Style insiders are aware that these six summer accessory trends can elevate simple outfits to a more elegant level.
Perhaps it reflects our previous obsession with micro trends, but in recent years, the term “summer” has become a descriptive adjective used to identify a specific aesthetic that appears to capture our shared sentiment. Phrases like “tomato girl summer” and “brat summer” do more than create an atmosphere; they have transformed into guidelines for how we should enjoy the season and influence our fashion choices. (For example: Wearing pops of red and white cotton dresses along the shores of Sardinia if you're the former, or donning a strappy tank top, leather mini shorts, and sipping an Aperol Spritz if you're the latter.) This year, the warm months are characterized by a different kind of vibe—one that feels leisurely, effortless, and relaxed. Simplicity is in vogue, while over-styling is out, leading fashion enthusiasts to adopt a chic minimalist approach in their summer outfits. This change has brought timeless silhouettes back into the spotlight. The popularity of capri pants among celebrities, the dominance of drop-waist dresses, and the revival of classic items like lace-trimmed satin shorts and polka-dot patterns highlight our refined tastes. However, with our looks being more streamlined, especially compared to the bolder outfits of the past, how can we inject a sense of fun and individuality into these elegantly understated ensembles? Enter: The essential summer accessory trends of 2025. Fashion insiders understand that enhancing a carefully curated silhouette requires some thoughtful additions. The right sunglasses, handbags, jewelry, and footwear can elevate or diminish an outfit. While Coco Chanel reportedly advised, “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off,” when dressed in something so sleek, the secret to achieving a magazine-worthy or luxurious appearance is to enhance the base outfit with ornamental elements.
Like the clothing we are drawn to, the key summer accessory trends of 2025 are also elegant. Yet, they carry a sense of romanticism and coastal allure that we expect from our summer wardrobes. From beach shells attached to cord necklaces to gingham bandanas that evoke a touch of Grace Kelly sophistication in effortless silhouettes, discover the seven prominent accessory trends for summer 2025 below.
6 Summer Accessory Trends to Watch for 2025
1. Bandanas
Style Insights: If summer 2024 was about embodying the essence of Jackie Kennedy or Brigitte Bardot with vintage headscarves reminiscent of Old Hollywood, then summer 2025 is about channeling Audrey Hepburn with playful bandanas. Worn by everyone from Sofia Richie Grainge in the South of France to rising British model Mia Regan, this trend combines provincial charm with '60s simplicity. Recently, it made its way from the grounds of Glastonbury—where Gracie Abrams styled hers with a burgundy Rodarte dress, and later more casually as Charli XCX’s “Apple” girl in a white T-shirt and Adidas trackpants—to the grandeur of Versailles during Jacquemus’s spring 2026 runway, where the designer referenced the rustic aesthetic of his upbringing. However, this is not merely a sign of contemporary cottagecore; urban women are pairing these headscarves with everything from sharp straight-leg jeans to Doên tops.
Shop the Accessory:
- & Other Stories Graphic-Print Square Scarf: This design exudes a Toteme vibe.
- Hunza G Sofia Gingham Seersucker Headscarf: Appropriately named Sofia, it makes it easy to emulate Grainge’s chic Riviera look.
- Free People Essential Triangle Bandana: Acknowledged by stylish individuals as an elite summer color combination, this paisley pattern enhances the soothing brown and blue palette.
2. Shell Necklaces
Style Insights: Since the mainstream trend of “Birkin-ifying” accessories with charms, talismans, and trinkets gained traction, we’ve become enchanted by carrying reminders from our travels with us. Shell necklaces are this season's answer to that trend. Whether evoking memories of childhood beach trips or adding a coastal touch to sophisticated outfits, this season emphasizes enhancing looks with aquatic motifs. Pia Mance, the founder of the popular jewelry brand Heaven Mayhem, shares about her line of shell necklaces released in mid-June, inspired by “the essence of the season—sun, sea, shells, and sand.” Mance notes, “We sold through 70% of the collection within the first 48 hours and now have around 10% left of stock,” attributing the trend’s success to the necklaces being “fun, laid-back, and perfect for completing an outfit.”
Shop the Accessory:
- JENNIFER BEHR Atrani Gold-Plated Shell, Crystal, and Cord Necklace: Named after a charming Amalfi Coast town, this necklace is one of the most luxurious interpretations of the trend.
- JUJU VERA Petra Tassel Necklace in Ivory: This elegant piece features a ribbon reminiscent of the iconic Elsa
Other articles
Style insiders are aware that these six summer accessory trends can elevate simple outfits to a more elegant level.
Come on and let the happiness start.
