Fashion week/ month has come and gone. Paris dazzled, Milan turned heads, and New York proved that minimalism is here to stay.
Now, the real question is: how do we turn those runway looks into something wearable, whether you’re in Braam or Bantry Bay?
This summer, it’s all about confidence, colour, and clever styling. The key? Investing in timeless, high-quality pieces that elevate what you already own.
Whether you’re building your capsule wardrobe or remixing last season’s staples, a few intentional choices can take you from everyday chic to effortless icon.
To help decode the season’s defining looks, Michael Zahariev, co-founder of Luxity, South Africa’s leading pre-loved luxury retailer, breaks down the key trends that dominated the runways and shows how to make them work in real life.
“Summer style isn’t about a total overhaul,” says Zahariev. “It’s about the intelligence of investing in great items, a statement belt, a timeless leather bag, pieces that instantly elevate everything you already own.”
Utilitarian chic: Function meets fashion
Forget everything you know about workwear. Utilitarian chic is now all about luxury. Picture structured cargo pants with sharp tailoring or a crisp linen skirt in neutral tones.
The key is to balance practical pieces with polished ones.
Style tip: Pair a Lanvin linen skirt or high-waisted cargo pants with a fitted shirt or structured vest for an instantly refined look. Add delicate gold jewellery or chunky sandals for that “I woke up fabulous” finish.
Buckle up: The belt is back
If there’s one hero accessory this season, it’s the belt. From Prada’s top-handle bags to Loewe’s cinched jackets, everything on the runway was fastened, strapped, or belted.
To master the look, use a Louis Vuitton Tresor belt to define the waist over an oversized blazer, chunky cardigan, or shirt dress. It’s all about turning boxy silhouettes into flattering shapes.
“It’s the easiest way to fake tailoring without actually tailoring,” laughs Zahariev. “A good belt transforms everything.”
Luxe leather: Quiet luxury reimagined
Leather in summer? Absolutely. Done right, it’s the statement of quiet luxury. Choose one anchor piece that does all the heavy lifting: a buttery Saint Laurent tote, a structured Louis Vuitton Epi bag, or even a leather mini skirt.
Style it down with a cotton tee and slides for daytime or elevate it with a silk cami for night. Think of it as your wardrobe’s anchor: timeless, textural, and endlessly remixable.
Pile on the print
Print-on-print dressing is having a major moment, and it’s surprisingly easy to pull off when done with intention. Pair Casadei leopard pumps with Prada tortoiseshell sunglasses for an instant mood lift.
The secret? Let patterns talk to each other, not compete. Keep the colour families harmonious, and add one pop like a Louis Vuitton silk scarf to tie it all together.
Colour clash: Break the rules boldly
This season’s most stylish rule is to break all the colour rules. Pair earthy tones with unapologetic brights; it’s the new power move.
Think a brown Dolce & Gabbana bucket hat juxtaposed with bold pink Versace Medusa sunglasses.. It’s daring, but intentional. Keep the base outfit simple and let the accessories lead the conversation.
“Colour is confidence.”
Even one bold accessory can shift your whole mood and your outfit.
Go with the flow: Let movement lead
After years of fitted silhouettes, fashion is finally breathing again. Flowing fabrics, airy cuts, and soft drapes are redefining femininity.
A Valentino silk dress or a Balenciaga sleeveless shirt can do all the talking, just add minimal jewellery and a great pair of slides. If there’s one word to describe the vibe? Ease.
How to make it yours
This summer, skip the pressure to overhaul your closet. The smartest style move is strategic dressing, investing in timeless, pre-loved luxury pieces that play well with what’s already hanging in your wardrobe.
Fashion, after all, isn’t about chasing every trend. It’s about owning your version of them.
