Metallized surfaces
A fashion historian and stylist highlights metallized textures as one of 2024s boldest statements in apparel. The look travels from armor-inspired corsets paired with chainmail-like skirts to gowns glinting with the shine of ancient goddesses, drawing on the glamour seen at houses such as Alexander McQueen, Tom Ford, Alexander Vaulthier, and Diesel.
There are many expression options. Oversized sequins in vibrant palettes by 16Arlington and Proenza Schouler. Mesh-scale effects like those seen at Tory Burch. Glittery, party-ready finishes from Ganni. Fabrics that resemble crumpled foil as worn by LaPoint and Rabanne. Materials that evoke spacecraft textures from Coperni offer another futuristic avenue.
To deepen the trend, metallic denim, mirrored accessories, and pieces that channel a hint of an otherworldly or robotic vibe are all effective choices.
Tender girlcore
The 2024 fashion scene leans into a distinctly feminine aesthetic, often labeled girlcore. Delicate bows, soft ruffles, light taffeta, and airy shapes define the mood, with Simone Rocha and Cecilie Bahnsen setting the tone. Other designers like Caroline Hu, Bora Aksu, Sandy Liang, Molly Goddard and many more expand the movement.
The look steers away from tightness or overt sexuality, preserving a playful, youthful energy. Cute dresses with large bows and fabric roses are commonly paired with Mary Janes or loafers, accompanied by whimsical accessories to keep the mood light and fun.
Preppy style
Interest in preppy aesthetics carried over from 2023 into 2024. Elite school-inspired visuals appeared on runways from Miu Miu to Loewe, Dries Van Noten and beyond, signaling that gingham jackets, pinstripe shirts, suit shorts, and smart dress shoes with socks remain useful staples.
Polo neck tops and dresses secured a strong presence in shows by Gucci, Givenchy, Vivienne Westwood, MSGM, Carolina Herrera, and others, making them essential in wardrobes for the season.
Carved silhouettes
Designers seem to prefer bold, sculptural shapes over tight fits, embracing volume, coverage, and fabrics that hold form with supportive padding. The approach in 2024 draws inspiration from houses and designers known for exploring form, including JW Anderson, Maison Margiela, Rick Owens, Comme des Garçons, Marni and Y/Project.
For those seeking more restrained options, concise pieces with an unusual cut or detail—like a deformed waist or a rounded hem—provide a balance between artistry and wearability. The waistline is revisiting its prominence in both skirts and trousers, inviting looks from Schiaparelli, Prada, Saint Laurent, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Louis Vuitton and Hermès. The result is a silhouette that complements many figures with a striking, modern edge.
Unusual cuts and interruptions
The fashion revival of the early 2000s continues to echo on runways in 2024, emphasizing deliberate cutaways and openings that reveal unexpected areas of the body. Elegant voids and strategic dissection appear not only on evening gowns but on casual tops, shirts, and even jeans.
Pieces that seem sliced in key places, reminiscent of Lucio Fontana, draw attention. Conceptual approaches from The Attico, Del Core, Peter Do, Courrèges, and even the classic lines of Yohji Yamamoto and Ann Demeulemeester offer bold, inventive alternatives for those seeking a statement look, while others favor more concise, geometrically altered cuts with a touch of the avant-garde.
Note: these explorations in silhouette are meant to be flattering and wearable, with inspiration drawn from the way certain houses approach balance between volume and line. Some ensembles emphasize a higher waist and distinctive hem shapes, offering versatile options for different body types and occasions. This season favors expressive design choices that still translate well to everyday styling, as reflected in the broader fashion conversations and runway examples cited by industry observers. (citation attribution provided by fashion reporting sources)