It can be tricky to know which fashion trends to jump on board with. Some are here and gone before you know it (tiny sunglasses); others stick around for years (skinny jeans) or keep coming back again and again (leopard print). Which is why we believe in having fun with them. You don’t have to embrace every single micro trend, and you should absolutely put your own spin on the ones you do.
To help you figure out which ones are worthwhile, here are the summer fashion trends we’re most into right now — and suggestions for the clothing and accessories to pull them off, however you see fit.
1. Leopard Midi Skirts
We have Réalisation Par to thank for the trend of the summer. Last year it seemed every influencer was wearing the French brand’s silky leopard midi skirt. Now the look is everywhere (it even has its own Instagram), with many designers creating their own interpretations of it. The calf-length skirt feels like a fresh way to wear the classic print — and it goes with everything from a white tee and sneakers to a strappy top and heels.
Try It:
The Fifth Label Leopard Midi Skirt ($78)
C/MEO Collective Polarised Skirt ($150)
2. Neons
Even if you aren’t quite ready to don head-to-toe fluorescents like Ashley Graham or Hailey Bieber, you can still participate in this eye-catching summer trend. Try adding a pop of neon to an otherwise neutral outfit — a highlighter-yellow tee with white denim, shocking pink accessories with your favorite basics or an electric accent with an all-black ensemble.
Try It:
LNA Cape Tank ($81)
Onzie Hyper Beam Midi Legging ($78)
3. Basket Bags
Once just for beach days and trips to the farmers market, woven bags have become the go-to arm candy of urban dwellers and fashion Instagrammers alike. And for good reason: They’re versatile, laid back and can be worn with all kinds of summer clothing, from sundresses to embroidered denim. Channel your inner Jane Birkin with a straw tote or round rattan cross-body.
Try It:
Indego Africa Palm Tote ($125)
Bembien Rose Round Woven Bag ($185)
4. Tie-Dye
Tie-dye is back in a big way this summer — the summer fashion trend is showing up on everything from slip dresses to tailored suits to jeans. If you don’t want to go full-on Woodstock, skip the Crayola brights and try the psychedelic pattern in muted or neutral colors.
Try It:
LACAUSA Alma Slip Dress ($80)
NSF Clothing Brooke Crewneck Sweatshirt ($225)
5. Bike Shorts
Bike shorts may seem like the antithesis of style, but much like shower sandals and fanny packs, they’ve become a fashion-girl staple. Take style notes from influencers like Sophia Roe and Maria Bernad and wear your spandex with a fitted blazer or oversized button-down to keep from looking too sporty.
Try It:
Year Of Ours Ribbed Biker Short ($72)
Onzie High Rise Bike Short ($56)
6. Puffy Sleeves
Anne of Green Gables was ahead of her time: Puffy sleeves are having a moment. Lean into the princess-y romanticism of this summer fashion trend by combining voluminous sleeves with a feminine print and style.
Try It:
Petersyn Lourdes Dress ($295)
Petersyn Batista Top ($310)
7. Shell Jewelry
As with tie-dye, this isn’t the shell jewelry of your youth. The 2019 version is less beachy souvenir, more delicate statement piece. And while sea-inspired jewelry pairs perfectly with summer clothing, it’s now being worn year round, so get started on your shell collection now.
Try It:
Jennifer Behr Marina Earring ($195)
Tai Jewelry Cowrie Shell Necklace ($88)