This summer's sartorial splash is all about embracing the laid-back vibes of the beach. Dubbed the 'board short summer', this trend is riding a wave of popularity, washing up on high-fashion runways and flooding onto our high streets. Gone are the days when surf-inspired styles were confined to niche communities – now everyone wants in on the action.
Luxury brands are leading the charge, with Miu Miu's satin shorts and Dries Van Noten's sparkly versions sending shockwaves through the fashion world. Flip-flops, a staple of beach life, have made a triumphant return to catwalks courtesy of Chloé, Balenciaga, and Bottega Veneta. But Louis Vuitton took it to new heights with an 8-metre wave in central Paris for its June show – who needs the coast when you can bring the beach to the city?
The trend is also making waves on our high streets, with retailers reporting a surge in demand for board-like shorts and accessories. Uniqlo's long-selling board shorts are flying off the shelves, while Asos is cashing in on the craze with blue baseball caps emblazoned with 'surf instructor' – because who doesn't want to be seen as an expert in the art of riding the waves?
The 'board short summer' draws heavily from the classic surf narratives that have captured our imaginations. Think Point Break, Blue Juice, and William Finnegan's memoir Barbarian Days. It's all about embracing a relaxed, sun-faded style that's as much about feeling free as it is about looking cool – oversized shorts, vintage T-shirts, and bleached hair are the order of the day.
We headed to Newquay in Cornwall to get the lowdown from those who live and breathe surf culture. Delphine Gwilliam-O'Connor, 28, an artist and surfer from the area, gave us her take on the trend: "It's not about copying our style – it's about authenticity. We just wear what makes us feel comfortable." This sentiment echoes among actual surfers, who are more interested in keeping it real than dressing up for the cameras.