Spring/Summer 25–26 (AU): The Brand-Aligned Trend Edit

When an outfit looks great but doesn’t feel like you, something’s off. As we head into Spring/Summer ’25–’26 in Australia, here’s the trend edit—and the brand-first filter—to make sure what you add actually advances your identity and presence.

Start Here: Your 4-Question Brand Filter

Before you buy, try on, or pin anything, ask:

Is this how I want to be experienced? (calm authority, creative confidence, warm leadership?)
Does it reflect what I stand for—not just what I do?
Does it feel like me in this season (right now)?
Can it support my next move? (speaking gigs, promotions, visibility goals)

If it’s not a clear yes to at least three, let it go.

Big Seasonal Themes

Strength + Soft Femininity: Pair structure (tailoring, clean lines) with movement (fluid skirts, gently draped blouses).
Utility, Refined: Unexpected pockets or utility elements softened by silky textures or a feminine silhouette.
Blurred Dress Codes: Sport-luxe and preppy references (think polished polos, refined athleisure details) step into office-appropriate territory.
Double Denim: Less novelty, more uniform—denim sets as a weekday staple.

Fabrics & Textures to Watch

Romantic blouses: Sheer/crepe/silk with considered details (bow ties, extended cuffs, balloon sleeves).
Tactile knits: Natural fibres with visible texture keep casual pieces elevated.
Tailored ease: Lighter, breathable suiting that balances structure with comfort.

Prints & Patterns

Polka dots: Still strong—great for playful polish.
Gingham & stripes: Preppy uptick that reads fresh for summer.
Florals: Stay present; mix with checks/stripes for a modern edge.

Silhouette Update

Slip dresses: ’90s/’00s minimalism returns—layer with cropped jackets or sharp shirting.
Barrel-leg pants: Now widely available—test proportions with a fitted or cropped top.
Cropped jackets: Clean up your thirds; instant balance over dresses or high-waist trousers.
Side-stripe tailored pants: Athlletic detail, office-ready execution; the vertical line favors petites.

Footwear Refresh

Elevated “flip-flop”: The heeled thong sandal—love-it or skip-it; very trend-led.
Mary Janes (airy): Open weaves and lighter finishes for warm weather.
Delicate peep-toe: Softly feminine, works with denim or dresses.

Color Strategy (When Pastels Aren’t Your Friends)

Spring palettes skew gelato and light. If those wash you out:

Keep your best colors close to the face (scarves, shells, blouses).
Use trending hues away from the face (skirts, pants, accessories).
Choose prints that incorporate your tones to harmonize the whole look.

Petite Power Tips

Leverage verticals (side stripes, long lapels, column dressing).
Favor cropped or waist-defining toppers to keep the rule of thirds.
Streamline shoes (low-profile flats, refined sandals) to extend the leg line.

Work-to-Weekend Integration

Your brand doesn’t clock off. Build pieces that dial up or down:

Slip dress + cropped blazer + heeled sandal (work) → swap to denim jacket + flats (weekend).
Side-stripe trouser + silk blouse (work) → tank + slides (weekend).

Make It Yours: A 20-Minute Try-On Plan

Pull 3 items you already love from last summer.
Add 2 trend-touches to test (e.g., gingham shirt, romantic blouse).
Run the 4-question filter.
Photograph the winners—those are your go-to formulas.

Ready for an aligned refresh?
DM me RESET for the free Five-Minute Leadership Wardrobe Reset, or book a Style & Brand Clarity Session to curate your SS ’25–’26 capsule with confidence.

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