Summer weather is upon us, and with it comes a brand-new season of trends and ways of dressing. So often, summertime can be a challenge. It seems the daily highs go from 60 to 80 in a matter of weeks, making the lightweight knits and jeans of spring no longer sustainable during hot and humid days. Come July; we’re all just trying to stay cool. However, this year’s crop of trends feels a bit more flexible and functional. Here’s a rundown of what I’m hoping will work for me and you this summer.

Starting with footwear, thong sandals are going to be everywhere this season. A step up from flip-flops, but just as minimal, thong-style styles can be flat or have a heel and are a bit sturdier (let alone more stylish) than a pair of plastic flippers, as my 5-year-old calls them. I prefer leather or faux leather footbed with a thicker elasticated strap for a more supportive fit. Dress up these sandals with sundresses of any length or wear them casually with shorts and tank tops. Check out the Asher Sandal at DSW or the Ralph Lauren Rosalind Thong at Macy’s. And like with all open-toed shoes, be sure to clean up your toenails. You don’t have to go with a full-court pedicure, but shoes always look their best with clean, trimmed, smoothed, and filed feet.

After all the upheavals of the past year and the slow return to normalcy, it’s not surprising that a number of vintage and retro-inspired trends are taking hold. Who doesn’t find comfort in the familiar, right? Beaded jewelry reminiscent of the 90s seems to be on offer from retailers across the board, from Target to Talbots. This is also a great craft project when school is out. Whether you have school-age children or not, consider creating your own beaded pieces (the brighter, the better) to bring a bit of DIY flair to your summer blouses and skirts.

Another crafty trend that I’m also linking directly to the pandemic is crochet. From tops to bags to hats, this throwback is the result of so many people taking up the hobby during quarantine. Results may vary, so I’d recommend sticking to accessories when making your own. And even if you purchase crocheted pieces from an Etsy seller or a name brand, the thought of a crochet top or dress, especially for anyone over 20, feels like it can go so wrong so quickly.

If beads and crochet aren’t your bag, but you still want to dip a toe into yesteryear, consider modern silhouettes in retro prints. From floral dresses from the likes of ModCloth to psychedelic swirled scarves from Redbubble to tie-dye socks from Bombas — sixties and seventies inspired prints are everywhere. And like the beading and crochet above, tie-dye makes for an excellent project on a rainy summer afternoon.

Besides patterns of the past, a timeless classic that never really goes out of style — but does make its way around the trend cycle — are animal prints. As people are itching to dress up again, sultry animal prints are a way to tap into their — dare I say — hedonistic side, sartorially speaking. A simple search for “animal print clothing” reveals results as varied as leopard print t-shirts from Walmart to pull-on cheetah shorts from H&M to zebra-print mini dresses from Urban Outfitters. To take summer by the teeth, wear animal-printed pieces paired with khaki or linen for that safari feel. Chances are you probably already have a few leopards or giraffes languishing in your closet.

Summer is the time to bare some skin if you feel comfortable doing so. Last summer was all about the midriff; 2021 is all about the shoulders and back. Hence open backs and halter tops are one of this season’s defining trends. If you have a much-anticipated event, check out the backless dresses to rent at Rent the Runway. There’s no need to invest in a risk-taking garment when you have little occasion to wear it, so treat yourself with a rental and wow at your summer event. Or, go for a square-shaped neckline front and back to simulate a backless feel. For halter tops, opt for a piece in a sturdy fabric. Anything too flimsy could reveal more than you’re comfortable showing. Also, be mindful of wearing the correct bra. I tend to avoid tops that require specialty undergarments, but like the animal prints above, I’m ready to walk on the wild side. I’ve found that a bralette works almost and a traditional bra in terms of coverage for backless silhouettes. For halters, depending on how thick the strap, a convertible or strapless bra will be your best bet.

Lastly, layers. Even if it’s sweltering outside, it can be quite chilly in the air conditioning. Instead of sweaters or sweatshirts, try oversized button-downs as a layering piece. Button-up shirts are a bit more polished option than your office sweater for work and zhuzh up casual tanks and sweat shorts when you’re out and about. And sure, you can go shopping for a new shirt, or just borrow from the boys, but be sure to ask before raiding your husband’s, boyfriend’s, Dad’s, or brother’s closet.