The Raw Edge: How To Wear It

Not just for the fash pack, this is how you should be wearing the raw edge this summer

Last year the raw edge was a hit on the catwalks and now it's all over the high street and has become THE must-have finish. Despite season after season of the clean silhouette, now it's all about the raw finish. Whether it's denim, linen or cotton, the raw edge is the style of the summer. Designers such as Marques Almeida and Rachel Comey live by this look, executed so well in their SS15 collections, and now it's on the high street, with some of our favourite stores presenting us with the best frayed edges around. You don't have to spend bucketloads to nail this style, so here's how to do it…

Double Raw

Nothing says a raw edge like taking it to the extreme. This season especially we've seen the fash pack wearing head-to-toe raw-edge denim, so don't be shy – layer up those raw edges. This Marques Almeida top and jeans duo is amazing. If you need a coat to go with it, Monki has a below-the-knee white denim coat with frayed detailing that will keep you warm on cool summer evenings. If you don't want to do double denim, team these jeans with a raw edge chiffon piece. 

Top and jeans, Marques Almeida

Evening Raw 

Wearing a raw edge in the evening is not, we repeat, is not a fashion faux pas. Yes, it will give your outfit a casual feel, but it can look extremely elegant – just take a look at this Rachel Comey number. If you are going to go for denim – choose a very dark denim or a white denim, as this will look more luxe and make you feel a little dressier. Here at the Marie Claire office we are also loving the culotte, as it's an easy way to dress up an outfit, so why not try a raw-edge culotte to be bang on trend? Rachel Comey does culottes or, for a high-street alternative, try Silence and Noise at Urban Outfitters. Pair denim culottes with something lightweight or even an embellished top and finish with a statement heel or clog to make it have a ladylike evening look.

Top and skirt, Rachel Comey

A Touch Of Raw

If you're not sure if raw edge is your thing, then why not introduce it slowly to update your summer look? Accessories are the way forward. Whether it be a small pouch bag, we found a great one at Whistles, or a belt or beach bag, the raw edge creates a real effortless feel without looking messy. This Rachel Comey bag is the perfect way of introducing the raw edge look to your wardrobe slowly but surely!