Biblical 2018 Summer Fashion Trends that Celebrate Spirituality

If you’re anything like me, your sense of style is irrevocably tied to whatever trends are on the deep discount rack at Kohl’s.

For most of my life, my style icon was 1 Peter 3: “Your adornment should not be an external one: braiding the hair, wearing gold jewelry, or dressing in fine clothes, but rather the hidden character of the heart, expressed in the imperishable beauty of a gentle and calm disposition, which is precious in the sight of God.”

Sure, having a peaceful and pleasant heart is vitally important, but so is a welcoming look. You can’t share the good news if your look turns people away.

It wasn’t until recently that I realized that embracing the best version of myself isn’t vain. It’s a celebration of my creator! God designed and formed every detail of me. Fashion frames his creation like a treasured work of art.

You don’t have to settle for clothes that are baggy, bunchy or unflattering. Dressing with style is about celebrating you and your magnificent creator.

Choose pieces that make you smile, and for goodness sake, try them on! Before you buy, be certain that your clothes fit and flatter your unique frame.

Believe it or not, many of this year’s summer trends have biblical roots. This season, hit the stores and search for on-trend pieces that celebrate your spirituality. Who knows, your new digs might spark a conversation with someone new!

1. Metallics

Metallics

“Yet he knows my way; if he tested me, I should come forth like gold.” (Job 23:10)

Gold, silver and bronze tones speak to Christ’s royalty and the riches of heaven. Add a touch of shine to your wardrobe and marvel at the bright future you have in Christ. Feeling lost? Men can start small with chic bronze rimmed aviators or go bold with a shiny gold blazer. Ladies, try some asymmetrical gold earrings or a pretty rose gold clutch.

2. Palms

Palms

“On the next day, when the great crowd that had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem,  they took palm branches and went out to meet him, and cried out: ‘Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, the king of Israel.'” (John 12:12-13)

When it comes to scripture, palms are synonymous with praise. So raise a joyful song to the Lord this season with lush, leafy prints. Ladies can find tropical prints on everything from over-sized totes to swimwear to breezy summer dresses. Men, this is your chance to embrace the Hawaiian shirt. Choose a slim fitting style for a modern look. If your style tends toward more casual pieces, there are plenty of tropical tanks, tees and shorts to choose from. 

3. Dadcore

Dadcore

“Do you not know that the runners in the stadium all run in the race, but only one wins the prize? Run so as to win. (1 Corinthians 9:24)

The iconic 1980s era track suits are back and better than ever. Nostalgia dictates that this be my favorite fashion trend of the year, but it really does have its advantages. Don’t have matching heels or sleek oxfords to go with your evening wear? Just throw on a pair of neon sneakers and call it Dad wear. You’ll be ready to run the race towards Heaven anytime, anywhere. If neon sneaks aren’t your style, try a color block windbreaker or fanny pack – ahem – belt bag.

4. Star Prints

Star Prints

“When you find yourself tossed by the raging storms on this great sea of life, far from land, keep your eyes fixed on this Star to avoid disaster.  When the winds of temptation or the rocks of tribulation threaten, look up to the Star, call upon Mary!” (Saint Bernard)

Our Lady is often referred to as Stella Maris, the Star of the Sea. In the book of Revelation, she dons a crown of 12 stars. Just like the North Star, Mary guides our path to freedom from sin. Celebrate Mary’s intervention with an airy star speckled dress or a galactic hoodie. This versatile print pulls its weight, from day to night. Star speckled sleep wear, blazers, sweatshirts and button downs are great for men and women alike. For a refined look, choose a small pattern on a midnight colored background.

5. Florals

Florals

“Notice how the flowers grow. They do not toil or spin. But I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of them.” (Luke 12:27)

Guys, don’t scroll by! Florals are for everyone. Flower prints are a great way to celebrate the beauty of God’s creation. We love lush floral print blazers, zip up jackets, and slim fit button downs for men. Choose a large, bold pattern on a dark, neutral background for a sophisticated look. Ladies, branch out from typical floral dresses and take a flirty romper for a spin. A flowing chiffon cardigan is another way to make your outfit pop with vibrant blossoms.

6. Rainbows

Rainbows

“When the [rain]bow is in the cloud, then I will look upon it, to remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is on the earth.” (Genesis 9:16)

Neutrals have been all the rage in the home design sphere, so it’s only natural that the fashion world is booming with color. Bold primary colors and striped rainbow prints are gracing the runways this season. In a nod to God’s covenant with humankind, try a rainbow hoodie or a bright pair of sneaks. If Crayola colors aren’t your thing, opt for a muted version with a 1970s flair.

7. Feathers

Feathers

“Keep me as the apple of the eye; Hide me in the shadow of Your wings.” (Psalm 17:8)

Feathers appear in scripture as a symbol of hope, and as a description of ethereal heaven-dwelling creatures like angels and seraphim. Dress up a blouse with a detachable feather hem or pin a feather to your lapel to elevate your formal wear. If the idea of caring for feathered garments gives you shivers, I don’t blame you. Opt for a feather print instead. You can find one on everything from tanks and tops to shorts and shoes.

Sources: Marie Claire, Elle, GQ, Esquire, BibleGateway