Seasonal Style Shift No. 2
The New Romance
Soft femininity is making a confident return this season. Lace-trim satin skirts, satin boxer shorts, silk camisoles and delicate lingerie-inspired details are being styled with oversized shirts, chunky knits and relaxed tailoring, creating a modern contrast that feels effortless rather than overly romantic. This is one of the most fun high-low contrasts to explore in fashion.
The pieces you’ll see everywhere
Rather than one hero garment, this style shift appears across multiple wardrobe categories:
- Lace-trim satin skirts - seen
- Lace-trim satin shorts - seen
- Satin boxer shorts - seen
- Bias-cut slip skirts - seen
- Satin slip dresses - seen
- Silk camisoles - new
- Lace-trim tank tops - new and seen
- Crochet shorts - new and seen
- Lightweight cardigans - new and seen
- Fine knit jumpers - new
- Oversized white shirts - new (this season they are hugely oversized)
- Leather flip-flops - seen
- Ballet flats - seen
-
Soft suede accessories - new and seen
The look and feel
Unlike the lingerie-inspired fashion of previous years, this season feels more balanced and wearable, almost ‘ old school 90’s ‘.
Think:
- soft rather than sweet (luxurious, old money, neutral colours as opposed to candy or pastel shades)
- effortless and simple rather than overdressed (one piece per outfit, not an entire look of satin and lace)
- relaxed rather than polished (oversized and loose fitting rather than figure skimming)
- modern rather than vintage (there’s a soft and muted lustre to the fabrics used now)
- feminine with a masculine contrast (high-low dressing)
The easiest way to wear this trend is by pairing one romantic piece with something structured or oversized. A lace-trim skirt with an oversized shirt, satin shorts with a chunky knit, or a silk camisole under a relaxed blazer all create the balance that defines this look.
Who should try it?
This style shift works beautifully for women who enjoy timeless dressing but want to soften their wardrobe with texture rather than colour.
It particularly suits:
- Classic style personalities
- Modern Classics
- Soft Naturals
- Romantics
- Contemporary dressers
- Feminine dressers
- Minimalists looking to introduce texture
Because the styling relies on contrast rather than excessive femininity, it works across a wide range of ages and personal styles.
What I’d buy
✔ A lace-trim satin midi skirt in ivory, black or chocolate
✔ Satin boxer shorts (if you’re comfortable wearing it)
✔ A silk camisole
✔ An oversized white cotton shirt
✔ A lightweight grey/ mushroom/ stone coloured knit
✔ Leather flip-flops
✔ Mesh ballet flats (if they suit your figure)
What I’d skip
✘ Cheap shiny satin that looks synthetic - keep to matte lustres
✘ Excessive bows and embellishment
✘ Matching lingerie-inspired co-ords worn head-to-toe
✘ Lace that feels overly bridal or costume-like
✘ Pieces that genuinely resemble sleepwear - like long trousers with a lace trim or long sleeved blouses with lace inserts
Curated Style Verdict
Investment Rating: ★★★★☆
According to me and my research, ‘The New Romance’ is one of the most wearable style shifts of the season, but its value ultimately depends on your personal style.
If you naturally gravitate towards soft, feminine dressing or enjoy incorporating romantic details into your wardrobe, this is easily a ★★★★★ investment. Lace-trim satin skirts, silk camisoles and fluid fabrics have the potential to become modern wardrobe staples that you’ll reach for long after the season ends. You’ve probably been missing these pieces in your wardrobe for past seasons.
If your style is more classic, minimalist, sporty or tailored, I’d rate it a ★★★★☆. Rather than embracing the trend head-to-toe, I’d suggest introducing it through just one thoughtfully chosen piece, such as a satin skirt, lace-trim camisole or satin boxer shorts. Styled with structured basics like an oversized shirt, relaxed knit or tailored blazer, you’ll achieve the look without compromising your personal style.
As always, the goal isn’t to wear every trend. It’s to identify the ones that genuinely complement your wardrobe and make getting dressed feel effortless! Xxx m