Australian Fashion Week has come to a close, and with it we have no doubt about what we'll be wearing this coming summer.
While Australian designers don't particularly set the trends on the international stage, instead taking inspiration from their European counterparts (from the bright colour-blocking of Jil Sander to the minimalism of Celine), they have undoubtedly cemented the trends we saw at the latest spring-summer collections in Paris, Milan and New York for use in our own backyard.
Though there were plenty of mini-trends scattered throughout the collections, like paper-bag waists, soft leather (in the form of skirts, shorts, dresses and tops), oriental inspired prints, wide pants, linen and the colour orange, there were five stand-out looks that were hard to ignore.
Mile-high club
While attention of the upper leg area is usually reserved for miniskirts, sky-high slits in ankle-length dresses, knee-length skirts and palazzo pants have ensured there is a new focus on our thighs this summer. This trend is great news for more mature women who want to show a bit of leg without bearing all.
Colouring in
Bright, block-colours were seen all over the catwalk this week, but they were also spotted on all the front-row fashion editors, proving that mixing bold, colourful separates is a trend not going anywhere fast. However, make sure you stick to one colour palette when combining your statement pieces — rust, burnt orange and mustard give a strong effect when worn together, as do jewelled hues of teal, gold, and chartreuse, or if you're felling really brave go for bright colours of aqua, watermelon pink and lime.
White wash
Most shows this week opened with beautifully crafted white, cream and ivory pieces that reflected the minimalism and simplicity of Paris' Celine and Chloe. Although extremely difficult to keep clean, these classic pieces are an easy way to perfect effortless chic in a country famous for its cut-off denim shorts during summer. If all white is too daunting, invest in a crisp white shirt or silk cream blouse to take you through summer.
Modern romance
Probably the least appealing trend to a fashion realist is romance. All the ruffles, floaty shapes and lace look gorgeous on the catwalk, but what about in real life? Our designers, however, seemed to seamlessly blend modernity and romance, making it a wearable style that I'm sure we'll all fall head over heels in love with. Think ethereal chiffon skirts, fluid silk pants and dreamy free-flowing dresses perfect for any number of summer soirees.
Jumpsuits
The jumpsuit will continue to reign as a summer staple, however this season designers left the boho behind and embraced simple, well cut all-in-ones for a sexier, grown-up feel that will make you want to put up with their only downside — the slow powder-room pit stops.
Your say: Can you see yourself embracing any of the trends from Australian Fashion Week?
Video: Top trends from Australian Fashion Week
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