Why bold multicolor stripes are the summer 2025 must-have
This season, stripes aren’t just a pattern—they’re a full-on visual statement. The PE2025 runway shows sent a clear message: bold, rainbow-hued lines across dresses, tops, trousers, bags and jewelry are the fastest way to inject energy, confidence and a designer touch into your summer wardrobe.
The design language behind the lines
Multicolor stripes go beyond simple graphic flair. They speak of:
Architectural inspiration: Geometric cuts and clean lines mirror modern interior and product design.
Bold elegance: An audacious mix of pastel and vivid tones that commands attention without shouting.
Summer vibrance: A palette that echoes sunshine, sky and sandy shores—think butter yellow, cerulean blue, terracotta and neutral beige.
These stripes act as a visual roadmap, guiding the eye up and down the silhouette to accentuate curves or create the illusion of height and slimness.
Key runway references: Prada leads the charge
As often happens, Prada set the tone. Their latest collection featured:
Luxe polo dresses in retro knit stripes, with buttoned necklines and matching culottes in optical white, anthracite and sand.
Ribbed jersey pieces that hug the body while offering flexible comfort—ideal for hot summer days.
Subtle metallic threads woven into the stripes to catch the light and add a whisper of glamour.
From Milan to Paris, other designers echoed the theme: narrow stripes on silky slip dresses, thick candy-barreled lines on breezy maxi skirts, and even fine pinstripes on lightweight blazers.
How to wear multicolor stripes with style
Ready to embrace the trend? Here’s how to make stripes work in your daily life, whether you’re beach-bound or headed to a rooftop cocktail party.
Neutral foundation: Pair a boldly striped top with neutral bottoms—think white linen trousers or a beige midi skirt—to balance the look and avoid visual overload.
Mix with other prints: Don’t fear pattern play. Try stripes with florals or dark plaids to create an unexpected yet harmonious clash.
Monotone accessories: Tone down brighter hues with shoes and bags in the same family—cream espadrilles, tan crossbody bags or mid-tone brown mules.
Statement jewelry: Opt for thin metallic bangles or rings etched with micro-stripes, or choose enamel pieces in matching stripe colours for a cohesive accent.
Head-to-toe stripes: For maximal impact, coordinate a striped dress with matching striped sandals, and top with a crochet bucket hat featuring glitchy stripe motifs.
5 striped pieces to copy this season
Here are five wardrobe heroes to shop now, inspired by the PE2025 runways:
Striped tank and linen pants: A soft pastel ribbed tank with vertical stripes meets wide-leg beige linen—effortless for weekend brunch.
Cropped stripe blazer: A lightweight, cotton-blend blazer in butter yellow and white stripes instantly elevates shorts or a slip dress.
Vintage-inspired striped slip dress: Bias-cut silk in cerulean, amethyst and sand stripes for a romantic evening look.
Multicolor straw tote: Handwoven bag in horizontal stripes, perfect for beach days or farmer’s markets.
Striped statement earrings: Long acrylic earrings in rainbow stripes to frame the face and tie in your outfit colours.
Beyond clothing: stripes in beauty and lifestyle
Stripes aren’t confined to fabric. Carry the trend into your beauty routine and home décor:
Striped nail art: Try a summer mani with alternating pastel and neon stripes—easy to DIY or request at the salon.
Bold striped home textiles: Cushions or beach towels with chunky lines in your favourite colour combos bring a designer edge to your space.
Striped hair scarves: A lightweight cotton scarf in bright stripes knots around a ponytail for instant vintage-chic flair.
Patterned eyewear: Acetate sunglasses with subtle tone-on-tone stripes complement any outfit without distraction.
Why stripes will never go out of style
Stripes boast a timeless appeal: they can be minimalist or statement-making, casual or refined. In summer 2025, their colourful reinvention radiates confidence and spontaneity. Whether you stick to narrow pinstripes or plunge into bold color-blocked bars, this trend invites you to wear your mood on your sleeves—literally. Ready to stripe your summer wardrobe?
