Spiral Jewelry! Graphic T-Shirts! Neon Hues! 7 Fashion Trends Returning for Summer 2026
I've never been one to follow trends or the latest fads, always feeling that a classic, anti-trend wardrobe is more fitting for me. Yet, I must confess: this can grow a bit monotonous and repetitive, particularly during summer when I find myself wearing my black linen trousers and white tank tops repeatedly. So this season, I’ve decided to integrate several elevated yet elegant trends that will refresh my outfits a bit. After spending hours scrolling through my Instagram feed and conversing with my fellow Who What Wear UK editors in the office, it became evident that several trends once deemed “dated” are making a comeback this season. Although I recognize that trends constantly cycle, the few I’m eyeing for 2026 feel both wearable and timeless, ensuring I’ll be reaching for them for years. Fortunately, I've compiled them for you below. From spiral jewellery favored by style icons to fashionable wedge sandals, continue scrolling to explore the seven trends returning for summer 2026.
1. **Trapeze Dress**
**Style notes:** If you enjoy a simple, throw-on dress like I do, you'll be excited to learn that trapeze dresses are back in vogue. Comfortable, flattering, and effortlessly stylish, this dress can be paired with flat sandals and a raffia tote during the day, and switched to kitten heels and a statement clutch for summer nights out. Originally popularized in the 1960s, and resurfacing in the early 2020s, it’s evident that voluminous dressing is in style for summer 2026.
**Shop the Trend:**
- **Toteme**: Scoop Poplin Dress
- **next**: Maxi Length Trapeze Shape Ruched Neckline Thin Vest Strap Dress
- **LEMLEM**: Eda Cotton-Gauze Maxi Dress
2. **Wedge Flip-Flops**
**Style notes:** Flip-flops are making a comeback this year, moving away from the rubbery styles we remember from our youth. My preferred style? The ‘90s inspired wedges that were popular during the 90s and early Y2K period. However, the wedge designs leading the way in 2026 are much sleeker compared to the chunky, brightly colored styles we used to love.
**Shop the Trend:**
- **Reformation**: Jessie Wedge Thong
- **ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS**: Charys Suede Wedge Sandals
- **Gianvito Rossi**: Leather Wedge Thong Sandals
3. **Spiral Jewellery**
**Style notes:** Jewellery maximalism is officially back in for 2026! The spiral necklace, earrings, and rings remind us of the 2010s mermaidcore era and are particularly eye-catching. This trend is a simple yet effective way to elevate my otherwise classic outfits, feeling both fresh and timeless.
**Shop the Trend:**
- **REJINAPYO**: Swirl Chain Necklace Silver Plated
- **YSSO**: 1989 Sterling Silver Earrings
4. **Graphic Tee**
**Shop the Trend:** **Style notes:** If you regularly read Who What Wear UK, you would know our editors are huge fans of the graphic tees that trended in the mid-2000s. They serve as an effortless way to elevate jeans, skirts, or linen trousers, making them a go-to choice on casual days this summer and beyond.
- **Urban Outfitters**: Uo Have a Word Ref Relaxed T-Shirt
- **RIXO**: Ria Hand Painted Zodiac T-Shirt in White Virgo
5. **Bandana**
**Style notes:** I declare that the bandana is the must-have accessory for summer 2026. Much like in the 1970s and 2000s when bandanas were last popular, it’s all about vibrant colors and striking patterns that can enhance even the simplest outfits.
**Shop the Trend:**
- **Ralph Lauren**: Silk Twill Square Scarf
- **Gucci**: Printed Silk Twill Carré
6. **Neon**
**Style notes:** If you had asked me which trends I didn’t expect to return this season, neon would top the list. However, after years dominated by creams, beiges, and greys in the quiet luxury era, we all deserve a bit of excitement! I don’t plan to wear all my neon colors together, but I do intend to invest in a few separates that can bring playfulness to my outfits.
**Shop the Trend:**
- **Free People**: Sweet Point Seamless Cami
- **MELISSA ODABASH**: Abbie Relaxed-Fit Cotton Shorts
- **CHLOÉ**: Junie Pvc-Trimmed Satin Sandals
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Spiral Jewelry! Graphic T-Shirts! Neon Shades! 7 Fashion Trends Returning for Summer 2026
From spiral jewellery favored by it-girls to stylish wedged sandals, click here to explore seven trends that are returning for the summer of 2026.
Spiral Jewelry! Graphic T-Shirts! Neon Hues! 7 Fashion Trends Returning for Summer 2026
From spiral jewelry favored by it-girls to stylish wedged sandals, click here to explore the seven trends that are returning for summer 2026.