Style insiders are aware of these six summer accessory trends that elevate simple outfits to a more sophisticated level.
It may reflect our previous obsession with micro trends, but in recent years, the word "summer" has become a descriptive term used to identify a distinct aesthetic that seemingly mirrors our shared emotions. Expressions like “tomato girl summer” and “brat summer” do more than just create a visual image; they've transformed into guidelines for how we should enjoy the season and influence our fashion choices. (For instance: opting for bright red tones and white cotton dresses along the shores of Sardinia for the former, or pairing a strappy tank top with leather mini shorts and sipping an Aperol Spritz for the latter.) This year, the warm months embody a more relaxed, effortless vibe. Minimalism is in vogue, and over-styling is out, leading fashion enthusiasts to adopt a chic simplicity in their summer attire. This evolution highlights classic silhouettes, with capri pants becoming popular among celebrities, drop waist dresses taking center stage, and timeless items like lace-trimmed satin shorts and polka-dot prints emerging, showcasing our refined tastes. However, as we tone down our outfits, especially in contrast to the bolder ensembles we wore before, how do we infuse a sense of fun and individuality into these elegantly understated looks? Introducing: The essential summer accessory trends for 2025. Fashion insiders understand that enhancing a polished silhouette involves adding a few thoughtful details. The right choice of sunglasses, handbag, jewelry, and shoes can elevate or ruin an outfit. Coco Chanel once advised, “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off,” but when our outfits are so refined, the secret to achieving an editorial or high-end appearance lies in complementing the basics with something decorative. Like the apparel we're drawn to, the key summer accessory trends for 2025 are also sophisticated, yet infused with a sense of romance and coastal allure that we seek from our warm-weather attire. From beach shells attached to cord necklaces to gingham bandanas evoking a Grace Kelly vibe with effortless designs, explore the seven top summer accessory trends of 2025 below.
6 Summer Accessory Trends to Keep an Eye On for 2025
1. Bandanas
Style Insights: If the summer of 2024 was centered around evoking your inner Jackie Kennedy or Brigitte Bardot with vintage headscarves reminiscent of Old Hollywood, the summer of 2025 is about channeling Audrey Hepburn with playful bandanas. Seen worn by everyone from Sofia Richie Grainge in the South of France to rising British model Mia Regan, this trend combines rustic charm with ‘60s nonchalance. Just last week, it made its way from Glastonbury—where Gracie Abrams sported one during her performance debut, styling it with a burgundy Rodarte dress, and later casually as Charli XCX’s “Apple” girl roaming Worthy Farm in a white T-shirt and Adidas track pants—to the halls of Versailles with its appearance on Jacquemus’s spring 2026 runway. The French designer noted this styling was a tribute to the rural fashion typical of his upbringing. However, do not mistake this trend for a new cottagecore symbol. In fact, urban women are pairing these headscarves with everything from sleek straight-leg jeans to Doên tops. Totally sophisticated in the city.
Shop the Accessory:
- & Other Stories: Graphic-Print Square Scarf - This style exudes a Toteme vibe.
- Hunza G: Sofia Gingham Seersucker Headscarf - Aptly named Sofia, it’s perfect for recreating Grainge’s chic French Riviera look.
- Free People: Essential Triangle Bandana - A stylish reminder that brown and blue create a classic summer color combo, this paisley design elevates the pairing.
2. Shell Necklaces
Style Insights: Since the trend of “Birkin-ifying” accessories with charms and trinkets has caught on, we've become enamored with carrying mementos from our travels. Shell necklaces are this season's twist on that concept. Whether serving as nostalgic reminders of childhood beach vacations or adding a coastal touch to sophisticated outfits, this summer is all about enhancing looks with aquatic inspiration. Pia Mance, the founder of the popular jewelry brand Heaven Mayhem, shared that her shell necklaces have greatly resonated with customers. After launching a collection inspired by “sun, sea, shells, and sand” in mid-June, she noted, “We sold 70% of the collection within the first 48 hours, and now only about 10% remains.” The appeal of shell necklaces? “They’re fun, relaxed, and do significant work in completing an outfit! A shell necklace is the ideal summer accessory to add to a simple ensemble.”
Shop the Accessory:
- JENNIFER BEHR: Atrani Gold-Plated, Shell, Crystal, and Cord Necklace - Named after a charming town on the Amalfi Coast, this exquisite necklace is the most luxurious interpretation of the
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Style insiders are aware of these six summer accessory trends that elevate simple outfits to a more sophisticated level.
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