7 Summer Trends We’re Swerving and 7 Fresh Ones We’re Wearing Instead
Now that summer feels like it’s finally settling in, I’ve found myself taking stock. Of the weather (at last, sandal-appropriate), of my wardrobe (now populated with white dresses and linen) and, inevitably, of the fashion trends that feel less relevant than they did last summer. It’s not about calling anything “over” (we’ve all worn trends past their social media peak and loved them), but more about tuning into what feels fresh and what doesn’t quite spark our excitement anymore.
We’ve already explored the most noteworthy trends for summer 2025 but, as we step into the heart of the season, I thought it might be interesting to take the temperature of the fashion desk. What are we genuinely looking forward to wearing this summer and, conversely, which trends are quietly slipping off our radar.
The responses from my colleagues were considered and, at times, charmingly diplomatic. As editors, we try to stay open to the full fashion landscape—after all, what feels off to one person might feel totally fresh to another. But when it comes to personal style, we’re allowed to be a little picky.
What follows isn’t a list of hard “nos”; rather, it’s a gentle guide to the trends we’re individually passing on this season. There may be a few you still love (and I probably do too) and that’s the joy of fashion: it’s personal. If there are, then by all means continue to wear them! Still, if you’re curious to know which pieces aren’t quite passing the vibe check for summer 2025 amongst our editors—and which ones we’re wearing instead—scroll on.
7 “Dated” Summer Trends Our Editors Aren’t Into, and 6 They Are
1. Passing: Butterfly Tops
Wearing: Scarf Tops
“Some things should be left in the early ’00s and, in my opinion, the butterfly top is one of them. It’s just one of those trends that always looks costumey no matter how you style it. The nostalgic scarf top, however, looks much chicer and loans itself more so to 2025. Picture one of the below with wide-leg linen trousers and strappy gold sandals and you’re on my wavelength.”—Hannah Almassi, Editor in Chief
Shop the Trend
RIXO
Menno Scarf in Abstract Dot Black
This comes in a slew of colours and prints, but this abstract motif is the one I have my eye on.
4th & Reckless
Iris Pointed-Hem Bandeau Top
For the minimalists amongst you.
SIR
Portia Floral Silk Crop Top
I’ll wear this chic top with cropped linen trousers and tan suede sandals.
2. Passing: Denim Shorts
Wearing: Capri Pants
“Hear me out—while I love jeans on cooler days, I’m not riveted by the denim short trends that rears every summer. I personally don’t love the look of a boxy jort on myself, and anything too micro just reminds me of how we’d used to wear them in 2012. (See: over stockings and with Converse). Instead, I’m sticking to the classic three-quarter lengths and slipping into a pair of capris. If they’re good enough for Audrey Hepburn, Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber, they’re good enough for me.”—Ava Gilchrist, SEO writer
Shop the Trend
Reformation
Gusta Knit Cropped Pant
Next
Neutral Gingham Capri Trousers
These come in two lengths and sizes 4 to 20.
FAITHFULL
Capri Cropped Linen Slim-Fit Pants
The subtle kick-flare makes for a chic alternative to straight-leg capris.
3. Passing: Florals
Wearing: Polkadots
“As a minimalist florals often come in bolder colours and feel too ‘out there’ for me. Polkadots are still a playful, elevated print but look much more sophisticated and refined.”—Brittany Davy, editorial assistant
Shop the Trend
ZIMMERMANN
Acacia Polka-Dot Linen Mini Dress
Reformation
Dorothea Two Piece
Keep things quick in the getting-ready department with a matching skirt co-ord.
Nobody’s Child
White Polka Dot Bandeau Felicity Midi Dress
This dress keeps selling out—don’t pause on the restock.
4. Passing: Chunky Sandals
Wearing: Elevated Flip Flips
“No hate to chunky sandals, they can look incredibly sleek when done right (see A.Emery’s Jalen sandals for proof) but, often, they can wind up looking clunky and cheap. Instead, I’ve found that simple leather flip flops tend to look expensive no matter how much you spend.”—Florrie Alexander, shopping editor
Shop the Trend
These also come in a classic black colourway.
Reformation
Jessie Thong Sandal
Take your pick from the various shades and materials on offer.
Russell & Bromley
Radford Sandals
5. Passing: Y2K Revival
Wearing: ’90s Minimalism
“All the low-rise denim, rhinestones, and chaotic layering feels like playing dress-up. This summer, I’m drawn to the restraint and quiet power of ’90s minimalism—think clean silhouettes, impeccable tailoring and luxe fabrics that whisper instead of shout. It feels intelligent, unfussy and timeless; exactly how I want to dress.”—Humaa Hussain, junior branded content editor
Shop the Trend
Toteme
Slouch Waist Basketweave Dress Straw
Toteme is my go-to for considered minimal designs.
Pair this with Bermudas or a pencil skirt.
No, that price isn’t a typo.
6. Passing: Gingham
Wearing: Pinstripes
“I know gingham print is reminiscent of picnic blankets, and returns every summer the minute the sun is high in the sky, but it’s one trend I want to shelve this time around. It feels a little too twee for me, which is not the direction I am trying to take my personal style towards in 2025. Instead, I am opting for pinstripes. I feel stripes (the more micro, the better) remain a true classic, like heirloom oxford shirts in crisp, lightweight cotton-poplin. I’m dipping into the trend by way of boxer style shorts, oversized shirts and co-ords and mixing them up to give my look a fun and contemporary twist.”—Sophie Robyn Watson, acting shopping editor
Shop the Trend
Nobody’s Child
Green Striped Parker Wide Leg Trousers
Sorry to my jeans—these trousers are replacing you for the next few months.
FAITHFULL
Lison Open-Back Striped Linen and Cotton-Blend Midi Dress
ZARA
Oversize Striped Poplin Shirt and Top
Pair this with everything, from white denim to lace maxi skirts.
7. Passing: Big Earrings
Wearing: Long Necklaces
“For the longest time, my standout jewellery of choice has been big gold earrings. While they’ll very much remain in my summer rotation (nothing makes a thrown-up hairstyle look better IMO), I’d be lying if I didn’t admit I feel a little samey whenever I put some on. Enter the long pendant necklace, one of summer 2025’s biggest jewellery trends. This modern update features large polished gemstones or metal objects as the pendant and, often, a cord as the length. Invest in one for yourself and I guarantee you’ll never look at a white tee in the same way.”—Maxine Eggenberger, deputy editor
Shop the Trend
& Other Stories
Sculptural Pendant Cord Necklace
This silver style will capture the light.
Etsy
Green Stone Necklace
A chic style from a small retailer.
