Biannual Fashion and Beauty Trend Report

Spring / Summer Trends in Australia & New Zealand

Welcome to the Australia & New Zealand section of the Global Trend Report, where we take a closer look at what customers are shopping for this Spring / Summer

Who is the Australian / New Zealand Afterpay Customer?

At 3.3 million strong, Australians and Kiwis are the most active shoppers within Afterpay’s global audience. In fact, early adopters who joined between 2015-2017 shop an impressive 25 times a year.

What cities are they shopping from?

Melbourne
Sydney
Brisbane
Perth
Adelaide

How are they shopping?

Their average age is mid-thirties (35 years to be exact), they prefer to shop around lunchtime, and they have an affinity for activewear.

Most surprising perhaps, is that only 78% shop from a mobile device (compared to 84% in the US and 93% in the UK), and when they shop for fashion they buy more at checkout, five items on average (compared to four items in the US and three items in the UK).

What’s hot for spring?

As Aussies enter the warmer months, florals are blooming not only in nature but also in popularity. From frolicking dresses to must-have accessories, floral prints are leading this season’s fashion trends. With Covid-19 keeping us inside during the colder months, it’s no wonder we’re looking outside to nature for our fashion inspo. And isolation has also made us embrace our casual, laidback lewks, with loungewear becoming en vogue this year.

This relaxed style-set will rollover into the new season, as silky soft shorts, comfy T-shirts and even cool cardigans (no they’re not just for your granny!) top the ‘what’s hot’ list. It’s set to be a season of blossoming prints mixed with effortless chic, driven both by the Aussie sunshine and societal changes.

The Top 3 Prints

Looking to make a statement this season? Thanks to a mighty powerhouse influence – anyone heard of Queen Bey? – the much-misunderstood cow print is seeing a resurgence. From bucket bag accessories to maxi dresses, the print is set to stand apart from the ever-popular leopard print this S/S season.

The Top 3 Hues

Blues and oranges are colours that vibe creativity, attraction and energy. As the weather warms up, this season ANZ shoppers are ready to shake off the lockdown shackles and get out there into the world - still balanced by the lofty cool stylings of muted greys, of course.

The Hottest Brands & Retailers

Beauty, fitness and casual fashion are holding strong for UK shoppers. Below is a snapshot on which brands hold top spots with Clearpay users this Autumn.

The IT List

No surprises that home self-care items and laid-back pieces are currently topping the it-list for Aussie shoppers.

View all
01

Foundation Face Mask

02

Logo Cotton Crew Tee, by Assembly Label

03

The Uncomplicated Cleanser 100ml

04

Lotus Ankle Biter Leggings

05

Lifestyle Seamless Longline Vestlette

06

Logo Fleece Sweater, by Assembly Label

07

Jordan Air Jordan 1 Low

08

To Save Face SPF50+ Superscreen

09

Better Than Sex Mascara

10

My Perfect Facial

Style By City

We’re seeing a sense of playful 90s nostalgia in our regional style list with pleated skirts, rompers, and oversized shirts staking a claim in Aussie wardrobes. According to Afterpay’s consumer psychologist, Shakaila Forbes-Bell, when things get a little uncertain shoppers love to look back on better times, and what better times are there than the era that gave us Clueless? Hoop earrings are also essential for looking fab in those back-to-back Zooms, and rings seem to be the perfect complement to an at-home mani.

Oversized Shirt

Adelaide

The Bag Update

From packing everything you need for a summer road-trip in a duffle, to a cute pouch for a first date. This year’s trending bags show that variety is key!

Bag

Aussies are investing more in bags and considering its resale value

Duffle

Perfect for the increasing amount of staycations and long weekends Aussies are taking

Wallet Bag

Only essentials are being carried right now including mask, keys, wallet and phone

The Accessories Update

Bucket hats were met with a dividing critique when they surged in popularity in 2019 and this is set to continue as they top this year’s trending accessories. We’re all here for the statement look, and if you want to get ahead of the curve then chic headwear is set to turn heads this summer.

Bucket Hat
Ring
Bangle
Sunnies
Headwear

TOP SILHOUETTES:

Dresses

We’re embracing comfort this summer with flowy and relaxed dresses dominating the dress trends. If you’re looking for something a little more glam, ruched dresses are in.

Flounce
Hoodie
Smocked
Ruched
T-Shirt

TOP SILHOUETTES:

Footwear

Relaxed-wear is certainly a trend for 2021, and this extends to our footwear as the top silhouettes include casual clogs, simple slides and go-to sandals. Now all you need is the perfect swimwear and you’re ready for the beach!

Slides
Sneakers
Sandals
Slingback
Clogs

TOP SILHOUETTES:

Swimwear

This summer, we’re mixing it up with long-sleeved swimwear for both style and sun protection while also showing off our bodies in brazilian bikinis.

Long Sleeve Swimsuit
Floral Bikini
Frill Bikini
Thong Bikini
Brazillian Bikini

What's Next?