Summer Styles

Summer is almost here and I’m SO ready for it! Time to break out those old summer clothes and embrace the warm weather! This summer is especially exciting because, unlike last summer, we can finally be out and about, enjoying the sunny days and showing off our summer styles. Not much in terms of fashion has changed from last summer, but there are definitely a few new trends you should look for! Here’s a list of 9 unique styles trending for this summer!

Note: All images taken directly from Pinterest. None of them (except the cover beach picture) are mine.

1. Neutrals!

Neutral colors obviously aren’t new, but they’re making quite the appearance! While I prefer greens and blues to browns, I do appreciate white and black and how easy it is to mix and match these colors! And don’t feel limited to just the standard neutrals; go all out with beige, ivory, gray, mocha, charcoal, really any color that doesn’t have any undertones! Look for items that looked almost dull or washed-out (this isn’t a bad thing!) to pair with statement accessories that will make you pop! You can pretty much find neutrals anywhere you buy your clothes, and be sure to check out new neutral sections at your fave shops!

Tip: I like to look for neutrals that work well with other neutrals or other items in my closet. I depend on mixing and matching, and if you’re the same, assess your closet, then decide what kind of neutrals you might want. Another tip? Have fun with it! Neutrals go with pretty much anything and everything, so you can really go wild with your choices!

2. Colorful trousers

No, I don’t mean middle-aged-man work pants! I’m talking about the loose straight-leg pants that look stunning with a crop top or form-fitting shirt. Personally, they’re not my style (or maybe they are but I just don’t think I can pull it off). Either way, these pants look great and probably feel even greater with their flowy style. Don’t think you can pull it off either? Try a high-waisted pair with a short shirt or tank top! I’m seriously not kidding when I say they make your legs look loooong! Choose from colorful pastels that look gorgeous white tops or stay neutral with beige or khaki! You can find these pants at places like Motel Rock, Paradox, and PrettyLittleThing. Also, check your local thrift store! Even men’s trousers can look awesome altered, and you won’t have to spend a fortune on this summer trend!

Tip: It is summer, so don’t waste your time looking for thick pants. Many stores sell trousers assuming you’ll be working in them at an office (boring!) so be sure to look for light and airy ones that are made for summer fashion. Unless, of course, you live in Alaska or something :) Obviously, you do you, but it is just something to keep in mind.

3. Three-piece bikinis

If you’ve been on Tik Tok at all this spring, you’ve probably noticed that these types of bikinis have become increasingly popular. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, they’re basically bikini sets that come with a top and bottom of course, along with a matching skirt or beach cover-up. Not only are these sets stylish, but they’re also functional when you need to cover up or give your skin a break from the sun! Most of the photos I found on Pinterest are pretty showy, but there are plenty of sets out there that are more PG and more cover-upy than others! For example, you find matching terry cloth shorts for your bikini from PacSun! Find similar items at Buy a Dream, Glambear, and tons on Shein or Romwe (although I don’t recommend shopping there).

Tip: Lots of stores that sell/specialize in bikinis actually also sell matching prints in shorts and tops. These items are rarely placed in the bikini section, so make sure you check other clothing categories if you are interested in matching your suit!

4. Everything beads!

With many people embracing the comeback of Y2K fashion, colorful beads have made quite the appearance in jewelry, rings, phone charms, and more! If you want accessories that are unique and colorful, beaded necklace stacks and wire-wrap stone rings are definitely the way to go! Play around with different bead types and textures, pearls, chunky charms, and seed beads to create a look that is sure to stand out. Release your inner child with nature-inspired looks or bright plastic pony beads that you can match with split chains, metal charms, and sparkly clasps. This type of jewelry is a must this summer for those of you who are die-hard indie or 2000s aesthetic fans, and it can be super fun to experiment with different colors and styles. You can find these necklaces at Urban Outfitters, PacSun, Amazon, and Etsy! And don’t forget about phone charms and rings! These unique trends can be found all over Etsy (which I HIGHLY recommend because you’ll support a small business and get tons of other perks) or you can easily make your own by hitting up your local craft store.

Tip: If you are looking for this type of jewelry to last, I don’t recommend pony beads or any other beads that have been painted on. Painted beads typically rub off and lose tarnishing easily, especially if you are sweating (it is summer, after all!). For more durable styles, just pay attention to the material of both the string, beads, and chain. Personally, I prefer jewelry that lasts through the summer at least, so just be aware that this type of jewelry isn’t always the best quality!

5. Floral

Floral always seems to be in style, and this summer is no exception! Not your grandma’s curtains type of floral (except if that’s what you’re into, you never know!) but dainty patterns on tops, dresses, and skirts. Get all cute and fancy with ruffles and floral outfits so you can be one-with-summer. These patterns also go great with neutrals, denim, and some of the jewelry trends I’ve mentioned in this list. Plus, you can’t get any more spring/summer than flowers, so why not wear them? Keep it casual with flower printed shorts and shirts from Forever 21, Abercrombie, American Eagle, and Target, or dress to impress with skirts and mini dresses from Hollister, PacSun, Aeropostale, and Old Navy! I think this is the perfect style to dress up or down, and to put your own spin on by adding layers and accessories.

