And just like that, winter is over. Well, in a trendy sense anyway.
While we're still in a sea of cosy barn and bomber jackets, rich reds and chocolate browns, our go-to brands are finishing up their mid-year and end-of-season sales to make room for the new.
Watch: Comfortable Footwear Recommendations. Post continues after video.
Of course, trends are just that — an overarching direction in which things are heading. They're certainly not compulsory and, in fact, I know many people who purposely avoid fashion trends. This is more a PSA of what's to come AKA what you're about to see all over your feed, favourite shopping sites and in the shops.
Big Balloon Pants
How you feel about barrel jeans will likely influence your thoughts on spring's big pant style. And when I say big, I mean literally.
Exaggerated balloon trousers started at the top with luxury brands like Alaïa and Chloe sending billowy bottoms down their recent runways. The trend quickly trickled down to the high street in the Northern Hemisphere, and they're slowly starting to hit stores here.
While many of the options are in soft, sometimes semi-sheer fabrics, some styles are made from more structured materials like linen, cotton and even leather.
My verdict? I'm a fan of this style because it makes a visual impact while keeping me comfy. I'll be pairing them with a more fitted top half to even out the proportions and I love that you can wear them with flats, sandals or a kitten heel.
Not sure yet? Or maybe you have a pair of wide-leg pants in a soft fabric already? Go DIY by grabbing some sleeve garters. Pop them around your ankle on top of the fabric before puffing it over so they're visually concealed.
Try it:
Zara Satin Bomber-Style Trousers, $69.95.
Satin Bomber-Style Trousers in Sand. Image: Zara.
ASOS Design Soft Textured Oversized Billow Pants, $74.
Soft Textured Oversized Billow Pants in Black. Image: ASOS.
Bardot Lissett Soft Balloon Pant, $149.95.
Lisset soft balloon pant in ivory. Image: Bardot.
Bandana Belts
Bandana belt. Image: Pinterest
This trend does what it says on the box. Grab a silky or soft square scarf, tie it around your waist, and you're done.
My verdict? I think this look will be one of those fast-moving aesthetics, but I don't hate it.
Firstly, you can pick up a bandana for the price of a chai, so it's not a huge financial commitment. I already have a bunch because I use them to cover my face full of makeup when sliding on a white tee. Secondly, I often default to a 'classic' outfit (read: a bit boring) when I'm rushed - generally said white tee with jeans — so adding a silk scarf to the look creates easy interest. I can even grab it as a dash out the door and put it on later.
Instead of wearing them on your waist, we're also seeing them twisted and warped around bag handles or threaded through big-ish beads and worn as a bracelet.
Try it:
Rubi Knot Your Everyday Scarf, $19.99.
Rubi Knot Your Everyday Scarf in Sour Cherry Stripe. Image: The Iconic.
Big W Gold Toned Bandana, $4.20.
Big W Gold Toned Bandana. Image: Big W.
Lovisa Regal Print Fabric Scarf, $24.99.
Lovisa Regal Print Fabric Scarf in Red, White. Image: Lovisa.
Sport Shorts
Sport shorts. Image: Pinterest.
You know our elevated trackpants from winter? Welcome to summer's version.
The trend started with the OG of sports stripes, Adidas, and now you'll find athleisure-inspired shorts pretty much everywhere.
When you think of an athletic brand's clothing, you might only imagine wearing it to the gym or when being active (at least I do, anyway), but this season it's all about sports shorts with everyday wardrobe classics.
We're wearing them in exactly the same way, with a button-down shirt, a tee and a blazer, and with any footwear we fancy.
My verdict? I don't think this one is for me (though I should never say never). I do like the look of shorts with an oversized business shirt and a kitten heel or pump, so maybe I'll warm to the idea as the weather warms up, too.
Try it:
Adidas Originals Firebird Shorts, $60.
Adidas Originals Firebird Shorts in Red. Image: The Iconic.
Lily Loves Athleisure Shorts, $30.
Lily Loves Athleisure Shorts. Image: Target.
Lululemon Scuba Mid-Rise Oversized Short, $89.
Lululemon Scuba Mid-Rise Oversized Short in Ivory/Black. Image: Lululemon.
Listen to this week's episode of Nothing To Wear here.
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Feature image: Supplied/Pinterest.
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