As guests flocked to the world’s fashion capitals, the fashion industry had the opportunity to see what trendsetters saw as the epitome of style for the Spring/Summer 2024 season. One thing in particular stood out: denim, a material with which show visitors experimented extensively. FashionUnited has rounded up some of the key denim trends that have hit the streets.
‘Dirty’ denim
The ruffled look is regularly favored by fashionistas, but for SS24, this look seemed to be taken a step further. From baggy jeans to long maxi skirts, the distressed look was predominant, but with the added effect of a “dirty” effect through the use of a “dirty denim” wash – a technique also seen on Diesel’s runway in recent times was popular for years. Paired with rips and scuffs, the final look was an elevated take on hand-me-down clothing.
Skirt and pants combination
Double denim isn’t necessarily a new trend, but fashion week attendees were clearly keen to see the look evolve. A specific example of this was layering a denim skirt over pants, which added depth to the two common garments. Maxi skirts were particularly popular, often with high slits that revealed the wide-cut trousers underneath.
More than oversized
The palazzo jeans were no longer just wide-cut in SS24. Instead, they switched to more expansive shapes and opted for exceptionally wide silhouettes, which were shown either in a flared cut or on the body itself. Either way, you could see wide hemlines on sidewalks from New York to Milan, saved from the rigors of the street only by platform boots or kitten heels.
Denim boots are back
Seeing fashion week guests stumbling down the street in denim boots felt like a sudden flashback to the early 2000s. It was hard to remember that this is actually the present and that the current existence of such garments is simply proof that the Y2K trend is still prevalent in the fashion world. Another variation on this look was cut-off chaps; some were held up by belts that wrapped around the thighs, others simply served as leg warmers.
Skater jorts
Jorts, or jean shorts, took on a new form this season, this time with clear references to skateboarding culture. Oversized versions of the garment played on the androgynous take on the staple wardrobe, enhanced by oversized flannels and chunky boots. If there was a difference, it was the range of washes used, ranging from heavy bleaching to sandblasted denim.
Unconventional hems
One way to refresh classic denim pieces was by redesigning the hem. Participants did this by deconstructing various garments, forming unconventional shapes and silhouettes that gave each piece a whole new character. Denim dresses were combined with unusual skirts, jeans were parted through the inseam to create obscure shapes, and patchwork details resulted in deformed models.
Flowers for spring
While “Flowers for Spring” may not have been considered “groundbreaking,” fashion week guests made it clear why floral clothing is back in style next season. From intricate embroidery to nostalgic screen prints, blooming patterns were a standout on the streets, enthusiastically embraced by the fashion world, each exploring different interpretations that suited their own generation.
This translated post previously appeared on FashionUnited.uk