Monday, April 3, 2023

2023’s Biggest Spring Trends Include Maxi Skirts & Ballet Flats

Spring is here — and that means the spring/summer 2023 fashion trends we saw on the runways six months ago are about to be in full bloom. After the dark days of winter, ’tis the season for revival and reinvigoration, so we’re expecting our outfits to follow suit. If you can’t quite remember what was happening on the catwalks late last year, we don’t blame you. We’re also here to help by refreshing both your memory and your warm-weather wardrobe.

Ahead is our list of the biggest fashion trends that spanned the shows from New York to London to Milan to Paris, all of which can finally be integrated into your wardrobe. While not every one of them is big with a capital B, (spoiler alert) the blazers and the handbags actually are. And whether it’s embracing your inner Lara Croft in this season’s amped-up utilitarian attire or transforming yourself into a human disco ball courtesy of party-ready metallics, fashion is giving us plenty of opportunity to have fun. But where to begin?

We’ve assembled the key pieces, colors, accessories, and aesthetics to kick things off this spring with your most stylish foot forward. By that we mean in a pair of dazzling ballet flats, but more on that below.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Spring Trend 2023: Statement Maxi Skirts

According to Brandon Maxwell, Valentino, Jil Sander, and Ulla Johnson, the maxi skirt has arrived to rival last spring’s ubiquitous micro mini. Featuring floor-grazing hems, ruffles, sparkles, prints, and even pockets, there’s an extra-long skirt style for everyone (though denim takes on this trend are stealing the spotlight).

Spring Trend 2023: Fancy Flats

LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 18: Paloma Elsesser walks the runway during the Nensi Dojaka Ready to Wear Spring/Summer 2023 fashion show as part of the London Fashion Week on September 18, 2022 in London United Kingdom. (Photo by Victor VIRGILE/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images)

Step up your 2023 shoe game by slipping on your favorite flats from the early aughts with a high-fashion edge. Be it pointy-toes or classic ballet flats, these nostalgic styles are back and better than ever with rhinestone embellishments (Nensi Dojaka), daring mesh detailing (Emporio Armani), and sharp silhouettes.

Spring Trend 2023: Drop Waists

Not ready to give up last summer’s corset styles just yet? Then the curve-hugging, drop-waist dress trend — à la Gabriela Hearst, Carolina Herrera, and Sandy Liang — is for you. With waistbands falling just above the top of your hips, this torso-lengthening look comes with the sculptural appeal of a corset and the added bonus of a bottom half that’s loose and flowing.

Spring Trend 2023: Shades Of Purple

A recent trend report from Worth Global Style Network found that the color purple is an increasingly popular choice among young shoppers who appreciate its gender-inclusive allure. We spotted the trending hue in a variety of ways at the SS23 shows, with Adam Lippes opting for a very light lilac, Prabal Gurung going for lavender, and Tibi trying out plum and orchid shades. For bold dressers interested in the sheer styles that also dominated the SS23 runways, choosing a dark purple see-through piece is a great way to adopt this daring look without feeling totally exposed.

Spring Trend 2023: So Much Silver

There is no shortage of designer inspo (Sacai, Gucci, Valentino, Paco Rabanne, Chloé, Simone Rocha) and styles (mesh materials, metallic accents, sleek and shiny fabrics) for those who wish to shine bright in this standout trend. Celebrities already got a head start at this year’s Grammy Awards with Harry Styles in a silver fringed jumpsuit, Mary J. Blige in a cut-out silver dress, and Alex Scott in a silver halter-top ensemble.

Spring Trend 2023: All Things Utilitarian

The wild rise of the cargo pant has ushered in an era of utilitarian style more generally. This includes all kinds of baggy pants, durable fabrics, boiler suits, and pretty much anything with pockets. Designers like Marc Jacobs, Givenchy, Sacai, Burberry, Koché, Isabel Marant, and LaQuan Smith have given this trend their stamp of approval, sometimes with a colorful or silky twist.

