Street style snaps are one of the most honest mirrors of the new season, showing it before the runway does. In this round-up, we look at the colourful pieces of spring and summer through real street outfits.
As the weather warms up, bright colours take over our wardrobes and, with them, the streets. So we have searched out inspiring styles from the streets just for you. There are lemon yellows, whites, designs that combine every colour of the rainbow in a single piece, strapless styles and off-the-shoulder co-ords. They’re all in our gallery!
If we listen to the voice of the streets, here is what we’d suggest adding to your summer ‘to wear’ list:
– Make sure you have at least one gingham piece. The example here is a 60s-inspired dress, while our recommendation is cotton shirts.
– This season, we also welcome wide-leg trousers in every colour. Wear them with heels so they don’t make your legs look shorter.
– And once again we’re borrowing a piece from the men’s wardrobe, because waistcoats are one of this season’s must-haves. Long or short, be sure to get one. And don’t forget: long ones are also the trendiest solution for hiding those pounds you still haven’t managed to lose.
More in our gallery!
Why are street style snaps so inspiring?
On the runway, a look is perfected by stylists and the lighting team. On the street, the same piece is put to the test by walking, the weather and the bustle of everyday life. That is why street style snaps are a good guide for anyone who wants to see how a trend is worn in real life. When you look at a snap, pay attention not only to the clothes but also to the proportions, the choice of shoes and the amount of accessories. That makes it easier to understand why an outfit works.
Standout pieces for summer
- Gingham: A cotton shirt in particular is the easiest way to bring this print into everyday wear.
- Wide-leg trousers: Worn with heels, they make your legs look longer.
- Waistcoat: Borrowed from the men’s wardrobe, this piece adds structure to an outfit, whether long or short.
- Bright colours: Lemon yellow and white, for example, carry the energy of summer even in a simple outfit.
- Off-the-shoulder cuts: Strapless and off-the-shoulder tops give a light, feminine look on hot days.
When building your own style, don’t copy a snap exactly. Instead, take the single idea that strikes you most: a colour pairing, a cut or a choice of shoe. If you’re curious about the basic steps of putting an outfit together, you can take a look at our guide to street style in five steps. And for the history of street style and its relationship with photography, the street fashion entry on Wikipedia is a good starting point.
Image: A young woman posing on a Tokyo street at night in a rainbow-striped jumper and red beret; colourful street fashion (representative image) — Dick Thomas Johnson from Tokyo, Japan, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0