Tip: You can make super easy skirts from floral fabric at your local craft store! Another thing to keep in mind is how see through the material is. I know a lot of the material used to make these patterns are pretty thin, so be sure you know how see-through it might be.

6. Open-back tops

Open-back tops are all the rage this summer because of how good they look AND feel on a hot sunny day. These tops take the form of scarves, corsets, and scrunched fabric, and they are perfect because they cover just enough in the front while giving you the effortlessly detailed ties in the back. I love this style because you can keep it ultra-casual by wearing tie tanks or beachy ruffle long sleeves, or you can make it dressy with scarves and corsets. Whatever your style, these types of tops are great for summer (just make sure you wear sunscreen!) You can find them at places like Princess Polly, Misguided, Adika, and Beginning Boutique. Or, you can try making simple versions on your own by finding patterns off of Pinterest, or craft stores and websites!!

Tip: Look for ones with pads or built in bras! Otherwise, you might struggle with hiding it. However, there are tutorials out there, especially for scarf tops, where you can learn how to wear it and hide your bra at the same time.

7. Corset tops

I mentioned these tops a little before, but I thought they deserved their own category! Corset tops are weirdly in style, and I’m kinda here for it! There are a ton of different types of corset tops, with some being real satin corsets (steel whale bones and everything!) to more simple corset looking tank tops perfect for everyday wear. For some reasons, these tops look so good on anyone that wears them! You would think a style from the 1800s wouldn’t be popular among a generation that prefers a less constrictive lifestyle, but Gen Z-ers have made corsets their own and transformed how we see them! You can go for a vintage look with gorgeous patterned ones that lace in the front or back, or you can go for a modern look that takes only the lacing, bust details, or even just the shape of the corset and turns the ancient fashion piece into leather or mesh tops that are sure to impress. You can pretty much find these enchanting tops anywhere including Princess Polly, Glambear, PacSun, Misguided, White Fox Boutique, and many more. Or make your own!

Tip: Definitely check out vintage shops (if that’s a thing or if you have them), antique stores, or thrift stores! Vintage corset tops can be super expensive but you can probably find used ones for a lot less!

8. “Hardware” jewelry

Finally a trend I can get behind! While I do love most of the styles in this list, I’m not really the type of person to wear them. My own style is more subtle and definitely casual so even though I wish I had the confidence to rock a corset top or colorful trousers, I continue to rely on jewelry to spice up my outfits. “Hardware” is the name I’ve given to jewelry that uses textured chain, bulky toggles and clasps, carabiners, and lock and key charms. This type of jewelry differs from dainty necklaces in that it often features high catching metals and chunky details. Not only do they add pizazz to any look, but they can also be layered with more dainty styles or added to beaded or pearl designs. I love how you can wear them casually or for more special occasions too! Another trending part of this type of jewelry are unique charmed necklaces, especially female figures or vintage/antique pendants and lockets. And don’t forget about herringbone, or snake chain necklaces that add a dash of elegance to any item of clothing! You really can’t go wrong with hardware jewelry; there are so many different options that it’s a style that’s sure to please everyone! Like most things in this list, you can find this type of jewelry virtually anywhere. I’ve seen some great stacks at Urban Outfitters, Forever 21, and PacSun, but there are also a myriad of selections on Etsy!

Tip: When it comes to jewelry, check the metals before buying! Stainless steel won’t tarnish, and gold-plated stainless steel is slow-tarnish meaning if you take good care if it, it will take a long time to turn colors. When buying hardware jewelry especially, the metal type may differ so just make sure you know what you're getting before buying.

9. Matching sets

This is similar to the 3 piece bikinis/swimsuits I talked about, but you don’t have to be waterside to take part in this trend! Matching sets are so in because one, they look cute, and two, you can really play around with the style and level of formality. Take your pick from matching tanks and skirts, coordinating t-shirts and shorts, or even identical jackets and bralettes. This trend really gives you a lot of room to express yourself, and it makes it easy to find matching outfit for those of you that struggle to put cute items together! Dress casual with a beach-inspired crop top and flowy shorts, or stay stylish with a blazer and matching bralette/tank top. You can find tons of matching sets at places like Lulus, Princess Polly, Nasty Gal, PacSun, and ShowPo, just to name a few.

Tip: You don’t have to find an actual set to get matching clothes; most stores sell a variety of items in the same patterns and styles, especially for active-wear. It doesn’t even have to be identical; you can find coordinating colors (neutrals!) or patterns that go well together if you know what you’re looking for. Since many stores focus on one specific style, it isn’t hard to find matching items!