Spring Trend 2023: Very Big Blazers

220918 Rejina Pyo SS23 Catwalk show London Fashion Week Credit: Ben Broomfield Credit Social: @photobenphoto Copyright: Ben Broomfield Photography 07734 852620 photo@benbroomfield.com www.benbroomfield.com

This spring, big blazers mean big business. The oversized take on the closet staple is reflective of an industry whose rules have become more flexible and easy-going in recent years. Breezy styles from of-the-minute brands like Khaite and Rejina Pyo prove that the boxier, the better.

Spring Trend 2023: Leather On Leather

Two-piece sets in leather, or vegan alternatives of the fabric, are proving to be fashion’s glossiest outfit formula for the season ahead. Sleek shorts, pants, and skirts in leather or leather-like materials are being paired with matching blazers, bombers, and bustiers inspired by the likes of Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Coach, Max Mara, and Chloé.

Spring Trend 2023: XL Totes

If you like big blazers, might we suggest the trend’s equally large cousin: the supersized tote. Industry heavy hitters like Louis Vuitton, Givenchy, and Bottega Veneta are making the case for extra-large bags that are big enough to eclipse your torso, making this accessory the center of attention that just so happens to fit everything you need to get through the day… and then some.

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All The Spring Fashion Items Our Team Tried & Loved In March

March is always a weird month. Sure, we’re excited for the arrival of warmer temperatures and sunnier days, but shedding the hibernation vibes we’ve held onto for the past few months is a challenge. Thankfully, spring fashion helps to ease the transition with its bright optimism, shorter hemlines, and varied layering options. 

Ahead of the spring season, our editors were hard at work trying out the best fashion items out there, from metallic cowboy boots to wedding-appropriate dresses and higher-than-usual platform heels. A common theme ran among our findings during March: we’ve all explored new sartorial territory. And after months of being cooped up and buried under layers, we're looking forward to exploring the fashion resolutions we've made as the flowers bloom. 

Take a look at some of the best fashion items our team loved in March, including cargo pants we can’t stop wearing, fashion-forward tank tops, and more. 

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Boot Barn Encore Boots

“Being an East Coast baby, never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d own a pair of cowboy boots, but here we are. Boot Barn has so many different styles that it made it easy to choose something that was out of my comfort zone but still functional to compliment my spring pieces.” — Breanna Davis, associate social editor

Boot Barn Shyanne Women's Encore Western Boots - Snip Toe, $, available at Boot Barn

Banana Republic Lido Cargo Pant

“I wasn't into cargo pants when they were popular in the '00s, and that's too bad. This pair, which I have been wearing nonstop, has just the perfect amount of bagginess while still remaining polished and work-appropriate, going just as well with a casual tee and sneakers as it does with a blazer and heels.” — Irina Grechko, fashion director

Banana Republic Lido Wool Cargo Pant, $, available at Banana Republic
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Levi's 501® Spliced Jean

The arrival of sunnier days and warmer weather calls for swapping darker denim washes for medium and light, and this pair boasts the best of both worlds. A statement take on the classic Levi’s 501 jean, the spliced, two-tone detail gives the straight-leg, high-rise style a fresh upgrade for spring. 

Levi's 501® Spliced Jeans, $, available at Levi's

Anine Bing Melanie Dress

"I have a few weddings this spring and realized I had literally zero evening-appropriate dresses in my wardrobe. I was walking past the Anine Bing store and this dress caught my eye through the window. Although I may need to hem it a little, it doesn’t need any major tailoring, which is rare for my 5’1” frame, and isn’t sheer at all. I anticipate that I won’t be tugging or pulling at it all evening. I’m also looking forward to dressing this down with sandals or clogs (shown here) for daytime.” — Kate Spencer, senior affiliate strategist 

