This year, Brisbane Festival invites you to Find Your Fit across arts, culture and, of course, fashion! We hit the streets during the Festival's opening weekend to capture the trends sweeping our River City. From the opening ceremony, to Jean Paul Gaultier’s Fashion Freak Show and Riverfire, this season is all about celebrating Brisbane’s vibrant lifestyle and warm, balmy climate. Read on for more!

Luxe meets leisure: sporty sophistication redefined

With the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games shining a spotlight on sporty fashion, the sports luxe trend is redefining casual sophistication.

The essence of sport luxe is the fusion of comfort with class, resulting in a polished yet relaxed appearance. By incorporating luxurious fabrics, precise tailoring, and a seamless blend of sporty and high-fashion elements, you can elevate your everyday wardrobe.

To achieve a refined sports luxe look, opt for tailored pieces that deliver a sharp silhouette. Mix and match items like a jersey with a pencil skirt, or pair luxe sneakers with a tailored blazer or vest. This blend of sporty and sophisticated highlights the trend’s versatility.

Asymmetrical allure: the one-shoulder trend

The one-shoulder trend is making a stylish comeback! Striking a balance between elegance and boldness, this silhouette works beautifully for both casual and formal occasions, offering versatility and contemporary appeal.

For a polished look, pair a fitted one-shoulder top or a structured dress with sleek, tailored pieces in fabrics like satin or crepe for a refined finish. For a more casual vibe, opt for oversized one-shoulder tops or flowy maxi dresses. These pieces offer a relaxed, effortless charm while highlighting the trend’s unique silhouette.

If you’re feeling adventurous, embrace dramatic one-shoulder designs with ruffles or elaborate detailing. These statement items can create memorable fashion moments. Balance the look with minimal accessories—think a single statement earring or subtle jewellery to let the one-shoulder design stand out.

Primary colours pop: bold and timeless

Whether you opt for vibrant monochromatic outfits or dynamic colour blocking, primary colours, like red blue and yellow, are setting the tone for this year’s style trends.

To make a statement, try head-to-toe monochromatic looks — think fiery red suits, deep blue dresses, or sunny yellow ensembles. Match accessories and shoes to keep the look cohesive. Alternatively, embrace colour blocking by combining contrasting primary shades, like a blue blazer with red trousers or a yellow skirt with a blue top. This technique allows you to experiment with bold combinations for eye-catching outfits.

For a subtler approach, use primary colours as accents. Bright red shoes, a blue handbag, or a yellow belt can elevate a neutral outfit without overwhelming your look. Balance these vibrant hues with neutrals to avoid a colour overload.

Double denim revival: fresh and versatile

Double denim is back in style, shaking off its previous faux pas. This trend is all about blending classic style with a contemporary edge. Mix different washes, textures, and silhouettes to create a dynamic look.

Fit:
Choosing well-tailored pieces is key to modernising double denim. Opt for a fitted denim jacket with straight-leg jeans or a cropped jacket with high-waisted trousers for a streamlined silhouette.

Cuts and silhouettes:
Embrace trendy denim cuts like high-waisted jeans, oversized jackets, and denim dresses. Mixing these updated styles with classic pieces ensures a fresh take on double denim.

Embellish:
Add a touch of fun with embellishments like pearls or embroidery. These details can elevate your denim look.

Key pieces:
Denim is a timeless staple, and you probably already have some pieces in your wardrobe. If not, investing in high-quality, eco-friendly denim items made from organic cotton or recycled fibres is a smart choice.

The key to rocking double denim is to have fun. Mix and match to create a fashion-forward outfit that suits any occasion.

Shine bright: elevate your style with summer metallics

Spring summer 2024 is all about adding a high-shine factor to your wardrobe. Metallics, sequins, and liquid-like fabrics are set to dazzle this season! Although high-shine pieces may seem bold, they’re perfect for adding a touch of glamour to your outfit.

Pair a metallic top with white shorts or a sequin skirt with a simple tank for a chic daytime look. Metallic-coated denim adds a twist to your basic jeans-and-tee combo. As the party season approaches, opt for sequined dresses, diamante-embellished tops, and liquid gold jumpsuits. Mix these with neutral basics for a relaxed yet elevated look.

