While many consider the transition-weather weeks as one of the trickiest time of year to get dressed, I’m beginning to think that summer may be the real season that takes the cake. Not only are you figuring out exactly what trends to take on for the hottest months of the year, but also how to incorporate them into your ensembles in a way that feels chic, practical, and—perhaps most importantly—comfortable.
All that said, I’ll also make the sweeping statement that this is the best season to get dressed. Sure, it may be 100 degrees with humidity on some days, but with the freedom of days (mostly) filled with sunshine, along with the carefree attitude that comes with the season and any vacations you have in the books, summer 2025’s best fashion trends will encourage you to play with your personal style—and what’s more seasonal than that? From eye-catching prints and flouncy skirts to a continuation of fashion’s hottest trends of the year, there’s no doubt you’ll be dressed the part. Scroll on for the need-to-know trends to sport all summer long.
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Summer Plaids
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I know, I know—gingham is the unofficial print of the season, but hear me out: Opting for a warm-weather plaid will give your wardrobe an unexpected edge of cool. It doesn’t have to feel grungy, either. Our team spotted iterations of the print on the runways of Tommy Hilfiger, Miu Miu, and Kallmeyer, to name a few, proving that this print can be as preppy, cool, or sophisticated as you make it.
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Fenced Plaid Sheer Panel Midi-Dress, $662, Vince.
Ford Plaid Funnel Neck Plissé Top, $87, Lioness.
Printed Tulle Skirt, $46, Zara.
Flouncy Skirts
Twirl girls, prepare for the return of the flounce hemline. Bias-cut circle skirts that swayed with every step were present on the runways of Chanel and Alaïa, so there’s no doubt you’ll be seeing these all summer. Airy, breezy, and incredibly versatile—what more could you need?
Gwyneth Flounce-Hem Slip Skirt, $181, J.Crew,
Esra Mini Skirt, $281, Bec + Bridge.
Lace Detail Liquid Satin Flounce Miniskirt, $554, 3.1 Phillip Lim.
Soffiano Skirt, $236, Guizio.
The Sway Denim Skirt, $357, Frame.
Polka Dot Prints
To be clear, these are not your grandmother’s polka dots. This playful print has made the rounds for the spring/summer 2025 runways, and it’s already becoming a popular choice for those who want something with a little added oomph this summer.
Thalia Ruffle Sleeveless Top, $426, Ulla Johnson.
Tira Polka-dot Silk Maxi Dress, $756, Hemant & Nandita.
Karina Dress, $275, Miaou.
Areza Polka-Dot Midi Skirt, $264, Rixo.
Bohemian Romance
If there’s one trend that stands out for the trend of the year—it’s the bohemian aesthetic. From slouchy suede hobo bags and chunky clogs to ethereal ruffled dresses, this look isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Channeling your inner boho girl might just be the best way to embrace the summer spirit.
Felipe Skirt, $1,010, Siedres.
Traveler Top, $270, Doen.
Ruffle Mini Dress, $229, & Other Stories.
Ultra-High Hemlines
If there was ever a season to show some extra leg, it’s summer. Micro miniskirts and minidresses are nothing new to the trend cycle, but there’s something about this year’s iterations that seem to have taken the industry by storm. Let these be your go-to when you want an easy and fun alternative to your everyday skirts and dresses.
Andi Tweed Sleeveless A-Line Minidress, $645, Sau Lee.
The Cami Slip Dress, $127, Cou Cou Intimates.
Sheer Staples
At this point, I think we can all consider the sheer trend a movement that’s here to stay. Considering that the summer months require dressing with the lightest possible materials, this is your easy styling trick to look put together (and undeniably cool) without weighing yourself down. And if you’re stumped on how to style it, I suggest approaching it with the idea of balance: You’ll be showing some extra skin in one area, so stay covered in others.
Modern Mist Top, US$395 (about S$509), Aisling.
Vina Sheer Overlay Minidress, $330, Reformation.
Auber Organza Button Down Shirt, $261, Rue Sophie.
Mesh Skirt Hazelnut, $220, Silk Laundry.
Crisp Cottons
There are few things in life I enjoy more than a crisp cotton piece for summer. Whether it’s in the form of a cotton button-up shirt, a linen dress, or even a pair of pants, these are the effortlessly chic staples you’ll wear day in and day out.
Natalie Elasticated Cotton Midi Skirt, US$145 (about S$187), Aligne.
Exclusive Riviera Lori Open-Back Linen Maxi Dress, US$450 (about S$580), Posse.
This article was first seen on ELLE US.