THE SPRING FORECAST
By Ava Warren of That's Haute Blog
FLIP FLOPS: IN
Flip-flops are experiencing a notable resurgence in the fashion world, moving well beyond their quick-errand, beach-only reputation. On the runway many designers have embraced them along luxe materials and unexpected pairings, signaling their elevated status in high fashion. The runways point to both minimalist ‘barely-there’ thongs and reinterpretations of the chunky shoe. It's safe to say that flip flops are versatile, on-trend staples for the upcoming season.
SEEN ON:
Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Balmain, Rabanne, Givenchy, Alaïa, Balenciaga, Chloé, Veronica Beard.
WHERE TO WEAR:
Beach, pool, barbecues, dinner, quick errands, pilates class. Everywhere and anywhere.
Bottega Veneta S/S 26
Balenciage S/S 26
Balmain S/S 26
SUNGLASSES: THE BIGGER THE BETTER
After a few years of teeny-tiny glasses, oversized glasses are back in the spotlight with bold frames and exaggerated shapes appearing on major runways. Designers have shown everything from retro-inspired, thick acetate shapes to geometric, statement-making opticals—signaling that eyewear is about more than functionality; it’s a central accessory for bold personal expression. People are embracing these larger-than-life frames, moving away from tiny lenses toward looks that cover most of the face.
SEEN ON:
Gucci, Burberry, Moschino, Dolce & Gabbana, Saint Laurent, Courrèges, Balmain, Balenciaga, Zimmermann
WHERE TO WEAR:
Long drives blasting music, tanning day at the pool, reading in the garden, driving around running errands.
STYLING TIPS:
Match color of sunglasses with another accessory for an intentional polished look, wear colored lenses to spice up a look
Saint Laurent S/S 26
Zimmermann S/S 2026
FEATHERS EVERYWHERE
Feathers were everywhere on the runways this season, showing up as both dramatic focal points and textured accents. During the fashion weeks, feathers were used in bold, sculptural ways—from skirts and gowns at Chanel and Balenciaga to feather-trimmed accents at Bottega Veneta—blending drama and texture. A notable evolution in sustainability was seen in feathers. Stella McCartney used ethical and innovative materials to create a plant-based feather alternative. Overall, feathers this season capture both classic glamour and modern reinvention.
SEEN ON:
Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Stella McCartney, Givenchy, Balenciaga, Valentino, Chanel
WHERE TO WEAR:
Weddings, formal events, cocktail parties, dinner, brunch, errands (because life is the occasion).
STYLING TIPS:
Accessorize; jewelry, hats, bags, shoes, etc. Full feather garments make a statement, match your feathers with silk or satin, or pair with jeans and a simple shirt for an elevated basic look with an over-the-top accessory.
Bottega Veneta S/S 26
Bottega Veneta S/S 26
Bottegs Veneta S/S 26
BOWS ARE BACK
Bows are continuing to have their major moment on and off the runways. Evolving from their traditionally dainty roleinto bold, expressive fashion statements. Designers are using oversized bow details as central motifs on dresses, blouses, and even accessories like bags and shoes. From
dramatic necklines at Saint Laurent to sculptural ribbon accents in Jonathan Anderson’s debut collection at Dior.
SEEN ON:
Richard Quinn, Saint Laurent, Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, Valentino
WHERE TO WEAR:
Formal events to everyday wear—bows are an accessory.
STYLING TIPS:
Don’t put bows in your hair, opt for a flat laid bow rather than a girlish bow, use satin, necktie bows give a vintage elegance to a look, the lesser the amount of bows the better; stick to one or two.
HELLO SILVER
Silver and metallics are big on runways and give modern fashion a futuristic, polished edge.Designers are implementing silver into everything from architectural skirts and dresses to accessories, making metallic shine feel purposeful rather than just party-wear. Silver is about more than just sparkle; it’s about texture and material innovation, with metallics serving as central fabrics in both night and day looks, often paired with minimal silhouettes or contrasting
neutrals. Silver is also appearing more and more in accessories and jewelry, from sculptural metal pieces to chrome-finished hardware, helping the trend flow from street style to high fashion and wardrobes alike.
SEEN ON:
Ralph Lauren, Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Courrèges, Rabanne, Chloé
WHERE TO WEAR:
Formal events, casually with denim, and virtually anywhere.
STYLING TIPS:
Layer and stack your silver accessories. For a contrasting look pair with warm tones; for a classic look, pair with cool tones.
Courrèges S/S 26
Ralph Lauren S/S 26
Paco Rabanne S/S 26
PRETTY IN RED
For SS26, red remains a powerful color on the runways, with designers like Carolina Herrera and Richard Quinn using it both as bold statement pieces and as striking accents throughout their collections. At major shows, like Chanel, pops of bright red and fire-engine hues. Also noted were burgundy and darker red tones in dresses, leather, and matching ensembles, offering an elevated contrast to the brighter shades. In beauty as well, red continues to reign, with classic red lips showcased on the catwalks as a key makeup moment that complements the fashion-forward, vibrant color.
SEEN ON:
Carolina Herrera, Richard Quinn, Stella McCartney, Givenchy, Chanel
WHERE TO WEAR:
Red is a versatile color and depending on how you use it, it is a color that can
be appropriate for weddings, workwear, casual hangouts, romantic dinners, celebrations
STYLING TIPS:
A long red coat with a simple outfit is always chic, pair with animal prints
Carolina Herrera S/S 26
Stella McCartney S/S 26
Caroline Herrera S/S26