The runways of Paris and Milan have spoken, and the latest season brings a fresh wave of inspiration that is sure to shake up your wardrobe. From breathtaking displays of craftsmanship to bold new directions, designers delivered collections that were both innovative and wearable. The best part about fashion week is seeing how these big ideas can trickle down into everyday style. You don't need a runway budget to feel current. Focus on incorporating one or two key trends that speak to you. Fashion should be about expressing yourself, and these latest trends offer plenty of exciting new ways to do that. Get ready to discover the top trends straight from the fashion capitals, and find out how you can start incorporating them into your look right now. 

A Season of Contrasts

This fashion month was a story of beautiful contradictions. We saw a powerful mix of dramatic, over-the-top glamour alongside a return to refined, minimalist elegance. Designers played with history, pulling inspiration from different decades while pushing silhouettes into the future. It’s all about finding your personal style within these exciting new themes.

Ready to dive in? Here are the standout trends you need to know from Paris and Milan.

Top Trends from the Runways

A Splash of Bold Color

While neutral palettes will always have their place, this season was dominated by vibrant, unapologetic color. Designers splashed their collections with rich, saturated hues that demand attention.

  • Cherry Red: This was, without a doubt, the color of the season. From Gucci's striking leather coats to Valentino's flowing evening gowns, cherry red appeared everywhere. It’s a powerful, confident color that instantly makes a statement.
  • Cobalt Blue: Another eye-catching shade that made waves was a deep, electric cobalt blue. We saw it on tailored suits at Fendi and on slinky dresses at Ferragamo. This shade feels both regal and modern.
  • How to Wear It: You don't have to go head-to-toe in a bright color. Try adding a pop of cherry red with a handbag or a pair of shoes. A cobalt blue sweater paired with classic jeans is an easy way to bring this trend into your everyday life.

The Resurgence of the 1990s

Nostalgia continues to be a major force in fashion, and this season, the 1990s took center stage. Designers reinterpreted the decade's minimalist and grunge aesthetics for a modern audience.

  • Sleek Minimalism: Think clean lines, simple slip dresses, and column skirts. Prada led the charge with impeccably tailored, understated pieces that felt both timeless and fresh. The focus was on beautiful fabrics and perfect cuts.
  • Utility and Cargo: The practical, utilitarian elements of the '90s are back in a big way. Cargo pants, oversized pockets, and durable fabrics were spotted at Miu Miu and Jil Sander, but with a more refined, high-fashion twist.
  • How to Wear It: A simple slip dress is a versatile piece you can dress up with heels or down with sneakers and a cardigan. To try the utility trend, look for a well-cut pair of cargo trousers and style them with a simple, fitted top to balance the volume.

Innovative Silhouettes and Proportions

Designers got creative with shapes, challenging traditional silhouettes and playing with proportions to create new and exciting forms.

  • The Bubble Skirt: This playful, voluminous silhouette made a surprising comeback. We saw bubble hems on skirts and dresses at shows like Dior and Brandon Maxwell. It’s a fun, feminine trend that adds a touch of whimsy to any outfit.
  • Sculptural Shoulders: Strong, defined shoulders continue to be a focus. At Saint Laurent, blazers featured powerful, sharp shoulders that created a commanding silhouette. This architectural detail adds structure and confidence.
  • How to Wear It: A bubble skirt can be surprisingly easy to style. Pair it with a simple, fitted top to let the skirt be the star. For a more subtle take on the strong shoulder trend, look for blazers or blouses with slight padding or interesting shoulder details.

Sheer and Transparent Layers

Delicate, see-through fabrics brought a sense of romance and vulnerability to the runways. Designers used sheer materials to create looks that were both ethereal and daring.

  • Layered Transparency: At Dior, Maria Grazia Chiuri layered sheer organza skirts over structured shorts, playing with opacity and revealing a hint of what lies beneath. This layering technique adds depth and dimension.
  • Delicate Details: Intricate lace and gossamer-thin fabrics were used for everything from blouses to full evening gowns. At Versace, sheer panels were strategically placed to add a touch of allure to otherwise classic dresses.
  • How to Wear It: Sheer fabrics can be very wearable. A sheer blouse with a camisole underneath is a classic look. You can also layer a transparent top over a simple dress or wear a sheer skirt over leggings for a fashion-forward take.

Notable Collections That Defined the Season

A few key collections truly captured the spirit of the season and set the tone for what’s to come.

  • Prada: Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons delivered a collection that was a masterclass in modern elegance. They combined historical references with futuristic touches, featuring everything from delicate organza dresses to sharply tailored outerwear.
  • Gucci: Sabato De Sarno's debut for Gucci ushered in a new era of sleek, sophisticated glamour. The collection was filled with covetable, wearable pieces in a standout palette of cherry red, crisp white, and classic neutrals.
  • Saint Laurent: Anthony Vaccarello continued to perfect his vision of powerful, Parisian chic. The collection was all about sharp tailoring, strong shoulders, and a confident, unapologetic sense of style.