How to Wear Summer's Most Affordable Trends Like a Fashion Editor

POPSUGAR Photography | Maria del Rio
POPSUGAR Photography | Maria del Rio
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Whether your Summer shopping decisions are inspired by the top trends of the season, an upcoming vacation, or maybe even your zodiac sign, affordable pieces are one of the best ways to get your wardrobe feeling fresh and fashion forward. Yes, we love designer indulgences, but when you want to stock up on as many essentials as you can — maxi dresses, striped tops, fun shorts, breathable pants, and comfortable Summer workwear pieces are at the top of my list — affordability is key.

Of course, swimwear, sunglasses, and comfortable sandals are crucial buys for Summer, but when it comes to trying out new clothing trends for the season like this year's ultrafeminine details from puffy sleeves to bows and ruffles, elongated midi and maxi hemlines, and vibrant colors, well, sometimes it's easier to start with well-priced pieces. And guess where you can find all of these trends? In the new POPSUGAR collection at Kohl's.

Ahead, discover seven Summer trends you can shop for $48 or less, plus styling tips for how to wear each one like a fashion editor.

Summer Trend: Ultrafeminine Detailing
kohls.com

Summer Trend: Ultrafeminine Detailing

"A cute and affordable top like this POPSUGAR Smocked Tank Top ($27, originally $36) will be my wardrobe workhorse this Summer. I'll layer it over a t-shirt and pair with jeans for a casual Friday at the office or wear on its own with cutoff shorts and sandals on the weekends. The sweet ties and smocked detailing hit on Summer's ultrafeminine trend, plus it looks infinitely more expensive than all the simple tanks currently hanging in my closet." — Hannah Weil McKinley, director, Fashion and Shop

Summer Trend: Elongated Hemline
kohls.com

Summer Trend: Elongated Hemline

"This POPSUGAR Textured Button Front Skirt ($45, originally $60) is such a flattering length, and the light pinstripe makes it perfect for Summer. I'll be packing this for warm-weather weekend trips and pair it with tees and leather slides." — Dana Avidan Cohn, executive style director

Summer Trend: Ultrafeminine Detailing and Elongated Hemline
kohls.com

Summer Trend: Ultrafeminine Detailing and Elongated Hemline

"When packing for vacation in Paris, I decided to include this POPSUGAR Belted Maxi Dress ($48, originally $64) in my suitcase, and let me tell you, it's the best dress for Summer, but especially for travel. Hitting two trends in one (ultrafeminine detailing and an elongated hemline), it feels super fresh in warm weather. Even better is that it can be worn for day or night with a simple swap of accessories, saving space in your suitcase. Such a win!" — Laura Lajiness, senior editor, Fashion

Summer Trend: Vibrant Colors
kohls.com

Summer Trend: Vibrant Colors

"I'm particularly interested in fine-tuning my Pride wardrobe for the month of June, and this POPSUGAR Relaxed Muscle Tank Top ($19, originally $26) fits the bill while hitting on Summer's vibrant color trend. Picture me rocking it with a silk midi skirt and '90s minimalist heels. It's all about balancing the casual with the chic." — Sarah Wasilak, editor, Fashion

Summer Trend: Transparency
kohls.com

Summer Trend: Transparency

"I'm constantly on the lookout for a simple white top that's dressier than my favorite t-shirts, and this POPSUGAR Eyelet Tee ($33, originally $44) is my perfect Summer version. With sweet eyelets that show just a hint of skin (a subtler take on the see-through trend you've witnessed in PVC form), I'll be pairing it with culottes and sleek mules for a chic look." — Nikita Ramsinghani, associate editor, Fashion

Summer Trend: Summer Tailoring
kohls.com

Summer Trend: Summer Tailoring

"I love this POPSUGAR Printed Midi Dress ($48, originally $64) because I can easily take it from day to night. In a shirtdress silhouette, it touches on the Summer tailoring trend and looks cute with a denim jacket and sneakers or dressed up with heeled mules. Bonus points for the fact that it has pockets!" — Macy Williams, editor, Shopping & Must Have

Summer Trend: Cheeky Fashion
kohls.com

Summer Trend: Cheeky Fashion

"My most important Summer staple is always a white tee. Not only can I wear it with jeans, but it's also great for pairing with skirts and shorts and even layering with dresses. This year, I want to spice up my normal pick with this playful 'No Wifi' POPSUGAR Slouchy Graphic Tee ($19, originally $26). The rainbow detail and fun message have me in the mood for some serious sun." — Krista Jones, assistant editor, Shop