By Annette Sanfilippo
There was a time not so long ago that with every season’s change came the anticipation of the latest fashion trends and ideas. Will we be wearing pucci prints or polka dots? High waists or hip huggers? These days the internet has stolen that from us. Instead of peeping the new styles on display in the windows of our favourite shops, we spend copious amounts of screen time looking at holiday makers, influencers, brands, fashion shows, magazines and boutiques in other parts of the world strutting around in the looks that will eventually hit our shores as the season changes. By the time it arrives our excitement has slightly waned as we’ve been sitting in ‘wait mode’ for months!
One way to keep the excitement brewing is to embrace the few trends that align with your style and personality. You don’t need to indulge in every little fad as it’s much easier to invest in those that work around your current mood and wardrobe. Before the new season’s crazes arrive, think about how you will incorporate some pieces into your wardrobe.
There is a lot to choose from this spring, and those trends look as though they will be hanging around well into the summer months. It’s going to be a playful, pretty, experimental season allowing us to lean into whoever we want to be. The key to getting the look right is finding a silhouette that works for you. Are you into dresses? Do you gravitate to pants and tops? Do you choose fitted or flowy? Once you find your base look, then embrace a few favourites and work them back with your magical touch.
Tell the world what you are thinking by way of your dressing style
If it’s maxi jewelry you love then experiment with bangle stacking, necklace layering, bold earrings, brooches and statement rings. If tassels entice you (it won’t be hard to fall in love with them), then you will need to work out where they look the best. Do they hang off your handbag or off your hemline? Putting an ounce of thought into it all will give you a fabulous and achievable outcome.
Boho is having a big moment in 2026 and beyond, and there is something for everyone. Having walked the streets of Spain, Morrocco, Amsterdam and the beaches of the Adriatic and Mediterranean Seas during August, I could see its influence everywhere on the beautifully dressed people who are frocking it up in the name of fun! From crocheted shoes, fluid flowy fabrics covered in gypsy print and florals, pretty laces, sheer chiffon, festoon pants, scarves and raffia bags in abundance, I saw no end to the frivolity of fashion this season. And it was all framed by a sunny, blue-skied setting. (Sorry, not sorry for being in the warm weather during our dreary August winter!)
It’s time to get bright! I expect to see a sudden flip of our color palette from deep chocolates, maroons and greens to fresh clean pastels such as coral blush, seafoam and pearl.
In contrast, bold patterns like leopard, stripes, polkadots and geo prints surface to complement the mix-and-match season ahead, all backdropped by trusted, steadfast, ever-confident white.
Get ready for all the eye candy; it’s going to be a maximalist take on street fashion. Dare to be different; it’s time to take some fun risks. You might even want to tell the world what you are thinking by way of your dressing style. Our staple T-shirts are getting rebellious and are becoming a form of expressive protest or delivery. Slogans, mantras or announcements like “I dare to wear”, ‘I’m just different’, ‘Bold as” or ‘No frills here” stamped in stand-out fonts feature and highlight as they are worn with tulle skirts, jeans and slip skirts playing down glamour, but still finding a way to stand out in a crowd. This look adds a touch of sass and a show of daring confidence. There are no rules, just a passion to dress up, show up and maybe get noticed.
If you fancy a classic minimal dress code, then the neutrals could be for you; still a popular trend and just as impactful when done well. The traditional styles – often referred to as chic riviera, coastal muse or soiree dressing – pair linens, monochrome colors, neutral shades and unfussy silhouettes with rustic earthy textures like leather, raffia, suede or woven and embroidered threads.
Accessories help bring these looks to life for a polished finish. Bold sunglasses, unique bags, shoes with a point of difference, belts and adventurous jewelry balance to achieve a personalized, chic, effortless elegance with a touch of over-the-top glam.
Are you loving a little gold, silver, sequin or embellishment? Lucky you because the choice is yours this spring; no rules apply. Wear it your way!
So, wipe off those winter blues and prepare some space in your wardrobes as shopping is going to get manic! I’m sure you will find it hard to choose only a few. I’ve already got three new bags!
Enjoy spring and have fun in the sun!
Fashionably yours,
Annette