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The summer season calls for a style refresh.
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From New York to Paris, fashion designers have delivered an array of summer trends to try.
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Whether you gravitate towards hot pants and capris or prefer silks over lace, there’s a trend that’s perfect for your style needs.
Spring is already drawing to a close (that was fast!), which means the summer season is about to settle in for another round of sweltering weather. With sunny days and warmer temps come an influx of invitations that will have you venturing away from your A.C.—and you’ll need to dress the part for the weather and the occasion.
But summer heat doesn’t mean you have to break a sweat figuring out what to wear. Designers delivered a fabulous array of fashion trends to choose from that will make dressing up for all your summer soireés, like graduations, birthdays, and traveling abroad, a breeze.
From hot pants to capris and polos layered like a Miu Miu girl, there’s a summer fashion trend that will have you looking stylish all season long.
Hot, Hot, Hot Pants
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From left: Ralph Lauren Collection, Chanel, and Prada Spring/Summer 2025
Whether you’re out and about exploring the city or heading to the nearest beach to nourish your tan, hot pants are the cool-girl bottoms to try this summer. If you’re worried about showing too much skin, balance those high hemlines with tailored button-downs from Max Mara, fitted cardigans, as seen at Fendi, and maybe even a chunky Ralph Lauren sweater like the viral American flag design.
Chic Capris
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From left: Carolina Herrera, Tommy Hilfiger, and Kim Shui Spring/Summer 2025
If hot pants are just a tad too showy for your liking, then go for the semi-controversial capri pant trend, instead. Yes, this style is polarizing—not everyone loves an above-the-ankle crop—but if you ask us, there’s something undeniably chic about mid-calf pants in the summer. After all, if it’s good enough for Audrey Hepburn, it’s good enough for us.
Spectacular Silks
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From left: Versace, Etro, and Bottega Veneta Spring/Summer 2025
Making a stylish statement this summer is as easy as putting on the right piece and walking out the door. And there’s nothing better than scarf prints to cause a stir. Ranging from funky florals to geometric marvels, scarf-inspired tops are a flowy, silky take on a classic. Make sure to look out for daring dresses, like the ones at Bottega Veneta, and pieces with tons of pigment. It’s impossible not to turn heads in these prints.
Laid-Back Lace
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From left: Ralph Lauren Collection, Michael Kors Collection, and Chloé Spring/Summer 2025
Languidly lounging in lace during the sweltering summer is the epitome of laid-back luxury. The best way to incorporate the ladylike fabric into your wardrobe is by way of smart separates. As seen at Chloé and Michael Kors, this sporty take on the textile feels and looks fresher than a traditional dress. If you want a bit of edge, pair your lace look with leather knee-high boots or a cropped vest to release your inner rocker.
Posh Polos
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From left: Miu Miu, Lacoste, and Gabriela Hearst Spring/Summer 2025
Whether you like to layer yours like a Miu Miu girl or go the sheer route, the polos of today have gotten a major style upgrade since the Y2K era. Wearing this preppy style in the summer is a no-fuss option for those looking to add a bit of varsity flair and jaunty personality to their wardrobe. Pick polos in poppy colors to keep them from straying too far into school uniform territory.
Striking Shirtdresses
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From left: Tommy Hilfiger, Fendi, and Dior Spring/Summer 2025
Wearing a shirtdress in the summertime is a chic choice for those on the go—just ask Dior, Fendi, and Tommy Hilfiger. This all-in-one style can easily be styled for any occasion—all you need are the right accessories. For a stroll around the city or your commute to the office, try a low-heeled mule and vintage-style sneaker. For a more beach-ready ensemble, just throw on a sun hat and espadrilles.
Short Suited
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From left: Balmain, Emporio Armani, and Chanel Spring/Summer 2025
Just because temperatures are on the rise doesn’t mean you can’t slip into a suit during the summer months. To solve your summer style woes, simply choose a matching set like the crochet ones from Chanel and Ralph Lauren with a skirt or shorts. Long-sleeved jackets maintain an air of elegance, whereas the high hems of the bottoms keep things playfully sweet.
Swimsuits as Going Out Tops
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From left: Chloé, Zimmermann, and Miu Miu Spring/Summer 2025
Swim attire isn’t just for the beach anymore. Designers from Chloé to Zimmerman and Miu Miu have turned bikinis and maillots into the hottest going-out tops, lending a sexy athletic vibe to any outfit. Think of this trend as the cheeky cousins to bandeau tops and bodysuits.
Sheer Delight
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From left: Prada, Brandon Maxwell, and Hermés Spring/Summer 2025
Sheer separates are a sharp way to upgrade your summer style. Layer transparent pieces over solid bandeaus, tank tops, and hot pants à la Hermés for a look that stands out for all the right reasons. For the boldest of the bold, the colorful hues at Prada and the flashy embellishments at Brandon Maxwell add an extra oomph.
Wonder Wraps
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From left: Ulla Johnson, Ferragamo, and Miu Miu Spring/Summer 2025
Wrap skirts are getting a soft, supple upgrade this season. Lambskin and suede have replaced lighter-weight fabrics for summer, as evidenced by Ferragamo, Miu Miu, and Ulla Johnson.
We know what you’re thinking: Leather in the summer? Trust us. It’s a risk worth taking. The visual juxtaposition of fine leather and light cotton creates the ultimate cool-girl look.
Read the original article on InStyle