You might not agree, but fashion insiders say that these 7 summer fashion trends are officially "outdated."
As a strong advocate for the thoughtfully curated art of a balanced capsule wardrobe, I don’t pay much attention to the label “dated” when discussing fashion. You see, I (along with my fellow editors at Who What Wear UK) believe that no matter your budget, once you’ve made wise investments, the items in your closet should endure the constantly shifting fashion landscape. However, from time to time, making a swap or two can help your essentials feel a bit more modern and rejuvenate their appeal.
With nostalgia continuing to influence trends, various previously labeled “dated” styles are reappearing in our mood boards. Whether it’s the iconic Isabel Marant Beckett Wedge from the 2010s, the capri pant from the '60s, or the jelly sandals from the Y2K era, each of these once-overlooked pieces is finding its way back into the closets of the most fashionable individuals as summer approaches. So, what does this mean for the trends of 2026? The answer is quite straightforward. After reviewing the spring/summer runways and examining the social media profiles of the most stylish women on the platform, it’s clear that the trends they are embracing aren’t drastically different from previous summers. Imagine fresh cornflower blue in place of butter yellow and whimsical florals exchanged for classic polka dots. Curious about what else is shifting and what should be added to your wardrobe? I’ve compiled a list of seven trends that fashion insiders are swapping out their “dated” styles for this summer in 2026.
1. Pausing: Butter Yellow, Wearing: Cornflower Blue
Style Notes: Following the vibrant turquoise satin that emerged this spring, cornflower blue has risen to prominence in 2026. Combining nature’s tranquility with sophistication, this soft hue pairs flawlessly with understated neutrals. Found in everything from silky satin dresses to playful wedge flip-flops, this color will have you feeling as relaxed as the summer weather itself.
Shop Cornflower Blue:
- Reformation: Danica Knit Dress – Ideal for easy, throw-on-and-go wear.
- M&S: Wedge Flatform Flip Flops – A great option if you want to sidestep the full jelly sandal look.
- GABRIELA HEARST: Shiva Gathered Cotton-Poplin Maxi Skirt – Pair with a white linen shirt and strappy sandals for the summer.
- Self-Portrait: Floral-Appliqué Satin Minidress in Blue – The appliqué flowers cascading down the back will sway beautifully as you move.
- With Nothing Underneath: The Boyfriend – You can never go wrong with a linen set in summer. Check out the coordinating Palazzo Trousers (£130).
2. Pausing: Waistcoats, Wearing: Peplum Tops
Style Notes: A few years ago, if you had asked me whether the peplum top, a favorite from the 2010s, would return, I would have firmly said "no." Yet as we move into summer 2026, this structured style has somehow found its way back onto the agenda. With endorsements from celebrities like Millie Bobby Brown, Taylor Swift, and Elsa Hosk (as seen above), its instant sophistication makes it the perfect candidate to replace the fitted waistcoats we’ve loved for so long.
Shop Peplum Tops:
- Hobbs: Bowes Ribbed Knitted Peplum Top
- Ganni: Peplum Blouse in Shibori Organza – Style it with black shorts and leather sandals.
- Autograph: Lace Collared Waisted Shirt – This piece could easily be mistaken for designer.
- LIBEROWE: Lavinia Cotton-Poplin Blouse – A unique silhouette.
- Róhe: Peplum Wool and Silk Top in Black – Róhe consistently impresses us.
3. Pausing: Oval Sunglasses, Wearing: '70s Specs
Style Notes: A maximalist summer is definitely taking form, and if you need proof, just look at the sunglasses trends. Reminiscent of the oversized sunglasses favored by Twiggy, Jane Birkin, and Jackie Kennedy-Onassis in the '60s and '70s, it’s no surprise that Chloé, the poster brand of the bohemian aesthetic, is championing this trend once again. With an undeniable retro charm, these sunnies complete the flowy blouses and draped balloon pants that are in vogue this season.
Shop '70s Sunnies:
- CELINE: Disc Sunglasses in Acetate
- Tom Ford: Annabelle Sunglasses – Even Tom Ford has reintroduced this Annabelle design.
- Chloé: Squared-Frame Acetate Sunglasses – The chicest choice for eye protection. If you wear glasses, prescription lenses can be added to this model.
- & Other Stories: Oversized Oval Frame Sunglasses –
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You might not agree, but fashion insiders say that these 7 summer fashion trends are officially "outdated."
A brief update for the season.
