By Grace Ifunanya Ariwodo
As the global fashion elite descended on the world’s style capitals for Fashion Week 2024, the streets outside the runways became as much of a spectacle as the shows themselves.
This year, street style was all about making bold statements, with fashion enthusiasts showcasing a mix of daring trends that are set to dominate the season.
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Here’s a look at the most striking trends spotted outside the shows.
- Neon Colours
Neon hues were impossible to miss this season, as fashion week attendees embraced electric greens, hot pinks, and vibrant oranges. These bold colours were seen in everything from oversized coats to accessories, making a vivid statement against the often grey urban backdrops. Neon was not just a colour choice but a declaration of confidence and individuality. - Oversized Silhouettes
Continuing a trend from previous seasons, oversized clothing ruled the streets. Baggy trousers, oversized blazers, and voluminous dresses were everywhere, often paired with chunky footwear to balance out the proportions. This trend is all about comfort meeting couture, offering a relaxed yet high-fashion look that plays with scale and proportion. - Mixing Prints and Patterns
Fashion Week 2024 saw an explosion of print mixing, with style mavens fearlessly combining stripes, florals, checks, and animal prints. The key to this trend is confidence—wearers clashed patterns with purpose, creating visually striking outfits that defied conventional fashion rules. The result was a joyful, maximalist approach that turned heads. - Tech-Inspired Fashion
As technology continues to influence every aspect of life, it’s no surprise that it’s also inspiring fashion. This season, street style featured a blend of futuristic designs, including reflective materials, LED-infused accessories, and garments with built-in tech features. This trend highlighted the ongoing fusion of fashion and technology, offering a glimpse into what the future of style might hold. - Vintage Revival
The past was very much present at Fashion Week 2024, with many attendees opting for vintage pieces or outfits that nodded to previous decades. From 70s-inspired flared jeans to 90s grunge plaid, the streets were filled with nostalgia. However, these looks were often updated with a modern twist, proving that old can still be new when styled creatively. - Sustainable Statements
Sustainability continues to be a significant focus in the fashion industry, and this was reflected in the street style choices of 2024. Many fashion enthusiasts made conscious choices, wearing outfits made from recycled materials, second-hand finds, or supporting emerging designers with eco-friendly credentials. This trend wasn’t just about what was worn but also the message behind it—fashion that doesn’t cost the earth.