Last October, in the waning days of fashion month Spring 2023, Thom Browne took fashionistas back to the gilded days of 19th century France at the Opéra Garnier Napoleon III. There, his troupe of models walked the runway theatrically in opera capes, crinoline silhouettes, and tons and tons of wide-brimmed hats. This very moment perhaps best describes the spring fashion trends of 2023: glamor and many others.
The spring trends created since last fall point to a mutual desire to be big and bold – or at least to feel that way to some degree. They ask a person to, as they say on Tik Tok, “romanticize” their life in all aspects. In addition to a few nods to the crinoline skirt silhouette, houses like Alexander McQueen sent out ensembles equipped with strong shoulders for those moments when one yearns to feel empowered. Valentino and Fendi imitated the draping technique synonymous with the dresses often depicted on the pious women of Greek mythology. Some designers, such as Ralph Lauren, pointed to the American Wild West and all the escapism that comes with the region’s rolling landscape.
However, some designers have also made it clear that this desire for glamor doesn’t always have to be a spectacular display. Many people still think about luxury, which is more of a whisper than a shout. Glamor for them is not covered in gold, but found in the smaller details. And according to some houses like Miu Miu, magic can be found in practicality. What’s not luxurious about having multiple pockets to stash your treasures?
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Below are some of the Spring 2023 trends that will make this season visually stunning.
Revival of the crinoline silhouette
In the 19th century, crinoline, a structured petticoat, was used to widen women’s skirts and reduce waists. Could it be back? Along with Thom Browne, Loewe, Gypsy Sport and Jacquemus sent several versions of their own. How to incorporate this dramatic silhouette into your own wardrobe? Easy. Are you getting ready for a wedding? How about an elegant cocktail party downtown? The crinoline silhouette is sure to dazzle today as it did more than 200 years ago.
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Shoulder strength
Nothing evokes more empowerment than a strong and bold shoulder. Brits love it (which is why Alexander McQueen is leading the trend) and like the trend mentioned above, it accentuates the waist. However, the British were not the only ones participating in this trend. Gucci showed a plethora of heavy shoulder jackets (a departure from the usual Italian silhouette) and also Schiaparelli. If you need to feel glamorous and powerful at the same time, find a jacket with a shoulder as such.
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The Goddess Effect
Glamor is found in lightness, and fashion houses have understood this for 2023. Where else to look for inspiration than the Greek goddesses who donned a draped garment. At Valentino, Ferragamo and Fendi, silk chiffon dresses floated effortlessly down the runway, all the while conjuring up fantasies: spring trips to Italy or perhaps a run through the French countryside. Whatever and wherever it is, it’s time to invest in a garment that channels the romantic powers of Aphrodite herself.
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Low key luxury
Mocking logos? Do you think the peacock is something for the nouveau? Or maybe you’re just someone who’s a little quiet to begin with. Well, for those who may be turning their backs on loud fashion trends, don’t despair: the designers have something for you too. Mary Kate and Ashley Olson are the American symbol of quiet luxury and this spring season 2023. And next to them, Matthieu Blazey of Bottega Veneta asks why glamor has to be such a big deal? Can even doing everyday things like going to the grocery store or running errands be luxurious? This spring season, consider luxury in every day.
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Wild West
There aren’t many places that offer an escape like the American Wild West does. While it’s certainly not as wild or desolate as it’s portrayed in movies in the last century, the terrain still evokes a sense of fantasy—especially for Ralph Lauren. But it’s not just the American designer who’s attracting attention in the West. In a seemingly novel move, Burberry sent full denim looks down the runway with some cowboy-esque pants. For the spring 2023 season, don’t be afraid to incorporate a suede jacket or even a pair of cowboy boots into your wardrobe.
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Lots of pockets
While several designers are eschewing the frills of the aforementioned trends this season, they’re keeping their eyes on the cargo because, haven’t you heard? Practicality is always luxurious. Pockets have been a massive hit with designer houses this season as many trousers have not just one set of pockets, but two, sometimes even three! Givenchy stocked up on pockets and so did Miu Miu and Isabel Marant. The load is obviously here to stay. At least for the spring 2023 season.
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