5 Summer Trends I’m Avoiding and the Anti-Trends I’m Embracing Instead

      Throughout the years, I have trained myself to resist the temptation of micro-trends. My attention has now completely shifted to investing in classic, foundational pieces—items that are certain to maintain their value and remain stylish. Although it has been a challenge, the effort has been rewarding because it has allowed me to save both money and time when getting dressed. I can count on the fact that my wardrobe consists of items that are not only "in" but also naturally complement each other, eliminating the daily struggle of outfit planning.

      With Memorial Day Weekend now over, signaling the beginning of summer, I am concentrating on warm-weather fashion and embracing an anti-trend mindset as I put together my wardrobe. My goal is to create a carefully curated collection of versatile, chic, and timeless items that will form the basis of my summer wardrobe. For example, while I find bloomer shorts adorable, which are suitable only for specific occasions, I am opting for polished and functional Bermuda shorts that easily transition from the office to social gatherings. This is just one illustration. Continue reading to discover the four summer trends I am avoiding and the four anti-trends I am opting for instead.

      **Skipping: Zipped Sweaters

      Wearing: Open-Weave Knits**

      When one thinks of summer attire, sweaters aren’t the first thing that comes to mind, yet they remain essential, particularly for cool mornings or breezy evenings. Since not all knits are created equally, I am being deliberate about the styles I choose this year. While I appreciate lightweight zip-up and open-weave sweaters, those with a relaxed scoop neck seem to be the more stylish option. This particular style was recently seen on Elsa Hosk, who paired it with low-rise Bermuda shorts and flip-flops for a casual outing in Los Angeles.

      **Shop the anti-trend:**

      - ZARA: Boat Neck Knit Jumper

      - Reformation: Elliot Boucle Crew

      - KHAITE: Davet Open-Knit Silk and Cotton-Blend Sweater

      - Bdg: Nola Cotton Blend Oversized Boatneck Sweater

      **Skipping: Bloomers

      Wearing: Bermuda Shorts**

      I find bloomer shorts quite charming, especially for vacations in places like Ibiza or Greece; however, when it comes to timeless summer shorts, Bermuda shorts are the way to go. The reason? They strike the perfect balance between polish and ease. This summer, instead of traditional trouser-like designs, I will gravitate towards modern variations featuring drawstrings or standard elastic waistbands, and materials like cotton, taffeta, or satin. For the most stylish options, check out COS and Reformation.

      **Shop the anti-trend:**

      - COS: Elasticated Grosgrain-Detail Cotton Shorts

      - THE ROW: Emiliano Cotton-Poplin Shorts

      - Modern Citizen: Arlo Cotton Bermuda Short

      **Skipping: Platform Slides

      Wearing: Sleek Flip-Flops**

      As a five-foot woman, you won’t often see me in flats—especially not in summer. However, on those rare occasions, the only style you’ll find on my feet would be flip-flops. Not just any flip-flops, though; I prefer elevated, minimalist designs characterized by sleek lines, muted tones, and a lack of logos.

      **Shop the anti-trend:**

      - TKEES: The Boyfriend Leather Flip Flop

      - Reformation: Jessie Thong Sandal

      - TOTEME: Croc-Effect Leather Flip Flops

      - Massimo Dutti: Mid-Heel Sandals With Toe Divider

      **Skipping: Cropped Tops

      Wearing: Romantic Sleeveless Blouses**

      Now is the time to showcase beautiful blouses. With so many stunning styles available ahead of the official start of summer, it can be easy to make a misstep and pick the wrong one or two. So, before making a purchase, consider, ‘Would Chemena Kamali from Chloé approve?’ This is the aesthetic fashion insiders aim for in 2026—airy, delicate, luxurious, nostalgic, soft, and slightly sultry.

      **Shop the anti-trend:**

      - Massimo Dutti: Asymmetric Roll Neck Top With Lace Detail

      - CHLOÉ: Ruffled Cotton-Poplin Top

      - Reformation: Eli Oversized Shirt

      **Skipping: Animal-Shaped Bags

      Wearing: Woven Totes**

      I appreciate fun pieces like animal-shaped bags. However, such items are very seasonal, and if you want to be—or at least appear to be—a savvy shopper, versatile accessories are essential in 2027. Take a straw or raffia bag, for instance. This classic item has recently proven its versatility, solidifying the necessity for every fashion-conscious individual to own at least one. Once seen merely at beaches and pools paired with swimwear and cover-ups, raffia tote bags, whether slouchy or structured, have found their way into