Fashion trends threading 2024 (Photo: iStock)

As the sustainability revolution gains momentum, recycling, upcycling, and DIY ethos will take centre stage in 2024 fashion. More and more people are joining the cause to reduce waste and conserve resources by giving used materials and fabrics a second life.

Looking forward to retro trends plus modern upgrades with contemporary silhouettes, fabrics, and styling. But the bold, experimental attitude of 80s and 90s fashion will live on. Nostalgia for these decades is surging, and fashion is set to harness that through reinvented looks.

As people crave more opportunities for creative self-expression, fashion will satisfy that through playful prints and patterns. Florals will provide a dose of dreamy romanticism, with digital printing allowing oversized blooms, neon palettes, and retro-inspired designs.

Checkerboard motifs will add striking graphic contrast when mixed with other patterns. Pattern clashing will add whimsical contrast.

More androgynous and non-gendered pieces. Unisex silhouettes will remove the divisions between menswear and womenswear. Loose, boxy fits and minimalist styles will allow flexible interpretation.

Sharply tailored suits and loose trousers may be worn by any gender. Soft, flowing designs could move from women’s fashion into the mainstream.

Silhouettes will channel 1960s mod style and disco glamour to capture the excitement of space age discovery. Graphic celestial prints, optical designs, and cosmic inspiration will be trippy, psychedelic even. Paired with go-go boots and metallic makeup, the vibe will be intergalactic disco.

Billowy, puffed sleeves, layered petticoats, and exaggerated shoulders will create a dramatic silhouette. Decadent velvets, rich brocades, and floral-printed satins will evoke aristocratic luxury. Pastel hues like lilac, pearl pink, and dusky blue will reflect the era’s ethereal colour palette.

Jorts, also known as jean shorts, had a brief viral moment in 2023 but many were quick to dismiss them. However, in 2024 jorts will make a comeback in new stylish iterations that have lasting potential. 

The athleisure trend has fundamentally shaped how we dress in recent years. In 2024, the prominence of athletic-inspired styles will reach new heights as they become further ingrained across all occasions.

Casual gatherings and nights out will see even more creative athleisure looks. Luxe jogger pants, metallic puffer jackets, and mesh cutout dresses will bring glamour to laidback style. Leather leggings, plunging sports bras, and bomber jackets will take date-night attire into edgy activewear territory.

Shoes on the other side will balance comfort, versatility and standout self-expression with more eco-conscious and technical fabrication. The boundaries between athletic wear, casual style and fashion will keep blurring.

Platforms in most dress styles will continue to be a go-to shoe for making a bold fashion statement. Massive platforms add height in an exaggerated way that flats or low heels simply cannot replicate. The increased sole height also helps elongate the legs and create a powerful, eye-catching silhouette.