Dua! Alexa! Hailey! The Best Dressed It Girls are Wearing These Fresh Summer Trends (and Dresses Don't Make the Cut)
Our take
## Our Take: Beyond Dresses – The Shift in It Girl Summer Style
The recent heatwaves have undeniably ushered in summer, and with it, a fascinating recalibration of what constitutes “stylish” dressing among the influential “it girls” – Dua Lipa, Alexa Chung, and Hailey Bieber, to name a few. This article’s declaration that dresses aren't cutting it this season feels significant, a departure from the traditionally favored summer staple. It’s a signal that practicality and a more considered approach to layering are gaining ascendancy over purely aesthetic choices. We’ve long observed a tension between effortless chic and the demands of summer heat, and this trend suggests a resolution leaning towards the former. The focus is shifting towards adaptable separates – open shirts, flip flops, and thoughtfully curated pieces that prioritize comfort without sacrificing style. This echoes a broader movement towards minimalist summer outfits Minimalist Summer Outfits, reflecting a desire for a more sustainable and versatile wardrobe. It's less about chasing fleeting trends and more about investing in foundational pieces that can be mixed and matched with ease.
What's particularly compelling is the implied rejection of the "capsule wardrobe" as a prescriptive formula. While the concept of a curated, essential collection remains relevant, the emphasis here isn't on adhering to a rigid list of items. It’s about *feeling* effortlessly stylish, and that often means prioritizing pieces that respond well to fluctuating temperatures and require minimal effort. The article's referencing of a French woman's summer dress [Every Stylish French Woman Has One of These Pretty Dresses in Their Summer Capsule Wardrobe] highlights the enduring appeal of classic silhouettes, yet the overall message suggests a willingness to move beyond them. The rise of affordable fashion that doesn't look basic [Affordable Fashion That Looks Anything but Basic] also plays into this – the new luxury isn’t about expensive pieces, but about confident, considered styling. The notion that a big budget and a good outfit aren’t synonymous with each other is a powerful message, resonating with a generation increasingly conscious of both style and value. Even the aspirational image of a Montauk summer [5 Summer Montauk Outfit Ideas For A Hamptons Summer] is being re-examined, with a move away from overtly glamorous, beach-ready looks towards something more relaxed and understated.
This development speaks to a growing sophistication in how we approach fashion. It's no longer simply about displaying the latest trends; it’s about cultivating a personal style that reflects a sense of self-assuredness and ease. The “it girls” are, in a sense, modeling a new kind of luxury – one rooted in simplicity, versatility, and a quiet confidence. This aligns with the ethos of intentionality and understated elegance that permeates modern aesthetics. It’s a move away from performative dressing and toward a more authentic expression of personal style. The rejection of dresses isn't a dismissal of femininity, but rather a broadening of its definition. It’s about embracing a more fluid and adaptable approach to dressing, one that allows for both comfort and sophistication. This shift reflects a broader cultural move toward prioritizing well-being and self-expression over traditional notions of glamour.
Looking ahead, it’s fascinating to consider how this trend will evolve. Will we see a continued decline in the prevalence of dresses in influencer styling? Will separates become the undisputed champions of summer wardrobes? Or will this be a cyclical moment, a temporary rebellion against the dress-dominated aesthetic? Regardless, the current emphasis on practicality, versatility, and understated elegance signals a significant shift in the landscape of “it girl” style, one that prioritizes feeling effortlessly chic over adhering to prescribed trends. It invites us to question the very definition of summer style and to embrace a more intentional and personally expressive approach to dressing.
After two heatwaves (and one unexpected storm), it's fair to say that we're fully in the throes of summer. Our boots and jackets have been tucked to the back of the wardrobe in favour of flip flops and open shirts, but with practicality so important to getting summer style right, it can often mean that we end up relying on the same pieces time and time again.
Good news then, that when it comes to outfit inspiration, we're not short on places to turn to to inject a little fun back into our wardrobes. London girls know how to put an edgy spin on summer in the city, Scandi women are lightyears ahead when it comes to colour, shape and structure, and French women have effortless elegance down to a (perfectly cut) tee. Summer outfit inspiration really is everywhere if you look for it, but whenever I'm in need of a new way to style a shoe, or the next big designer bag set to go viral, the first place I turn to is the new gen style set.
Alexa Demie! Elsa Hosk! Dua Lipa! There are some women on my style mood board who always get it right, and never ones to follow trends, you can bet that they are the first to set them. What did we wear in the heatwave before It girls singlehandedly brought back capri trousers? And trainers? No thank you, sartorial A-listers are living in wedges and minimalist flats right now, not to mention Hailey Bieber's much discussed GAP denim collab suddenly convincing us we need to wear jeans in high summer too.
With so many events filling our social calendars and a good couple of months of soaring temperatures ahead, its time to up our game (with a little help from fashion's best dressed). So, whether you're a loyal minimalist, experimental maximalist (or fall somewhere in-between), these are the summer trends that deserve your full attention right now—as chosen by the most stylish women in the game.
10 It Girl High Summer Fashion Trends to Wear on Repeat in 2026
1. Aprons, Bibs and Pinafores
Style Notes: From babydoll dresses to ballet flats, Elsa Hosk's maternity wardrobe has been a lesson in warm weather dressing that we can all benefit from. The latest prairie-inspired piece to make its way into her regular rotation (and ours) is bib detailing—be it on blouses, dresses or overalls. There's something about the combination of a square collar, lace trim and side ties that feels fresh for this summer, and now that the high street has cottoned on too (excuse the pun), this pretty trend could be big enough to rival basic white tees this season.
Shop Aprons, Bibs and Pinafores:
I can't believe that this hasn't already sold out.
I already own this, and get so many compliments.
Such a cute set.