Anine Bing Melanie Dress, $, available at Anine Bing

Larroudé Carmen Platform Sandals

“One of my secret dreams in life is to be tall enough to not have to look up when I talk to my boyfriend, and thanks to these Larroudé platforms, my wish came true. In all seriousness, these platforms are one of the tallest and comfiest shoes I’ve ever worn. Although they may look like your ankles will break at the thought of wearing them, they are sturdy enough to let your feet just be, even with nearly six inches added. So far, I’ve worn them with a maxi skirt for date night and cargo pants for dinner with the family. The raffia texture is too good to pass for the spring and summer months.” — Frances Solá-Santiago, fashion writer

Larroudé Women's Carmen Raffia Ankle Strap Platform High Heel Sa, $, available at Bloomingdale's

Free People Callie Sheer Tunic

"All I want to do is be Daisy Jones, twirling around the stage in a flowy, witch-like tunic dress, okay? And this piece does exactly that." — Esther Newmann, UK affiliate writer


Free People Callie Sheer Tunic, $, available at Free People

Smash + Tess Lilli Cardigan

“I desperately needed a pop of color in my wardrobe, and since I love anything that’s oversized, this was perfect. It’s a great transitional piece from fall to spring and goes either dressed up with high heels or down with a pair of Nikes.” — Breanna Davis, associate social editor


Smash + Tess Lilli Cardigan, $, available at Smash + Tess

Sandro tweed and denim dress

“A tweed-and-denim dress with a short collar makes me feel equal parts grown up and chill. The front zipper goes the entire length of the dress, which I think is chic and practical. The multi-material combo gives this form-fitting mini some playful edge, but I toughened it up a bit more with black tights and my combat boots. I wore it to my birthday dinner with my family, and even my six-year-old nephew, who usually only comments on my inability to beat him at Mario Kart, nodded his head in approval. That's a win for me!” — Carli Whitwell, editorial director

Sandro Short tweed and denim dress, $, available at Sandro Paris

Marine Serre Logo Tank Top

Ever since I saw the Loewe tank top walk the runway, I have been into the Tank Top Era. Catch me in this perfect style from Marine Serre that has just the right amount of interest (see: the brand's signature crescent logo) all spring and summer.” — Irina Grechko, fashion director

Marine Serre Marine Serre Logo Tank, $, available at Nordstrom

Salt Water Luxe Britton Midi Dress

“As simple as this dress is, I never had anything like it in my closet. It really helps me tap into my dainty side. Plus, the shoulder string is adjustable, so it doesn’t fall over my shoulder, which is always a challenge for my petite frame.” — Breanna Davis, associate social editor

Salt Water Britton Midi Dress, $, available at Salt Water Luxe

Dora Larsen Beth Embroidery Bralette & High Waist Knicker


"Thanks to the pandemic, I swore off underwired bras a long time ago, instead opting for soft, comfy bralettes. Dora Larsen creates some of the most beautiful lingerie on the market, with delicate embroidery and soft lace edging in a sweet shop kind of color palette." — Esther Newmann, UK affiliate writer

Dora Larsen Beth High Waist, $, available at Dora Larsen

Dora Larsen Beth Bralette, $, available at Dora Larsen

Kika Vargas Floral Print Dress

“I don't wear colors or florals, but as soon as I saw this dress on the 75% off rack at my favorite department store, I made a beeline for the fitting room as it felt like such an occasion. The ruffled hem is the standout of this made-for-spring look, but I'd have to say the roomy fit and pockets are a strong second and third place. Because this dress is loose and longish, I'm going to show off my ankles with aplomb! I plan on wearing it to my dear friends' wedding in May. And maybe, a family barbecue? To the office? To the grocery store? It's definitely going to be on repeat this summer — it's too pretty not to be!” — Carli Whitwell, editorial director 


