Hold the lace dresses—this summer's most beautiful top trend will enhance your skirts and jeans.
When everything else seems to go wrong, there’s comfort in knowing that you can rely on a few elevated basics to create a summer outfit that is both stylish and effortless. While trying out new trends—like red-and-black flip-flops or balloon shorts—can inject some freshness into your wardrobe, leaning on a few essential staples can spare you the frustration of looking into your closet and struggling to put together an outfit you’ll feel confident and comfortable in. Nevertheless, there are some rare pieces that manage to find the perfect mix of timelessness and trendiness. Items such as capri pants or jelly sandals may be scarce, but they still add a modern twist to your looks despite their classic roots.
As I begin planning my upcoming summer trips, I’ve focused on the best-dressed individuals in the destinations I plan to visit in the coming months. It’s along the warm coastlines of the Greek Islands and within the historic towns of the Balearic Islands that I’ve noted an unexpected trend. Yes, it can certainly be seen as one of those magical pieces that feels both familiar and innovative.
What I’ve noticed is that the most influential tastemakers are frequently packing bib tops for their travels. Although the name might put some people off, we must remember we’re in a time where sporting lingerie as outerwear is a way to gain cultural recognition. Especially when styled like something a young French dauphin might wear to sleep in the 17th century (think: bloomers). Bib tops take on a more Victorian style, featuring lace trims and airy ruffles tied at the waist. This waist-tie detail is essential to the name, especially considering the sharp criticism often directed at perceived childish summer fashions, such as the babydoll dress worn by Olivia Rodrigo a few weeks prior. However, there’s no need for alarm; the bib top is much more fluid and ethereal than any child’s bib could ever be.
This trend represents an evolution of the apron top style, prominently featured in Miu Miu’s spring/summer 2026 collection and Chloé’s fall/winter 2026 showcase. Miuccia Prada, for her part, utilized this silhouette to challenge the concept of uniformity, designing a line influenced by late 20th-century female factory workers. In contrast, the bib top trend is a more delicate take on the industrial and functional style Miu Miu presented last September. As London-based influencer Lucy Williams described it, the look embodies “Miss Havisham does a Shirley Valentine and lives happily ever after.”
Long and airy, this trend pairs beautifully with playful shorts for soaking up the sun in the Mediterranean or over jeans when exploring the cosmopolitan streets of Marylebone closer to home. So, if you want to appear as if you’ve just returned from your dream vacation without leaving town, embrace the lovely top trend that’s gradually captivating everyone.
**Shop the Bib Top Trend:**
**DÔEN**
*Aphra Crochet-Trimmed Ramie Top*
Naturally, this silhouette is a Dôen hallmark, so it’s no surprise that the brand excels in this style.
**Free People**
*Loren Apron Maxi Top*
This ankle-length bib top perfectly embodies a warm summer vibe.
**M&S**
*Pure Cotton Lace Bib Detail Embroidered Top*
Chic and affordably priced—what’s not to admire?
This Sézane piece is designed for wear in the South of France.
**H&M**
*Broderie Anglaise Strappy Top*
The coordinating trousers are essential.
**SIR**
*Klara Broderie Anglaise Cotton Turtleneck Top*
A versatile set that can be styled in numerous ways.
**Reformation**
*Dario Linen Top*
Business in the front and elegance in the back.
**Muse Assembly**
*Etta Embroidered Lace Trim Top Co-Ord*
The embroidery adds a touch reminiscent of vintage doilies.
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Hold the lace dresses—this summer's most beautiful top trend will enhance your skirts and jeans.
A distinctly 2007 perspective on summer attire.
