The term "microtrend" is one we use carefully here at Who What Wear UK. Some microtrends are created with the sole purpose of sparking a viral moment sprinkled with shock and awe, and those are not the kind we're interested in. Instead, as a season unfolds, we like to keep a close eye on how the larger trends we've seen on the runways are actually being translated and worn in real life. Subtler offshoots of the creations debuted during fashion month, they have just as much of a current feel as some of the more directional alternatives you might see, but they're dialled down enough to feel relevant for the long run.
Spring 2024 has barely begun, but already, I'm beginning to see some excellent and very stylish microtrends come into play; from the print that's taking over right now and proving most covetable when worn in a particular way to the flat-shoe style fashion people have started trading in their boots for.
Keep scrolling to see the eight spring 2024 microtrends that will make our outfits feel fresh this season and have staying power for future springs, too.
SPRING 2024 MICROTRENDS TO TRY
1. LEOPARD TROUSERS
Style Notes: Leopard print is one of spring's biggest trends, no contest. A key part of the "mob wife" aesthetic with a strong presence on the runways, its fate was sealed from the moment 2024 began. Now, however, we're starting to see the very particular ways in which fashion people are wearing it, and surprisingly, trousers seem to be the go-to. Choose from tailored styles or jeans—so long as they feature a big-cat print, they'll be in.
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2. WAISTCOATS OVER TEES
Style Notes: If you're anything like me, chances are you've already invested in a tailored waistcoat co-ord and are counting down to the warmer days when you can confidently wear it once more without the need for a coat. Until that opportunity presents itself, take your cues from stylish social-media dressers, who I keep seeing layering their waistcoats over tees. So '90s, so cool.
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3. STUDDED BELTS
Style Notes: Khaite's Benny belt has become one of the most in-demand accessories of 2024 so far. Crafted from thick, black leather and embellished with jumbo, silver studs and a western-adjacent buckle, the belt is a cult item in its own right. Stock levels have been largely depleted since January, so it makes sense that other brands have begun serving up their own alternatives With styles at a variety of price points, I know the studded-belt microtrend is only going to feel more prevalent as the season progresses.
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4. WHITE CIRCLE SKIRTS
Style Notes: As soon as the brighter days roll around, it's like a switch is flicked inside me, and all I want to wear is white. It still feels a touch too soon to dust off my cotton dresses just yet though, so I'll get my fix by way of one of the many, many white midi and maxi skirts on the market. With a full silhouette that'll make you look like you're walking on air, add to the elegant feel of the piece by styling it with a fitted blazer, ballet flats and demure drop earrings.
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5. JUMBO BEAD NECKLACES
Style Notes: Jewellery has the power to change the tone of any look, and whilst last year was all about the statement stud earring (we have Bottega Veneta to thank for that), the chunky theme continues for 2024, but this time it's all about jumbo bead necklaces. Almost a choker in length, these necklaces look their chicest sitting just above the collarbone and will help you breathe a new lease of life into even your most worn pieces.
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6. DENIM ON DENIM
Style Notes: All-denim outfits were prevalent on the S/S '24 runways and are set to be just as big for autumn. One of the easiest microtrends to replicate from your own wardrobe (assuming you own a pair of jeans and either a denim shirt, jacket or top), I'm a Canadian citizen, so consider this your official invitation to try your hand at our national tuxedo.
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7. BUTTERMILK YELLOW
Style Notes: Shake up your roster of neutral clothing with the addition of something in this expensive-looking, pale yellow tone. Just as versatile as any beige, camel or taupe piece but considerably more "fashion", wear this colour with your basics for an instant refresh, or try clashing with other classic spring colours.
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8. TWO-TONE LOAFERS
Style Notes: I used to teeter around in high heels all the time, but now I only have eyes (and feet?) for flats. Between ballet slippers and slingbacks, I thought I'd worked my way through every flat shoe I could, including loafers, but one look at my FYP confirms that there's a fresh trend I should be trying in 2024: two-tone loafers. Choose between black, tan or navy as your darker base, then let the white and ecru panels make them all the more spring-worthy.
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