The 8 Summer Fashion Trends Defining Our Style This Season

We’re officially amidst the dog days of summer, which means there’s no better time to get acquainted with the season’s hottest (no pun intended) trends. While the runways and various viral moments gave us a glimpse into which fashion items might take off (Palm Beach chic or Challengers-core, anyone?), now that the season is in full swing, we have a better look at exactly which trends are ruling summer 2024. From Euro summer-inspired kerchief hair accessories to frilly bloomer shorts, a wide range of coveted fashion items are filling our social media feeds. While the Y2K revival was the center of attention last summer, this year, 2010s bubble hemlines and ’90s thong sandals have entered the scene. “Softer” staples like the “Scandi-girl” aesthetic are front and center, but fun outliers like mesh gym shorts add an unexpected flair. Ahead, see eight of the top summer 2024 fashion trends, complete with product picks to get the look for yourself.

Kerchiefs

Euro summer-inspired hair kerchiefs have quickly popped onto our radar, becoming a must-have accessory this season. Hair scarves aren’t a new trend; in fact, the style dates back to medieval Europe and more recently was a go-to for old Hollywood style icons like Audrey Hepburn and Sophia Loren. Now, the likes of Matilda Djerf are putting a 2024-approved boho spin on the trend with crochet versions, while other Gen-Z icons like Devon Lee Carlson are sticking to the basics via classic bandanas.

Milkmaid Sundress

In the sky-high temps of summer, airy and lightweight pieces are essential. Luckily, summer 2024 has a standout, versatile dress trend to beat the heat: the milkmaid sundress. Celebrities like Hunter Schafer, Bella Hadid, and Sabrina Carpenter have embraced the style, which consists of a corset bodice, scoop neckline, and flowing A-line silhouette.

Copenhagen Blouse

The “Scandi-girl” aesthetic has undoubtedly taken off this summer, and the Copenhagen blouse is one item from the trend that’s taken on a life of its own. The blouse features tie-front closures and billowy sleeves, making it an ideal lightweight, breezy piece to add to your summer wardrobe. Like the milkmaid dress, the Copenhagen blouse is easy to wear and offers a fresh take on the softer styles we’ve already been seeing in recent seasons.

Bloomer Shorts

Often, we’ll see new iterations of existing fashion trends make their way into the next season, which is the case with bloomer shorts. Last year, boxer shorts became the polarizing trend of the season, and while the comfy style is still popular this summer, it seems like bloomers are the trend’s lingerie-inspired, “parlor style” sibling. The likes of Sabrina Carpenter and SZA have been championing the frilly underwear-meets-shorts trend on stage, but brands like Reformation, With Jéan, and Free People have somewhat more wearable bloomers on offer to work into your everyday style.

Bubble Hemlines

Bubble hemlines are back for summer 2024, and it-girls like Kylie Jenner and Chloë Sevigny have already co-signed the ‘00s and early 2010s trend. At first, the style was all but shunned from the fashion community, but the controversial skirt and dress trend has found its way to mainstream brands like J.Crew, Aritzia, and more. Instead of the maximalist approach of the 2010s, today’s bubble hemlines are trending in neutral colors like black and cream, and we love how they look styled with chic pieces like kitten heels or a crisp, simple tank top.

Sporty Shorts

While most of summer 2024’s top trends are wardrobe staples, a few micro-trend outliers bring some fun to the trend cycle, one of them being sporty shorts. Perhaps with the Olympics right around the corner, we have athletics on our minds, with both mesh gym shorts and nostalgic running shorts gaining momentum. While sneakers are still a viable option, many are also pairing the ultra-comfy bottoms with unexpected footwear, such as kitten heels and ballet slippers. Wrong shoe theory at it again!

Thong Flip Flops

’90s-inspired thong sandals are having a moment this summer, and we’re so here for it. The easy-to-wear style refers to flip-flops or sandals with simple, thin straps. Havaianas, in particular, has been a staple brand this summer, with its affordable price point and modern take on the classic rubber flip flop. In addition to flat sandals, thong kitten heels are also trending as an elevated version of the timeless silhouette.

All Things Raffia

From cowboy hats to sandals to oversized tote bags, it feels like raffia is everywhere this summer. The Gen-Z-loved trend is easy to wear and has a beach-ready vibe that fits the season perfectly. The best part? You can find plenty of luxe-looking raffia accessories for affordable prices, and 100% natural raffia is an eco-friendly option.