Kika Vargas Kika Vargas all-over floral-print dress, $, available at Farfetch

Akris Skirt

“Ever since I saw the Prada fall 2023 show, I’ve been obsessed with A-line flowy skirts. So much so that I bought this Akris skirt on The RealReal days after the show. What first attracted me was its volume, which can be attributed to the pleated detail, as well as the wool knit fabric. So far, I’ve worn it with everything from a brown vest (pictured here) to a white button down and black oxfords. While it’s a spring-ready skirt, I think it’ll stay in my closet even as temperatures cool in the fall months.” — Frances Solá-Santiago, fashion writer


Akris Punto Wool Stretch Knit Skirt, $, available at Akris

Nanushka Regenerated Leather Jacket

“The last time I bought a leather jacket was 10 years ago. With it now on its last seams, I've been on a hunt for a new investment piece to last me another decade. While I did not expect to go for one in a bright color like this baby blue, I find that this Nanushka number — crafted from buttery regenerated leather — goes with everything in my closet and makes for an instant statement piece when I am running late and need to get out the door.” — Irina Grechko, fashion director

Nanushka Regenerated leather jacket Azure, $, available at Nanushka

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Friday, March 31, 2023

25 Chic & Versatile Black Bikinis For Your Next Swim

Like a T-shirt, sweater, or pair of jeans, a black bikini is essential to any well-curated capsule wardrobe. And, although we love a good one-piece swimsuit as much as the next bathing beauty, it's the black bikini that proves most versatile during the sunshine season — seeing as you can mix and match it with just about any other color under the sun.

Of course, selecting the perfect go-to style isn’t always so black and white — so, to help get you swimming, we rounded up a bunch of noir-hued bikini sets that were made to be your bathing-suit cornerstone. Whether you’re a West Coaster who spends hours on the beach or just someone with impromptu vacation plans for a warm-weather weekend, the classic black bikini tops and black bikini bottoms ahead range from plus-size to straight-size and high-waisted to barely there, to ensure that you and your body are covered and stylish.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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Seea Georgina Bikini Top & High Waist Bikini Bottoms


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Seea Georgia Bikini Top, $, available at Free People

Seea Georgia High Waist Bikini Bottoms, $, available at Free People

Shade & Shore Mesh Triangle Bikini Top & High Waist Bikini Bottom


Shop Target

Shade & Shore Mesh Triangle Bikini Top, $, available at Target

Shade & Shore Mesh Insert High Waist Bikini Bottom, $, available at Target

Cupshe Braelynn Black Wrap Bralette & Shirred High Waist Bikini Set


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Cupshe Braelynn Black Wrap Bralette & Shirred High Waist Bikin, $, available at cupshe

Adidas Sportswear Bikini


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Adidas Sportswear Bikini, $, available at Adidas

J.Crew Cross-Back Underwire Top & Tie High-Rise Bottom


Shop J.Crew

J.Crew Cross-Back Underwire Bikini Top, $, available at J.Crew

J.Crew Tie High-Rise Bikini Bottom, $, available at J.Crew

Miss Selfridge Ruched Detail Cup Bikini Top & High Leg Bikini Bottoms


Shop Asos

Miss Selfridge Ruched Detail Cup Bikini, $, available at ASOS

Miss Selfridge High Leg Bikini Bottom, $, available at ASOS

Sanctuary Ribbed Bandeau Bikini Top & High-Waisted Bikini Bottoms


Shop Anthropologie

Sanctuary Ribbed Bandeau Bikini Top, $, available at Anthropologie

Sanctuary Ribbed High-Waisted Bikini Bottoms, $, available at Anthropologie

Andie Crete Top & High Waisted Bottom


Shop Andie

Andie Swim The Crete Top—Eco Nylon, $, available at Andie Swim

Andie Swim The High Waisted Bottom—Flat, $, available at Andie Swim

Aerie Wide Strap Unlined Underwire Bikini Top & High Waisted Seamless Bikini Bottom


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Aerie Wide Strap Unlined Underwire Bikini Top, $, available at Aerie

Aerie High Waisted Seamless Bikini Bottom, $, available at Aerie

Torrid Wireless Triangle Bikini Top & Lattice Side Bottom


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Torrid Wireless Triangle Bikini Top, $, available at Torrid

