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One of the key trends for spring/summer 2023 is texture. From feathers and tassels to intricate ruching techniques and croc-effect, we’ve seen an amalgam of ornate textures giving more depth and dimension to the masterful outfits at fashion shows.

We’ve highlighted the key texture trends for the season and how to style them.

Adding movement: fringes and tassels

Once a party staple, tassels and fringes are back in fashion in both everyday and occasion wear. From groovy ‘70s fringe in bold colours and lively prints to sparkling tassels, the trend is all on.

Tassels and fringes can serve as a playful hemline favourite or in all-over styles that add movement and dimension to the piece. Designers like Chloé, Proenza Schouler and Jonathan Simkhai have included bold and colourful tendrils into their collections that are sure to make a statement.

Celebrities have also embraced the dramatic detail at the 2023 Grammys, including Harry Styles wearing a onesie by Gucci in metallic silver cascading tassels as he performed “As It Was” and Jennifer Lopez fashioning a Gucci gown covered in long bedazzled strands and a sheer ruffled train. Actress Viola Davis stunned with a colourful sequins gown by Naeem Khan featuring fringes that created a red and black checkered pattern and completed with crystal-embellishedwomen’s sandals.

How to wear it?

One of the most exciting ways to wear the 2023 trend is fringe dresses, and you just have to know how to accessorise it the right way. If you’re going for a statement dress, balance it out with a black handbag in an unpretentious design, such as a micro or a handle handbag and wear it with strappy sandals to accentuate the elegance of the movement.

Luckily, the fringe and tassel trend is versatile, so you can opt for a more subtle reiteration of the dynamic detail. Dresses, skirts, and co-ords in nude or a classic black with a hemline fringe can be worn as a more modest style to this trend paired with flat sandals and a leather handbag. You can also opt for a statement fringe piece, such as a black blazer, that can be a part of your office wear and cocktail night outfit.

If you’re looking forward to a hot summer day or night, a tassel dress that is sheer enough can be worn over your bikini for an elevated beach outfit, and paired with strappy heeled sandals, making for a perfect nighttime look.

There are also many fringe accessories you can be playful with, from tote bags to ankle boots. Incorporate them into your everyday outfits for a stylish touch, or complement a fancy dress for a statement look.

Croc-effect texture

Texture in our outfits can come in much simpler yet chic ways. While animal prints have been having a blast over the past few decades, a new trend is emerging on the fashion horizon – croc-effect textures.

Think handbags, boots, jackets, skirts, and even tops incorporating the intricate leather detailing that gives off the luxe aesthetic. The embossed nature of the material is what elevates its look and feel, making it look thick and heavy, which is usually associated with designer brands.

How to wear it?

Start with a pair of croc-effect Chelsea boots, and when you’re feeling daring enough, match them with a bag with the same pattern for an effortlessly chic look. You can wear them with jeans and a blazer for a more casual reiteration of the trend or dress them up with a classic little black dress for a pleasant evening out.

Once you’ve got the hang of the reptile trend, you can commit to wearing a full-on croc-inspired outfit featuring a red croc-effect skirt and a white blouse paired with mid-heel sandals or a croc leather dress in black matched with a leather handbag of the same texture and knee-high boots.

Luxury velvet

“Plush, lustrous, and opulent—these are words that come to mind when we think of velvet,” says Jacqueline Rabôt, founder of fashion brand Rabot in an interview with Marie Claire.

Velvet has been a long-time favourite, but after the comfort and leisure styles of the pandemic, we’re now experiencing an even bigger need to incorporate velvet into our expansive, maximalist outfits.

Velvet symbolises luxury and opulence, and the labour-intensive weave made from silk has the power to give colours high saturation with its three-dimensional structure. This perfectly fits with the colour extravaganza we’re seeing in 2023, with bright and bold colours, such as exotic green and tangerine orange, at the forefront.

How to wear it?

While velvet is a definite holiday bonanza fabric, it can also be styled incredibly chic in the hot weather . Plus, there are many velvets made from lightweight fabrics such as silk and rayon, which look effortlessly and are breathable for the summer.

A touch of velvet paired with another lightweight fabric, such as linen or jersey, can create an elevated outfit perfect for a chic summer look.

Maxi velvet dresses look incredibly stylish and effortless in the summer. The dress length paired with the fabric produces a flowing and appealing aesthetic. Wear it in jewel colours for extra contrast, and pair it with flat sandals to bring the look down to earth.

A crop top is also a great way to wear velvet in summer. Pastel colours can create a subtle and elegant look. Pair it with a flowing maxi skirt or a mini black skirt and strappy sandals for the ultimate fresh summer look.

Velvet accessories are also a go-to during the hot season. A small cross-body bag or velvet sandals can give your outfit a luxury touch, while velvet jewellery or a headband is a great way to add more texture to your summer look.

The SS23 fashion trends will be filled with joy, excitement, and vibrancy, so make sure you get your statement textured piece to elevate your outfit.