Accessories are a great way to incorporate the high-shine trend without committing to a full metallic outfit. Try metallic heels or a gold crossbody bag to add a splash of shine to any ensemble.

Sheer delight: summer’s hottest see-through trends

Sheer fabrics are making a bold statement this summer, bringing an element of elegance and playfulness to your wardrobe. From delicate lace to loose knits, mastering the sheer trend can be effortless and chic.

Sheer fabrics are ideal for staying cool and stylish. Pair lightweight sheer cotton shirting with jeans or a crochet top with tailored linen shorts for a daytime look. For an evening event, a sheer lace top with a high-waisted, floor-length skirt creates a sophisticated ensemble. Opt for a full-length sheer dress or layer with a cropped jacket for a dramatic effect.

Layering is key with sheer fabrics. Choose your base layer, such as a fitted camisole or bralette, in nude or matching tones for coverage while embracing the trend. A cropped or oversized blazer can add a polished touch.

For those not keen on nude, incorporate the style with a crochet bag or netted ballet flats.

On pointe: the rise of kitten heels and ballet flats

This summer, comfort meets style with the return of kitten heels and ballet flats. Seen on runways at Miu Miu, Balenciaga, and Chanel, these versatile shoes add a touch of elegance while keeping your feet comfortable.

Kitten heels are perfect for events, offering style without sacrificing comfort. Look for pointed toes with studs or metallic finishes to add glamour. Pair them with summer dresses or A-line skirts and opt for glam-thong styles with cropped jeans or tailored shorts for a chic look.

For daytime wear, choose classic ballet flats with fine bows or opt for mesh fabrics, buckles, and embellishments. Elongated toes and sling-back designs make these flats refined and suitable for events. Pair them with wide-leg pants or jeans for a polished finish.

Shop the trends in-centre

Loving the trends of Brisbane Festival and want to find your fit? Shop the looks below at Westfield Chermside.

Aje Athletica - Logo Denim Jacket $395.00

Stylerunner - New Balance 327 $160

Seed Heritage - Chain Geo Maxi Dress $199.95

Witchery - Bubble Knit Dress $199

Sacha Drake - Chickadee Mini Dress $499

Country Road - Self Stripe Short Sleeve Shirt $159 and Self Stripe Pant $179

Polo Ralph Lauren - Ruffle-Trim Georgette Maxidress $999

Assembly Label - Winnie Denim Jacket $150, Longline Denim Shorts $100, Marlow Boxy Denim Shirt $120

Sheike - Pilot Jacket $199.99 & Beaumont Jean $139.99

Polo Ralph Lauren - Patchwork Relaxed Tapered Jean $549

Boss - Mini skirt with sequined fringing $369

Forever New - Sylvie Sequin Clutch Bag $69.99

Aje - Mosaic Crochet Midi Dress $545

Nude Lucy - Hans Shirt $110

Sabo Skirt - Chantel Knit Shorts $82 & Chantel Knit Top $108

Jo Mercer - Victoria Dress Flats $219.95 & Yuri High Heels $219.95

Billini - Hollis Black Flats $89.95

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Photographed by Taylor Kezia, @taylorkezia, during the opening weekend of Brisbane Festival.

Written by Westfield stylists, Jules Jackson and Georgia Rostagno.

Jules Jackson

As a working mother with three children, Jules’ approach to styling is to understand the needs of her clients to create a wardrobe that effortlessly caters for all facets of their life – work, weekend, social events and in between. With over 20 years experience, Jules helps maximise her clients wardrobe options, whilst working within their budget.

Georgia Rostagno

Georgia Rostagno is a well-respected and in-demand Australian fashion stylist who has been in the industry for over a decade. Georgia’s work expands across fashion, jewellery, e-commerce and beauty and has seen her involved with well-renowned photographers and industry experts, with a lot of her work being published in various publications worldwide.

With every style session, Georgia wants her clients to leave the session feeling amazing from head-to-toe. She will make sure you are dressed for your body shape and will style within your budget.

Book a Personal Styling session or learn more about our stylists here.