Torrid High-Rise Lattice Side Swim Bottom, $, available at Torrid

H&M Padded Triangle Bikini Top & Bikini Bottoms


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H&M Padded Triangle Bikini Top, $, available at H&M

H&M Bikini Bottoms, $, available at H&M

Skims Shaping Ruched Underwire Bikini Top & Fold Over Bikini Bottom


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Skims Shaping Swim Ruched Underwire Bikini Top, $, available at Skims

Skims Shaping Swim Fold Over Bikini Bottom, $, available at Skims

Madewell Double-Strap One-Shoulder Bikini Top & Crossover Bikini Bottom


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Madewell Double-Strap One-Shoulder Bikini Top, $, available at Madewell

Madewell High-Rise Crossover Bikini Bottom, $, available at Madewell

Lululemon Waterside Pull-On Swim Top & Mid-Rise Swim Bottom


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Lululemon Waterside Pull-On Swim Top B/C Cup, $, available at Lululemon

Lululemon Waterside Mid-Rise Swim Bottom Medium Bum Coverage, $, available at Lululemon

Sea Level U-Bar Bandeau & Retro High Waist Bikini Bottoms


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Sea Level U-Bar Bandeau Bikini Top, $, available at Nordstrom

Sea Level Retro High Waist Bikini Bottoms, $, available at Nordstrom

SummerSalt Ruched Sidestroke Bikini Top & High Leg High Rise Bottom


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Summersalt The Ruched Sidestroke Bikini Top, $, available at Summersalt

Summersalt The Ruched High Leg High Rise Bottom, $, available at Summersalt

Asos Design Curve Ruched Crop Frill Bikini Top & Frill High Waist Bottom


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ASOS DESIGN Curve Ruched Crop Frill Bikini Top, $, available at ASOS

ASOS DESIGN Curve Frill High Waist Bikini Bottom, $, available at ASOS

Frankies Bikinis Eyelet Ruffle Bikini Top & Bikini Bottom


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Frankies Bikinis Colby Eyelet Ruffle Bikini Top, $, available at Frankies Bikinis

Frankies Bikinis Pippa Eyelet Ruffle Bikini Bottom, $, available at Frankies Bikinis

Swimsuits For All Valentine Ruched Bandeau & High Waist Brief


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Swimsuits For All Valentine Ruched Bandeau Bikini Top, $, available at Swimsuits For All

Swimsuits For All High Waist Swim Brief, $, available at Swimsuits For All

PacSun Eco Scrunch V Tank Top & Ribbed High Waisted Band Bottom


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PacSun Eco Black Riviera Scrunch V Tank Bikini Top, $, available at PacSun

PacSun Eco Black Jordan Ribbed High Waisted Band Bikini Bottom, $, available at PacSun

Daci Plus Size Bikini Set with Tummy Control Bottoms


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Daci Plus Size Bikini Set with Tummy Control Bottoms, $, available at Amazon

Elomi Magnetic Wrap Underwire Bikini Top & Adjustable Bikini Bottom


Shop Bare Necessities

Elomi Plus Size Magnetic Wrap Underwire Bikini Top, $, available at Bare Necessities

Elomi Plus Size Plain Sailing Adjustable Bikini Bottom, $, available at Bare Necessities

Hunza G Coco Seersucker Triangle Halterneck Bikini


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Hunza G Coco Seersucker Triangle Halterneck Bikini, $, available at Net-A-Porter

Athleta Crossed Bikini Top & Clean Medium Rise Swim Bottom


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Athleta Crossed Bikini Top (A-C), $, available at Athleta

Athleta Clean Medium Swim Bottom, $, available at Athleta

ViX Swimwear Solid Leeza Bandeau & Hot Pants


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VIX SWIMWEAR Solid Leeza Bandeau Top, $, available at Shopbop

VIX SWIMWEAR Solid Leeza Hot Pants, $, available at Shopbop

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