As I delved into the vibrant world of spring/summer ’25 fashion collections, I found myself captivated not just by the silhouette of the season’s denim (still baggy, naturally!), but by the intricate details that truly set these jeans apart. I’m obsessed with the tiny, almost hidden design choices that make a brand’s jeans stand out from the crowd. (Have you ever noticed Stella McCartney’s signature J-stitch accented with a rivet? It’s genius!)
This quest for those hidden gems led me on an unexpected style journey, a runway-to-reality adventure centered around my all-time favorite – denim!
It all began with a men’s look at Bottega Veneta (look 19). Something clicked within me: What if I took the individual elements and fabric themes from those close-up shots and used them to create my own unique shopping list?
I decided to play with the styling, staying true to the color palettes but leaving direct imitation behind. Instead, I embraced a loose interpretation – a wide-legged jean, perhaps, transformed into a flowing maxi skirt. Sometimes, the translation was more literal, like swapping a woven leather loafer for a woven leather ballet flat. But the most fun came from turning accessories into statement pieces, like a crochet flower becoming a charming brooch on a knitted sweater.
This approach yielded outfits that are not only wearable and trendy, but also incredibly fresh and exciting.
Here are five runway flashes that inspired me to create completely new, head-turning looks:
Indigo Arts and Crafty Crochet:
The crochet flowers in this look are pure magic! To recreate this vibe, I paired a hand-knit sweater with a brooch pinned to a trench coat. Any denim style will work as long as it’s a true blue.
Proper English With a Bow on Top:
The floral hem of these jeans practically begged to be turned into a blouse! The key was finding one with a black background. Pointelle socks translate smoothly to a sweet, cap-sleeve sweater. To add a touch of whimsy, I incorporated a red accessory.
Feathery Tops and Robin’s Egg Blues:
As much as I adore the trailing chiffon cape, I wanted something more practical. This piece from Toteme beautifully balances the wide-leg denim, making it perfect for both daytime and holiday party season.
Chevron and Chambray All The Way:
Ralph Lauren’s look offers so much inspiration – the bag’s bamboo handle and chevron print, the rope belt, the paisley scarf. To translate it into a modern outfit, I channeled the bag’s print into a sweater, and everything fell effortlessly into place. The scarf can be used as a chic hair accessory or tied around a bag handle, like this one from Clare V.
Classic With a Casual-Cool Twist:
Inspired by Sacai’s look 9, I envisioned a sneaker as the perfect complement to a peacoat. Metal mixing is a must with this look – gold buttons, silver jewelry. To soften things up even more, I suggest incorporating a touch of the model’s gorgeous lip color into your accessories. Try a delicate sock for a touch of romantic contrast.These are just a few examples of how to translate runway inspiration into wearable, stylish everyday outfits. Remember, the key is to focus on the details that spark your imagination and experiment with different combinations until you find a look that truly reflects your unique style. Go forth and get dressed in something completely now and new!
