As the days get longer and the nights get warmer, we begin to swap our spring florals and pastels for our favorite summer style staples. Although I love a good denim skirt/tube top pairing as much as the next girl, half of the fun of summer fashion lies in experimentation. From highlighter hues to asymmetric cuts, this summer is the perfect time to try out some of fashion’s newest trends – some of which we have selected in our guide ahead.
1. Hair scarves
Regardless of the season, scarves have always been a go-to choice when it comes to turning an everyday outfit into a sophisticated, vibrant look. Silk scarves can be a stylish addition not only to your outfits, but to your hairstyles as well. These scarves can take the place of ribbons, headbands, even ponytail holders, and will help keep your hair out of your face during those hot summer months.
2. One-shoulder tops
From casual monochromatic tops to glitzy, glam dresses for a night out, the one shoulder is a refreshing new cut that can be worn so many different ways. This versatility in style makes it an easy piece to wear, however “out there” it may seem at first. Plus, the asymmetrical neckline is a simple way to add tons of dimension to your look.
3. Puff sleeves
Take one look at your favorite influencer’s Instagram and it’s quite likely that you’ll spot them experimenting with one of this summer’s biggest trends – puff sleeves. With a classic feminine shape, the puff sleeve trend helps create the perfect “princess off duty” look. Perfect for those summer trips to the countryside or just looking – and feeling – chic yet carefree, wherever you are, puff sleeves are slowly taking over the blogger world and they don’t show signs of stopping.
4. LWD (Little white dress)
While everyone goes for the iconic little black dress at night, it’s time to show love to the little white dress during those long summer days. Whether it be for a wedding, Sunday brunch or just an everyday street-style moment, the little white dress can be done so many different ways; the possibilities are endless. Spice it up with some funky boots like Bella Hadid or keep it simple with a neutral purse like Instagrammer Lauren Bushnell.
5. Slingback heels
The 2000s are officially back. As our obsession with 90s fashion merges into a newfound love for the quirky, distinctly different early-2000s, one of the era’s most iconic shoes – the slingback heel – is in for quite a comeback. Forever cemented into pop culture by their role in Sex and the City as Carrie Bradshaw’s iconic shoe of choice, these mini-heels are low-stress and high-reward, providing all of the heat, and none of the ankle-twisting, of a towering stiletto. They come in all shades and patterns, so whether you like a neutral black or a flamboyant fuchsia, slingbacks have you covered.
6. Tie-dye
Every summer has its stand out pattern, and this year’s seems to be the bright-colored, hippie-chic tie-dye. Fashion-forward stars such as Justin Bieber and Gigi Hadid have already embraced the DIY pattern, and labels ranging from Topshop to Prada have also chosen to incorporate the psychedelic print in their summer ranges. Although commonly associated with the 1960s and childhood summers spent at sleepaway camp, when done right, tie-dye can be an eye-popping addition to any summer look.
7. Bike shorts
When they first made an appearance last year, bike shorts caused quite the stir in the fashion community, as social media influencers and models across the world began to style these modified leggings with everything from blazers to bodysuits. Although their initial debut had many calling them “tacky” and a “fleeting” fashion moment, these bold shorts have proven to be a lasting, even versatile trend. From classic black to a daring pair of cheetah print, there are so many ways to try this trend – all it takes is the confidence to own it!
8. Knit/crochet tops
Even though the weather is starting to heat up, that doesn’t mean you have to put away your knit and crochet tops. These tank tops are an elevated version of a 70s classic and bring a subtle touch of nostalgia to your wardrobe. With their straight-cut lines and comfortable material, knit tank tops can be paired with almost any bottom, from trendy skirts to loose fitting trousers, to create an effortlessly chic and comfy summer outfit.
9. 2000s tank tops
As noted before, 2000s are very much back and so are these simple, yet iconic tops. Paired with a retro skirt or even some plain denim, these baby tanks are once again becoming a summer staple. Whether it be Paris Hilton-esque bedazzled vintage or a simple heart embroidered across a white top, these tanks will no doubt be all over Instagram and the streets this upcoming summer.
10. Tinted sunglasses
If 2018 was the year of tiny glasses, 2019 ushered in a new era of creative eyewear. For this summer, tinted sunglasses are an accessory on the rise with brands from Gucci to Ray-Ban putting out their own versions of the trend, often worn by supermodels such as Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid. These glasses add a quirky, colorful touch to any look and protect your eyes from the sun better than those tiny glasses ever could.