Not Jelly Sandals, Not Bag Charms—These Are the Unique Accessories That It Girls Are Sporting This Summer.

      If your Pinterest resembles mine, your mood board has clearly shifted focus from spring to summer. There's a whole folder filled with outfit inspirations for Thessaloniki for when the girls' trip finally leaves the group chat, an exhaustive search for that niche Gen Z sunglasses trend whose name escapes you, and an abundance of sunset photo shoot ideas. Or perhaps you're on the hunt for the ideal accessories that can transition from day to night in the summer. Fear not; I have everything you need. With a few beach trips already planned, I've been researching the It girls to uncover the specific accessory trends that stylish people are wearing this summer. Interestingly, the trends aren't jelly sandals or bag charms. These super cool styles are slightly off the mainstream radar. Spoiler alert: The scarves from last year’s scarf-belt trend are getting a fresh purpose. From L.A.’s trendsetter Elsa Hosk to Scandi style muse Josefine Haaning Jensen, keep scrolling to discover the six It-girl accessory trends that I consider essential for this summer. Expect boundary-pushing jewelry styles, standout pieces from the S/S 2026 runways, and new ways to utilize a wardrobe staple.

      **6 It-Girl Accessory Trends for Summer 2026**

      **Bug-Eyed Sunglasses**

      The style of Gen Z is anything but understated. Naturally, the sunglasses favored by my generation feature bold, oversized frames. Don’t be misled; the bug-eyed sunglasses trend isn’t exclusive to hyper-individualistic Gen Zers but has also appeared on the spring/summer 2026 runways from Miu Miu, Celine, and Saint Laurent. If you look beyond the obvious insect inspiration, you’ll find these shield-shaped frames are great for both sun protection and evading paparazzi.

      **Silk Bandanas**

      Last year, we saw fashionable individuals from NYC to London incorporating silk scarves into the scarf-belt trend. Even the iconic It girl Alex Chung adopted her take on this trend. This year, we’re not parting ways with our silk scarves; they've been elevated. The fashion-forward are slowly unlocking all the styling possibilities of the silk scarf. This summer, nothing beats wearing a silk scarf as a bandana, in my opinion, making it reign superior over any summer hat trends or hair accessories.

      **Crochet Cover-Up**

      A cover-up is an essential summer accessory. It’s both convenient and practical, and it can instantly elevate your beach look with one simple layer. However, not just any cover-up will suffice. It girls are opting for crochet dresses, cardigans, skirts, and more. As long as it’s crochet, you’re sure to achieve cool-girl status.

      **Beaded Necklace**

      The beaded necklace trend has gradually crept into my awareness. It only makes sense that, as jewelry trends move toward organic shapes and materials, chunky beaded necklaces would come next. The vibrant beadwork pairs perfectly with basic pieces like a classic white button-down or simple crewneck.

      **Bamboo Handle**

      I’m always on the lookout for summer accessories that can transition seamlessly from day to night, specifically from beach to dinner. The bamboo-handle bag fits this bill perfectly. Its relaxed oceanfront aesthetic easily transforms into a chic coastal ensemble—with the right styling, of course. While the Gucci Bamboo 1947 Bag is a classic option, a woven raffia style from Clare V offers a more bohemian vibe.

      **Mixed Metals**

      My fondness for the mixed-metal jewelry trend is well-established. It allows me to make the most of my jewelry collection. By disregarding outdated jewelry rules, I can play around with two-tone pieces and mix and match as I wish. If you're inspired, start with a dual-tone piece, then add in solid tones or other interesting textural elements like wooden bangles or beaded necklaces.

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