Summer’s top trends golden hour and tropical fantasy capture the mood of the season: lightweight, breezy and effortless—with looks that deliver elegant versatility for spontaneous days and planned activities alike. Brands are betting big on bold tropical prints, warm neutrals, and crafted accessories that add an artisanal element to every look. Whether you gravitate towards color, eye-popping details, or timeless staples remixed with a modern twist, you are sure to find styles that speak to you.
When it’s 80 degrees out, creating looks that balance ease and polish can feel challenging but that’s where these trends and must-haves come in. From asymmetric styles to flowy tops, these pieces take the guesswork out of getting ready while delivering plenty of easy polish. Ahead, discover the trends and must-haves at prices you’ll love.
Golden hour glow
Like a warm sunset, the golden hour glow trend is defined by warmth and dreamlike wonder. “Inspired by a spirit of escapism, this trend transports you to the Mediterranean coast with embroidery, crochet, beading, and more crafted, bohemian touches,” says Macy’s Senior Trend Forecaster Paige Connell.
It’s summer reimagined in dreamy mesh bags, balloon bottoms, embellished slides, and sculptural jewelry. In other words: pieces made to stand out or add a “je ne sais quoi” to your everyday uniform. “I love the idea of mixing multiple textures in one look to really let your accessories flourish." adds Connell.
Like the feeling of being on vacation, the tropical fantasy trend transports you to dreamy places (while taking care of your packing). "This summer’s iteration amps up the glamour and otherworldliness of the mermaid aesthetic, which has come a long way from its social media roots,” says Connell. Indeed, you will feel transported in the variety of whimsical prints, sea motifs, and colorful jellies that make up the trend. It’s a more sophisticated evolution of the mermaid, designed to help you stand out in small impactful ways. “Cascading silhouettes and translucent accessories are key, while nods to mother of pearl bring that sea shine shimmer.” adds Connell.
Live out these trends in the following must-haves for her:
Linen
The elevated staple that’ll carry you from 9 am calls to 6pm cocktails, linen is an undefeated match for summer closets. This season features an array of styles from embroidered detailing to eye-catching prints, but you can also rely on your classic neutrals for everyday commutes, weekend playdates or casual hangs.
Embracing unexpected cuts, uneven details and sculptural shapes, the asymmetric fashion trend is bold and visually interesting. From scarf tops, handkerchief hems to one-shoulder dresses, these styles will make you look instantly put-together—minimal styling required.
Soft sheer tops, ruffles and draping – weightless fabrics with movement. With their breezy feel, they are perfect for staying cool in the city heat. Guaranteed to work hard in your wardrobe, you can wear a matching top and skirt together or wear your top partially buttoned over relaxed pants or tucked into jorts for everyday wear.
From woven bags to beaded sandals, tactile accessories are guaranteed to bring earthy sophistication to your summer look. They will go with everything from match sets to asymmetric dresses, making them a versatile purchase.
An easy way to zhuzh up your accessories game? Invest in layered necklaces. Understated yet undeniably chic, they will enhance your collection. Pair yours with slip dresses for a romantic date or dinner with the girls or layered under a button-down tucked in jeans for everyday wear.
Your new vacation staples have just landed. Jellies are not only playful but they’re also a smart choice for pool-related activities. Beyond getaways, these will pair well with denim shorts and tank tops for weekends or casual dresses for off-duty plans.
Designed to go with all your summer outfits, thong sandals combine minimal elegance with practical ease. The perfect choice for summer parties, they go with everything from lace-trimmed slip dresses and office-ready suits to statement swimwear and cover-ups when you’re on vacation.
Shelcy Joseph is a Brooklyn-based fashion writer and content creator with more than a decade of experience in social and editorial content. She leads editorial women's style content at Macy's and writes the newsletter Market Appointment. On her free time, she loves going to museums, watching documentaries and hosting dinner parties.
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