The runways were gilded at this year’s Spring/Summer 2014 shows, where metallics reigned supreme. The luxe trend was spotted on catwalks everywhere during Fashion Week, from Lanvin and Balmain to Dries Van Noten and Dolce & Gabbana. Iridescent fabrics also took center stage at the Tom Ford and Marc by Marc Jacobs shows, where the traditional golds and silvers were swapped out for more exotic metallic shades and shine.
While some of the designer runway looks were a little out there (well, what did you expect?), there are plenty of ways to incorporate this summer’s metallic trend into a more wearable wardrobe. Metallics are fantastic because they add sparkle and bling to an outfit without you having to pile on the jewelry, and they can act as glammed-up neutrals when paired with brighter colors. Check out our favorite ways to rock this dazzling trend!
1. Oxfords
If you’re as obsessed with oxfords as we are, then you’ll love these Cole Haan Gramercy Oxford Caps in Rose Gold. The metallic finish dresses things up a bit, and the rose gold is so on-trend right now (we’re imagining how adorable these would look with that rose gold Michael Kors watch we’ve been coveting!). We love oxfords because they’re so versatile in terms of when and how you can wear them; perfect for a collegiette!
2. Skater Skirt
The skater skirt is a staple in every collegiette’s summer wardrobe, but delicate floral prints and jersey fabrics are difficult to transition into nighttime wear (and, quite frankly, they’re overplayed). The easiest way to jazz up the skater skirt is to try it in an eye-catching metallic. We’re loving the way this Nasty Gal Electric Metal Skirt adds a pop of cool color and unexpected texture to this summer staple.
3. Headphones
We’re so excited that wearing headphones as an accessory is one of the major fashion trends of this spring and summer, especially since headphones are an essential on our morning commute (well, headphones and Starbucks). This gorgeous pair of Frends Rose Gold Layla Headphones are chic and functional; perfect for keeping your hair out of your face and jamming to Iggy Azalea.
4. Crop Top
Ah, the crop top. We swear we’ve already come up with at least 15 different ways to incorporate this staple into any outfit, but we think we can make room for this Forever 21 Metallic Beaded Crop Top. The metallic beading in various shapes and sizes can jazz up a basic black bodycon skirt or add some edgy texture to a more feminine circle skirt.
5. Stacked Mixed Metal Accessories
When we think metallics, we immediately think jewelry! There is no fashion rule that says you have to match all of your jewelry, and we personally love stacking jewelry in all different metals and textures, like this Kendra Phillip The Heather Trio. The gold, silver and rose gold bangles in varying textures add interest and a touch of effortless glamour to any outfit.
6. Shimmery Grecian Dress
We noticed a lot of super shiny, almost wet-looking metallics on the runway this year, and this ultra-reflective River Island One Shoulder Metallic Dress nails the catwalk look. A gold lamé dress hugs and highlights curves beautifully and is sure to make you stand out in a sea of skin-tight black dresses (in the best way!). Plus, this richly colored fabric is a great transition piece for fall. Try it with opaque black tights and booties as the weather cools down come September!
7. Streamlined Clutch
A futuristic silver clutch in a streamlined silhouette, like this Mix No. 6 Metallic Envelope Clutch, is something every collegiette should have in her wardrobe to top off any outfit. As we mentioned before, metallics can act as grounding neutrals, so a pair of silver strappy sandals and a matching clutch can work beautifully with a brighter dress for a night out. For an unexpected twist, pair this bag with an ultra-casual jeans-and-tee outfit.
Summer is the perfect time to add a few metallic pieces to your wardrobe, especially consideing the shimmering fabrics look beautiful against a sunkissed summer glow. We’ll definitely be trying out these gilded ideas this season. Shine on, collegiettes!