Over the years, I’ve trained myself to resist the allure of micro-trends. Instead, my focus has shifted entirely to investing in classic, foundational items—pieces that are guaranteed to retain their value and endure in style. While it’s been a challenge, it’s been worth it because it’s not only allowed me to save money but also save time when I get dressed. I can rely on the fact that my closet consists of pieces that are “in” and inherently pair nicely with one another, eliminating the daily dilemma of outfit planning.
With Memorial Day Weekend behind us, marking the start of summer, I’ve been focusing on warm-weather style and adopting an anti-trend approach as I curate my wardrobe. My aim is to build a highly selective collection of versatile, chic, and timeless pieces that will serve as the foundation of my summer uniform. For instance, while cute, I’m skipping bloomer shorts, which are limited to certain occasions, in favor of polished and practical Bermuda shorts that easily transition from the office to drinks. This is just one example. Keep reading to see the four other summer trends I’m skipping and the four anti-trends I’m choosing instead.
Skipping: Zipped Sweaters
Wearing: Open-Weave Knits
(Image credit: The Image Direct)
When one thinks of summer dressing, sweaters usually don’t come to mind first, but they’re still important, especially for a crisp morning or a breezy evening. Because not all knits are created equal, this year I’m being intentional about the style I wear. While I love lightweight zip-up and open-weave sweaters, those with a slouchy scoop neck are shaping up to be the chic option. The style was recently spotted on Elsa Hosk, who styled it with low-rise Bermuda shorts and flip-flops for a casual outing in L.A.
Shop the anti-trend:
ZARA
Boat Neck Knit Jumper
Reformation
Elliot Boucle Crew
KHAITE
Davet Open-Knit Silk and Cotton-Blend Sweater
Bdg
Nola Cotton Blend Oversized Boatneck Sweater
Skipping: Bloomers
Wearing: Bermuda Shorts
Don’t get me wrong, bloomer shorts are very cute, especially for vacationing in Ibiza or Greece; however, when it comes to timeless summer shorts, Bermudas are the answer. Why? They balance polish with effortlessness. Instead of traditional trouser-like silhouettes, this summer I’ll be leaning into modern iterations, such as those with drawstrings or regular elastic waistbands, and materials such as cotton, taffeta, or satin. Look to COS and Reformation for the most elegant options.
Shop the anti-trend:
COS
Elasticated Grosgrain-Detail Cotton Shorts
THE ROW
Emiliano Cotton-Poplin Shorts
Modern Citizen
Arlo Cotton Bermuda Short
Skipping: Platform Slides
Wearing: Sleek Flip-Flops
A five-foot woman, you’ll rarely ever find me in flats—especially in the summer. However, on the off chance that you do, there’s only one style that you can expect to find on my feet: flip-flops. Not just any kind of these sandals, though, but elevated, minimalist pairs made with sleek lines, muted colors, and no logos whatsoever.
Shop the anti-trend:
TKEES
The Boyfriend Leather Flip Flop
Reformation
Jessie Thong Sandal
TOTEME
Croc-Effect Leather Flip Flops
Massimo Dutti
Mid-Heel Sandals With Toe Divider
Skipping: Cropped Tops
Wearing: Romantic Sleeveless Blouses
‘Tis the season to show off your pretty blouses. There are so many amazing styles to be found ahead of the official start of summer. Since the options are truly endless, it could be easy to make a mistake and choose the wrong one or two, so before you swipe your credit card, ask yourself, ‘Would Chemena Kamali from Chloé approve?’ That’s the vibe fashion insiders are going for in 2026—airy, dainty, luxurious, nostalgic, soft, and a bit sultry.
Shop the anti-trend:
Massimo Dutti
Asymmetric Roll Neck Top With Lace Detail
CHLOÉ
Ruffled Cotton-Poplin Top
Reformation
Eli Oversized Shirt
Skipping: Animal-Shaped Bags
Wearing: Woven Totes
I’m all for personality pieces, such as an animal-shaped bag. However, something like that is very seasonal, and if you want to be—or at least act like—a smart shopper, versatile accessories are where it’s at in 2027. Take a straw or raffia bag, for example. This item is not only classic but has also, more recently, proven its versatility, solidifying the need for every fashion person to own at least one. While it was once delegated to beaches and pools, styled with swimwear and coverups as of late, raffia tote bags, anything from slouchy to structured styles, have been paired with trousers, jeans, skirts, shorts, and dresses.
Shop the anti-trend:
COS
Hand-Woven Market Tote
Lié Studio
The Charlotte Raffia Bag
DRAGON DIFFUSION
Terrafino Woven Leather Tote
LIFFNER
Striped Leather-Trimmed Sisal Shoulder Bag
