Sometimes, it takes a minute to settle into the season and figure out its themes and trends. In my younger and more opinionated years, I’d have set up my style for the season ahead of schedule, but nowadays, I take a “wait and see” approach to seasonal aesthetics. With the summer solstice behind us, here’s a brief rundown of some mid-season trends you can incorporate into your summer wardrobe if you’re still searching for looks this season.
Starting from the bottom with shoes. There are a few shoe styles that seem to be buzzing as of late, some more practical than others. The one I find to be kind of ridiculous and would not recommend is mesh shoes. Yep, mesh in both ballet flat and mule forms. I’ve seen these in transparent skin-toned material, as well as embellished pairs. While I can kind of get behind these as in-door-only shoes, I just don’t see how your feet would not just be filthy at the end of a day of being out and about. Instead, I’d go for a Mary Jane flat, especially if you’re between pedicures. The strap keeps the shoe secure, the flat part is great for walking, and they can look very chic, whether rendered in black or a more colorful pair.
Working our way up to shorts and culottes. Denim cutoffs will forever be a summer staple, but for a more polished look, it is best to go with longer shorts. You want a pair that hits right above the knee, rendered in linen, canvas, or cotton. For a breezier feel, go with more of a culotte or gaucho with a longer length and wider leg, preferably in a pull-on silhouette or drawstring for maximum comfort.
Another bottom option is a long-pleated skirt. Maxi skirts aren’t showing any signs of fading, but if you’re tired of the boho vibes with the typical summer maxi, consider a pleated version that hits more mid-calf. Box pleats are a bit heavy for midsummer; instead, look for micro or knife pleats in pastels or floral prints. Flowy pleated skirts can go casual with simple white sneakers, a t-shirt, and a denim jacket, or they can be dressier with satin flats and a sleeveless blouse.
Speaking of dressy, for this season’s round of parties, the right summer cocktail dress will see you from a garden get-together to a rooftop soiree and through wedding season. Don’t shy away from bright colors and bold patterns when looking for a summer cocktail frock. This is not the time for a little black dress, but instead, oversized blooms in summery colors or graphic prints in a rainbow spectrum. If you’re not crazy about prints, then instead, go with a bold, bright solid color. Also, look for fuller skirts with lots of swish.
If your summer plans are less festive and more active, then consider a court-inspired look. No, I’m not talking about judge’s robes or lawyer suits, but more so skorts and tanks for a tennis-themed outfit. Whether or not you play, tennis skirts and dresses can see you through all sorts of summer activities, whether it’s hiking, biking, or pickleball.
For accessories, raffia should definitely be on your radar this summer. Raffia pieces tend to have more dimension and craftsmanship than other materials. Plus, they add an additional texture to your overall look. You can go with a raffia tote bag, bucket hat, or even earrings. If you’re being bold with a summer cocktail dress, then go with neutral-toned raffia pieces. Or, if you’re more minimal in your overall look, add some pops of color with raffia accessories in saturated tones like red or green — lastly, summer’s all-time add-on: Sunglasses. I tend to steer clear of trends with sunglasses. My thinking is that once you find the shape best suited to your face, then why mess with what works? However, this season oval sunglasses are piquing my interest. Their nostalgic look feels perfectly timed for a carefree summer.
Whether or not any of these trends speak to you, mid-season is always a good time to assess how your style and wardrobe are faring with whatever the rest of the summer has in store.
