How to Shop the Dolphin Girl Summer Aesthetic
The "Dolphin Girl" Aesthetic Might Replace Your Sardine Obsession This Summer
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With the June 20 solstice having officially ushered us into summer (and a heat wave), the effervescent energy of the season is stronger than ever. Trips to the beach are becoming a weekly routine, cafes with pools have become the new work-from-home office, and spontaneous road trips define the weekends. Whether you're sartorially obsessed or not, a quality wardrobe is essential for these warm-weather escapades, and there are plenty of trends to inspire your looks. We're talking the fisherman aesthetic, jorts, and labubu craze. The latest fad to join the conversation? Dolphins. Yes, you read that correctly. The aquatic mammal has become more than a sight to see at our favorite tropical destination — it's a lifestyle.
What Is the Dolphin Girl Summer Aesthetic?
The first thing to know about the dolphin girl summer aesthetic? It's carefree and boundless, although it centers around the sea animal. Dolphins are known for their athleticism, charm, and smooth skin, and those same qualities define this trend. It can be interpreted in various ways, including pops of blue across bikinis and playful dresses, as well as beauty fads like aura nails, beach waves, and regular exfoliation for sleek, dolphin-like skin. For further clarity, consider the low-effort hairstyles from "H2O: Just Add Water" (Rikki Chadwick's braids, in particular) or even Aquamarine's playful minidresses and beachy waves when she frolicked on land in her namesake film.
@h3ll0k1ttyy69 rikkis necklace!!!!!! #h20 #cleosertori
♬ No Ordinary Girl - Theme - H2O: Just Add Water
Celebrities have also displayed major "dolphin girl" energy as of late, from Hailey Bieber's embrace of hoodies and bikinis to Doechii's glamorous looks that incorporate glittery blue eyeshadow. With approval from the stars (and TikTok), it was only right that we curated a guide to help you navigate the trend. Whether you've gotten a sudden surge of Y2K nostalgia or you're shopping for your next vacation, keep scrolling to shop our favorite dolphin girl summer picks.
Looking for something specific? Browse through our categories for easier shopping:
A Dolphin Tank Top
Noisy May Tank Top ($18, originally $22)
Nothing says "dolphin girl summer" quite like a cropped tank with dolphins. This top's scoop neck and racerback fit make it the most effortless find to nail the trend. Not to mention, its rhinestone-embellished dolphins are peak Y2K.
Flip Flops
Havaianas Brazil Flip-Flops ($26)
Are you really a dolphin girl if you don't own a pair of flip flops? This top-rated find from Havaianas features classic design elements of the staple summer shoe, including its easy slip-on style, textured thong straps, and striped midsole. It even features a Brazilian flag accent and comes in other colors, such as burgundy, making it versatile for all your summer outings.
A Halter Top
Silence + Noise Coyote Cowl Neck Halter Top ($29)
When it comes to summer dressing, you can never go wrong with a halter top. It's chic enough to be worn with a flirty miniskirt and heels for a night out and chill enough to rock with a pair of shorts and slides for daywear. This top from Silence + Noise exudes just that and more, thanks to its plunging neckline, cowl draping on the bust, and V-hem bodice.
A Pair of Jorts
BDG Urban Outfitters Harden High Waist Denim Shorts ($29, originally $49)
While jorts may seem like a "new thing," the dominating trend was highly popular in the early aughts, even amongst dolphin girls. This versatile pair from BDG can go with any outfit, from a bikini and flip flops to a jersey and kitten heels.
A Beach Tote
South Beach Straw Tote Bag ($32)
On the hunt for a bag that stores all your poolside essentials without compromising style? Look no further than this vibrant pick from South Beach. Thanks to its stripe design and sturdy straw fabric, it's the ideal style-meets-function accessory for summer.
Sunglasses
Aire Ursa Sunglasses ($39)
A great pair of shades is always in order, especially if you want to tap into this trend. These Aire bestsellers add the quintessential beach vibe to all of your looks, thanks to the rimless design.
A Crochet Hat
Mango Natural Fiber Gradient Hat ($40, originally $60)
The ultimate beach accessory? A crochet hat. Made with natural fiber fabric, this ombré piece from Mango is equal parts breathable and chic. It also comes in a red and orange gradient for versatile styling.
A Bikini
Goldie Swimwear Lou Triangle Top ($68)
Another must have to become a "dolphin girl" this season? A bikini. This striped pick from Goldie Swimwear serves as a whimsical twist to the classic triangle bikini. It features eyelet lace trim, white strings, and signature beading at the tie-ends, making it the perfect summer swimsuit. You can also pair it with its matching Bea Skimpy Bottom ($65) for the ultimate vibe.
A Beaded Necklace
ALV Sunshine Beaded Necklace ($80)
The "H2O" mermaids were hardly seen without necklaces, telling us that they're a staple of the "dolphin girl" trend. While we can't find the exact ones they wore, this beaded piece, adorned with an oversize sun charm, fits the bill perfectly.
A Minidress
Monday Swimwear Taormina Dress ($158)
Whether you're taking notes from Cleo Sertori from "H2O" or just on the hunt for that perfect summer mini, consider this playful pick from Monday Swimwear. Made with high-quality, comfortable lurex-blend fabric, you can easily rock this dress during the day, poolside, or for dinner at the resort.
A Body Oil
Vaseline Intensive Care Body Gel Oil ($7, originally $8)
Body oils are all the rage lately, and this pick from Vaseline is the perfect way to get "dolphin skin." Made with pure cocoa butter and microdroplets of the brand's signature jelly, you'll never be caught looking ashy this season. This oil is also a great choice for combating dryness after the beach without leaving a greasy film on your skin.
Lip Balm
Supergoop Glow Gloss SPF 40 Lip Balm ($22)
This recent launch from Supergoop not only gives your lips coveted shine but also protects them from sun damage using ingredients such as shea butter and jojoba seed oil. It even comes in three flavors: strawberry spritz, pink peppermint, and vanilla soft serve — all ideal for relaxing beachside.
Facial Spray
Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray ($28)
This cult-favorite facial spray not only soothes and purifies the skin, but also defends it against unwanted bacteria through nourishing ingredients like hypochlorous acid. Even Hailey Bieber uses it, showing that it's a no-brainer purchase.
A Hybrid Fragrance Mist
Phlur Beach Skin Body & Hair Fragrance Mist ($38)
It can be a bit tricky to find a summer fragrance that actually lasts through heat and humidity, and this Phlur body and hair mist is powerful enough to do just that. Formulated with notes of bergamot, salted tiare flower, and sandalwood, this scent is the perfect way to keep you smelling fresh all day long.
Sunscreen
Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Face and Body Lotion Sunscreen ($50)
A great sunscreen is a summer must have, especially for the "dolphin girl." This invisible, broad-spectrum SPF 60+ sunscreen works for both the face and body, featuring ingredients such as green tea and rose apple leaf extracts that help address dark spots, reduce wrinkles, and combat dryness.
Naomi Parris is the assistant shopping editor at PS, based in New York. With over eight years of experience and previous roles held on the brand's Beauty and Operations teams, she enjoys telling stories that merge fashion, beauty, and Black culture. Naomi has also lent her skillful pen to Essence Girls United, Elle, Bustle, and Elite Daily. When she's not crafting shopping roundups, high-profile features, beauty op-eds, or trend guides, you can find Naomi behind her blog "Eli-Nay," where she inspires readers through style guides, cultural pieces, and innovative content on her Instagram.
