Fashion, like technology, changes at a breakneck pace, which means every year, there are new trends to look forward to. Which can be fun, but also a bit overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start. So, if you need some style inspo, here are the biggest fashion trends for 2023 you need to know.
*to compile this list of fashion trends, I looked at trending styles on social media, expert predictions, and runway shows from spring/summer 2023 collections.
Core Fashion Trends
Fashion trends for 2023 will be a lot like the ones we saw in 2022 – defined with the word core. Which is just another way of saying chic or niche. But there’s an increasing need to label every aesthetic as something-core.
Ah, well. Here they are, the core fashion trends to look for in 2023.
Ballet-Core
As the name implies, this trend is all about looking like a ballet dancer. This super dainty and feminine style can be as over-the-top as a full on pink ballerina gown or as subtle as adding a pair of ballet flats to your everyday look.
Style Staples:
- Pale pink
- Tulle skirts
- Ballet flats
- Bodysuits
- Leg-warmers
Mermaid Core
Call it the Little Mermaid effect, but mermaidcore is only going to become more popular in 2023. The trend, which emerged in the summer of 2021, is on the opposite end of the spectrum as the coastal grandma trend. While both have a beachy, vacation style aesthetic, coastal grandma is laid-back and preppy whereas mermaidcore is a shimmery, siren-esque take.
To try the trend, look for aquatic colors—cerulean blue, sea foam green, turquoise, and cobalt—along with purple, pale pink, coral, and pearl hues.
Style Staples:
- Sequins
- Iridescent and metallic styles
- Fishnets and crochet
- Fish-tail silhouettes
Western-Core
Thanks to the rising obsession with Yellowstone, Westerncore has become increasingly popular. And not just in remote, mountainous areas, but bustling cities too. Dubbed the urban cowboy look, this style, like balletcore, can be full-on or subtle.
Just adding fringe to something can give you a bit of westerncore swagger.
Style Staples:
- Prairie dresses
- Shearling-trimmed coats
- Fringe and tassels
- Cowboy boots
RomCom Core
Take your favorite Romcom character and bring her to life with your wardrobe choices. This trend is all about unleashing your inner main character energy. Think fashion inspired by Mean Girls, Legally Blonde, When Harry Met Sally, and How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days.
Slinky silhouettes, floral, paisley, and plaid prints, and midriff barring styles are all in.
Style Staples:
- Slip dresses
- Cropped sweaters and baby tees
- A-line mini skirts
- Oversized blazers
- Corset tops, halter tops, and tube tops
- Low-rise jeans and straight-leg trousers
Top Fashion Trends for 2023
There are a lot of overlapping elements in some of these core aesthetics. Here are some trending fashion staples for 2023.
Sheer Styles
We’ve seen a lot of sheer and see-through gowns on the red carpet lately, and you can expect to see even more in 2023.
But if you’re not cool with totally freeing the nip, you can always look for pieces with sheer overlays for an airy, ethereal look.
Playful Prints
This might be one of my favorite trending styles, and one that’s a little at odds with almost everything else on this list. While most of the fashion trends for 2023 have a soft, minimalist aspect, we’ll also see a lot of playful prints and mis-matched outfits.
Maybe it’s the Portia from White Lotus effect. Or maybe it’s just because we’re all feeling a bit restless from the last few years. Either way, I’m here for it.
Feminine Flair
This year, we’re seeing an increase in feminine styles. Florals are a big trend right now, and the pink Barbiecore look is still popular. However, we’re moving away from hot pink and leaning instead towards softer, sweeter pinks.
We’re also seeing a lot of added bows and ruffles, particularly on the red carpet, to give a more feminine look.
From the Runway
2023 Runway Trends
Some other notable trends to look for this year include:
- Oversized blazers
- Extra long trench coats
- Tube dresses
- Hooded dresses
- Midi skirt and teeny crop top sets
With the exception of a trench coat, they’re not the most convenient styles (probably can’t wear them to work) but they sure are cute!
Trending Colors for 2023
Pantone announced the color of the year as Viva Magenta, but looking at the runway fashion trends, it seems like 2023 will see more muted colors.
Lilac, powder blue, and greyish beige (dubbed greige) are really popular. Even the splashes of brighter colors are a bit softer this year – with pale lime green and burnt orange being two standouts.
6 Comments
I love the mermaid and cowboy style outfits 😊
The mermaid one is so cute!
These are some lovely ideas. I can’t wait to be able to wear jackets instead of a thick coat. It’s been so cold I have had to wear several layers ha ha. Thank you for sharing.
Lauren
Same here! It’s starting to lean towards jacket weather though which is nice
I love the pale pinks of the ballet-core style but it’s the western one for me – LOVE that!
I think in moderation, it’s really cute, but it can easily go from cute to caricature