. Seriously, if you told me a few years ago that we’d soon be wearing our bras over our shirts; I would’ve probably laughed in your face. This trend takes wearing underwear as outwear to a whole new level and I am all for it.

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Backpacks

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This basic staple has been updated; from multiple pockets to an assortment of colours and embroideries, designers have added stylish and trendy elements to this practical item.

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Utility

Boy Scout inspired pieces with a stylish and modern twist; utility has come a long way. Loose silhouettes in earthy tones such as white, cream and tan add a more lightness and comfortable feel to this practical and functional trend. Windcheaters, backpacks, scandals and hats debuted on the runway, creating a sense of desire for the Outback.

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Athleisure

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I hate to break it to you but this trend is here to stay. Athleisure is a more versatile type of apparel as opposed to its counterpart, Sportsluxe. This trend showed out in a big way both on the runway and street style. Adding more of a stylish approach to sportswear, this trend allows for a more comfortable and sporty look without having to sacrifice style. Designers like Tommy Hilfiger and Stella Jean were more literal and stuck to the athletic trend, while designers like Celine and Acne adapted the trend without actually looking like they could pass for gym clothes. Comfortable style is key. It’s a yes from me.

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And It Was All Yellow

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This might not be the first colour that springs to mind but yellow came all the way through in menswear SS ’17. Gucci, Hermes and Alexander McQueen are some of the brands who showcased yellow ensembles, ranging from more mustard tones to bold and bright yellow. This show-stopping trend will be sure to have onlookers doing a double-take.

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Robes

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We’ve seen pyjama dressing and slip dresses cause a stir in fashion, so it was only a matter of time for robes to make its debut. Loungewear as outerwear is definitely a thing and has been quite visible on the runway and street style as of late. From wearing a robe as a wrap jacket to a gown, this boudoir-esque trend exudes seduction and elegance. This versatile trend gives you the comfort of your home, allowing you the pleasure of lounging about in your humble abode or lunching with your girls, both being perfectly appropriate events to show it off. No one does this trend better than Rihanna- see proof below.

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Slogan Tees

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Due to the current upheaval within political and social environments, it is no surprised that brands have taken a stance by incorporating ‘statement’ pieces that speak for themselves. Debuting a powerful message down the runway in the form of a t-shirt, along with Beyoncé’s Flawless as the soundtrack, the ‘We Should All Be Feminists” Tee by Dior sent a bold message that had social media spinning, one word- Iconic. What makes this moment even more amazing is the fact that Maria Grazia Chiuri is the first ever appointed female designer for Dior. Talk about Girl Power. Never shying away from talking politics, Prabal Gurung went a step further and introduced a silk dress with famous speeches from prominent women written in fine print. Henry Holland’s “Free to Roam” and Haider Ackermann’s “Be Your Own Hero” are a few of the many designers who sent a message via their ensembles.

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Eighties

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The 80s have made a comeback. As we’ve come to know, fashion repeats itself and it’s no different this season. Bold colors, big shoulders and oversized silhouettes, this trend was at the forefront of SS ’17 shows. Think vintage brooches, tops paired with spandex leggings and neon colours, Balenciaga in particular came out swinging and did not hold back. Gucci took more of a feminine, Princess Diana-esque approach to the 80s trend, while fashion houses like Philosophy and Isabel Marant merely borrowed elements.

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Boiler suits

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Inspired by workwear, Boiler suits are a no-fuss laid-back trend that will be the key item next summer. The boiler suit came in a number of variations and styles as designers added their own twist of originality to the trend. From a more utilitarian feel with muted tones such as grey and beige as seen at Hermes, to metal inspired and fringe detailing as seen at Walter Van Beirendonck’s runway show, this trend has a version to suit every style.