Welcome to the Spring & Summer edition of the Dream Views blog. Here I hope to inspire you with some of the info I have gleaned from studying some of my favourite art, designers, influencers, magazines, books, and life lessons. Let's enjoy this journey together.
This Year's Trends
As the fashion world gears up for a new season, New York and London Fashion Weeks have given us another glimpse into what we can expect to see. Big surprise, florals and bold colours are all the rage again this year! All the colours above are from the Spring & Summer runways. The biggest trend is "Dopamine Dressing". As Shaikila Forbes-Bell, fashion psychologist explains, "Essentially, dopamine dressing is psychological grounding to the ‘look good, feel-good’ concept. When you wear something you associate with happiness, you embody that emotion and feel happy.” You can get that positive dopamine hit by wearing bold colours and items that remind you of a particularly happy time or place. A vibrant colour can also boost your skin's appearance and enhance your complexion. This is especially true when we age and may start to look a little washed out.
Billowy, layered, oversized silhouettes are in, with designers embracing a comfortable, casual aesthetic. Embrace that relaxed, effortless look. With the inclusion of sporty leggings and joggers, designers are embracing the comfortable, casual aesthetic that still feels stylish and modern. Whether you're looking to make a statement or simply want to feel comfortable but chic, there's something for everyone in the latest trends.
The most vibrant pops of colour on the runways this year were the acid greens, bright yellows, sunset oranges, cobalt blues, hot magenta pinks, and reds. Purples like last years periwinkle, lavender, and violet are still popular this year as well. Start small with bold colours, like a tote bag, scarf, or headband. Kimonos and cardigans add an extra pop of colour to any outfit. Worn next to black or white, the colours add that extra wow! We usually think of kimonos for the beach, pool, or cruise. This season people are using these lightweight beauties to brighten any outfit. Then you might try a tee or tank top before working up to a dress or full pant suit. Not sure about which colours to start with? Try this “What Color Suits Me?” article by Charlie Bell of “Woman & Home” for some tips. The main thing is to wear outfits that help you feel confident and amazing!
1. Heavenly Hosta Chloe Jumpsuit 2. Warm Painted Roses K Smith Tee with Ripples Brooke Joggers 3. Blue and White Blooms Coco Tank with Ripples Sandrine Knit Pant 4. Spring Blooms Eden Tunic 5. Spring Pink Hydrangea Kaplan Tank, Carla Palazzo Pant, and Elani Kimono 6. Violet Phlox Amanda Dress 7. Velvet Rose in Red Plus Size Jamie Top with Midnight Plus Size Jackie Stretch Pant
These bold colours can definitely make a statement and illicit a joyful vibe. Florals are a safe investment, with this year's looks including vibrant florals, geometric shapes, stripes, and colourful Zebra prints. Zebra prints were big on the runways and added a touch of wildness and edge. For those of us vertically challenged, vertical striped trousers are an instant leg lengthener and look great with the popular, wider legged, pant. Kitsch makes a comeback. They are playful, whimsical designs, with quirky or mismatched prints and patterns. Some designers mixed up to 5 different patterns in one design! Kitsch is all about having fun with fashion and expressing your individuality. Wearable art is also making it to the runways with beautiful sunset art and resort photography. Not to be left behind is the trend of matching sets, with the same designs from top to bottom and now including matching over-pieces. There are plenty of opportunities to inject some personality and fun into your wardrobe.
1. Painted Pink Floral Abstract Chloe Jumpsuit with Calming Wine YK Kimono 2. Sunset Abstract Julie Drape Tee with YK Kimono and Midnight Sandrine Knit Pant 3. Retro Gold Stripe Sandrine Knit Pant with Scarf 4. Wild Golden Zebra Sandrine Knit Pant 5. Wild Golden Zebra Amanda Dress 6. Blue Eyed Twilly Coco Tank, Carla Palazzo Pant, and YK Kimono 7. Falling Hard Victoire Dress
Pastels and soft neutrals are always on trend for a more romantic, layered look. These are great choices for summer parties and wedding attire. Pastels work great with light, flowy, or sheer fabrics such as chiffon scarves or kimono over-pieces. Asymmetric hemlines are incredibly flattering, helping to lengthen the legs instead of cutting you off near the knees. Not into showing off the legs, Maxis are modest and increasingly gaining popularity. Whether you're a fan of bold colours or prefer soft pastels, there's something for everyone this season.
That is it for now. If you want to know more about what is going on at Dream Views, want coupon codes, or freebies, consider signing up for the Dream Views Newsletter. We promise not to fill your email with clutter. We currently publish quarterly, with a couple of special feature issues. If you are interested in seeing more of our styles, simply click on Dream Views Fashions to go to the store. We use water based inks with moisture wicking vegan fabrics. Best of all, our clothing is currently made in Montreal, Canada.
So go ahead and embrace the latest trends, express your individuality, and don't forget to have fun while doing it!