2. Business Stripes
Style Notes: Who said skinny stripes have to be the reserve of the boardroom? This summer "stuffy" stripey shirts feel significantly cooler when loosely unbuttoned and paired with shades and baggy trousers a la Laura Harrier. If you don't already have a crisp shirt in your wardrobe, now is a good time to invest in these transitional heroes that you can wear all year round. Sharp tailoring not your style? Clean stripes are across everything from shorts to sandals right now, so you can nod to the trend without any businessman connotations.
Shop Pinstripes:
A true wardrobe staple.
Just add a loose tee and sandals.
When it's too warm to wear with jeans, tie this around your shoulders.
3. Raffia Hats
Style Notes: It goes without saying that a basket bag is the style of the summer, every summer, but this year we've noticed the style set doubling up on all things woven and finishing their 'fits with raffia hats too. Cowboy hats, buckets, supersized, floppy sun hats—it doesn't matter the shape as long as your hat channels the artisanal quality that makes it look like it was handmade in the old town of your favourite holiday destination. Take notes from Emily Ratajkowski and team yours with swimwear and a sarong on the beach, and throw on oversized shirt over the top for the boardwalk.
Shop Raffia Hats:
Whether you're reclining on a yacht or weekend shopping, this is the perfect finishing touch for your warm weather outfits.
This is all you need to make your swimwear feel that much cooler.
I'd wear this with a pinafore top.
4. Bandeaus
Style Notes: When its too hot for sleeves (let alone fussy straps), it's time to introduce a bandeau into your rotation. Whether it's a jersey top or an evening-ready dress, these pull-on-and-go wonders are a crease-proof, tan-line-safe swap that make the most of the high temperatures. After all, when else in the year can you get away with such bare arms? Keep accessories to a minimum like Maya Jama's Jean Paul Gaultier look to let your sunkissed skin be the star of the show.
Shop Bandeaus:
No one will believe that this isn't designer.
I love everything about this look for a dressy, summer evening.
The perfect base for so many summer outfits.
5. Bandanas and Head Scarves
Style Notes: After last year's Pucci summer brought back psychedelic prints and silk scarves, this year's prarie girl swaps her 60's satin for classic bandanas and cutesy lace trims that pair perfectly with nightgown cottons and cropped, capri trousers. Kendall Jenner's off-duty look shows just how much a bandana can elevate even the most basic long sleeved tee, so on the days when you're in a rush (and don't have time to do your hair), a head scarf is the quick and easy styling hack that always looks like you've made an effort.
Shop Bandanas and Head Scarves:
Just look at that pretty lace trim.
Perfectly paired with a white top and blue denim.
How to go from "wearing" vs "styling" in one easy step.
6. Sports Tees
Style Notes: The summer of sport just wouldn't be complete without a little bit of "go team!" energy, and even if the World Cup, Wimbledon, F1 and Rugby Nations Championship aren't high on your agenda, fan-coded fashion is still very much in. Lightweight jerseys and tees are the natural evolution of spring's most discussed top trend, the raglan, so even if you don't make it to a stadium you can throw together this cool-girl look with just a pair of shorts and a flip flop.
Shop Sports Tees:
Just the right amount of distressed to look vintage.
The pinnacle of cool right now.
Sports adjacent for those who like to keep it minimal
7. See-Through Shoes
Style Notes: There's no escaping the fact that the divisive jelly shoe has dominated footwear for the last year, and after evolving from classic flats to heeled princess shoes, they are also taking up the "ugly shoe" mantel and aqua shoes are now trending too. Alexa's beach shoes might have been a practical choice first and foremost, but they are a reminder of just how far see-through shoes have come over the last year, and as they show no signs of slowing down, now is the perfect time to try a pair of the most talked about shoes in the world right now.
Surprisingly comfortable.
Add a little bit of sparkle to your step.
Such a good find in the sale!
8. Visor Sunglasses
Style Notes: We've been treated to a wealth of sunglasses trends this year, but if you're looking for a pair with real staying power in 2026, bigger is definitely better. Whether they're the fashion forward choice or simply just the best for dodging paparazzi, It girls everywhere have been sporting supersized visor styles like Dua Lipa, and making shades the focal point of the outfit rather than just the finishing touch.
Shop Supersized Sunglasses:
Now these are statement sunnies.
Sportcore, eat your heart out.
These are guaranteed to invite compliments.
9. Knee Skirts
Style Notes: By now knee skirts will be all over your radar, as the Prada and Miu Miu effect is impossible to ignore. Maxi skirts are a reoccurring staple and micro minis had their moment a couple of years ago, but the ladylike knee-length skirt works for everybody, including fashion women who subvert the demure energy by opting for bold styles and prints, and pairing them with everything from band tees to sculptural shoes. Alexa Demie is a prime example of a new gen style icon who knows how to mix aesthetics, and this white tank + knee skirt + peep toe combination is a fresh take on a classic skirt, and a reminder of just how easy to style up these versatile skirts are.
Shop Knee Skirts:
I'd take this in every colour, and it comes in 6.
Proof that polka dots aren't dated.
Such a vibrant, summer shade.
10. Toe Rings and Anklets
Style Notes: Given just how popular the simple flip flop has been this summer, it makes sense that one of the biggest jewellery trends to come out of the season has been decorating ones feet. Toe rings! Anklets! However you can personalise your look to the smallest detail, take the opportunity. Everyone from Leandra Cohen to Jennifer Lawrence have been spotted sporting toe bling over the last 6 months, and after Rihanna's elegantly draped Briony Raymond diamond anklet caused a stir in January, it was official. The nineties called, and foot jewellery is back with a vengance.
Shop Jewellery:
Yes, Missoma really does make anklets this pretty.
Good enough to want to wear on your fingers.
Simply stunning.
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