The 10 Big Fashion Trends That Are Currently Defining Our Summer

The return of the miniskirt brings some of our favorite flirty summer outfits yet. Whether it's a pleated skater skirt (or tennis skirt) you're after, something vibrantly printed and bodyconscious, or a tailored mini that's part of a set, allow your legs some vitamin D.

Los Angeles Apparel Tennis Skirt ($50)

Djerf Avenue Popsicle Skirt ($99)

Forever a popular print in the spring and summer — during the months we like to be reminded of picnic blankets — gingham is a mood booster. This year, you have every reason to wear it from head to toe and go all out in a monochrome set.

Wray Josephine Dress in Parrot Check ($288)

H.O.W. We Are Adorbs Mini Yellow Gingham ($78)

All hail the return of the crop top! The It tee of the summer certainly bares some skin. If you like to reach for something supertrendy, go for a style with corseting or wire at the chest and wraparound straps, then wear it with a loose trouser. Alternatively, you can go the romantic route with pouf sleeves or keep it sleek and sporty in a muscle tank with cutouts.

Jacquemus Le T-Shirt Baci in Ecru ($210)

Cult Gaia Gail Top ($378)

Classic ribbed polo knits are better than your simple crewneck tee, simply because they lend your look a retro appeal, if only up top.

ASOS 4505 Curve Polo Bodysuit ($23)

Goldie Slub + Jersey Polo Tee ($125)

Relax, you can still wear the sandals you invested in and let your toes breathe. But one of the biggest shoe trends of 2021 is the loafer or lug sole brogue, and it's proving it has staying power in the summer, too. Where you'd normally reach for sneakers or something strappy, try drawing attention downward with a classic heeled loafer and sock combination. Minidresses and cropped pants or shorts are your perfect complement.

Zara Low Heel Lug Sole Loafers ($60)

Molly & Reese x Nomasei Nono Mocassin ($410)

While 2021's summer dresses have details that run the gamut from smocked bodices to pouf sleeves, there's one consistent look you'll see again and again: oversize. This loose-fitting, unstructured silhouette makes for the perfect nap dress.

Faithfull The Brand Romilla Midi Dress in Plain White ($329)

Studio Cut Oversize Jacquard Dress ($310)

In keeping with the camp theme carried over from 2020, we're layering quirky, kitschy beaded necklaces and keeping them on with our beachwear. Even though you might not have strung these charms together yourself, they do showcase your personality, so choose your baubles wisely.

Missoma Short Beaded Gemstone Necklace ($180)

Notte Jewelry Super Bloom Candy Pearl Necklace ($132)

Isa Noy Mini Semi Precious Strands ($450)

A pant trend? For summer? OK, that's actually pretty groundbreaking. Loose, live-in cargos with exposed pockets are offered in lightweight fabrics like linen and nylon for partnering with those cropped halters and tube tops from the early aughts. We can feel Gwen Stefani's pride from here.

Sundarbay Nude Vegan Leather Pocket Pants ($194)

ASOS Design Curve Pleat Front Chino With Cargo Pockets in Sage ($40)

Whether you prefer to work your statement piece into your hair or fold it and tie it around your neck, you must secure a standout pattern that's in keeping with the tone of your wardrobe. Blame it on Olivia Rodrigo, who wears a silk printed head scarf around her head for the Sour album art (containing all of our anthems for the summer).

The Kelly by Manner Market ($55)

Zara Floral Silk Scarf ($46)

A halter silhouette definitely takes us back to the '90s, whether in dress or top form, and it allows for a major shoulder-baring moment if that's your vibe. While you can opt for thicker fabrics, we're also seeing plenty of floss style halter tops that are great for minimalists.

Intimately 100 Ways Convertible Bralette ($48)

Amalfii Boa Vista Crochet Top ($35)