Summer 2021 is off to a positive start as we begin to venture out and get our wardrobes into shape [1]. That means there are certain trends at the top of our shopping list [2], and they all emit statement-making, go-get-'em energy. The silhouettes we're collecting include miniskirts, floaty parachute dresses, and cargo pants with exposed pockets that are a nice complement to the crop tops [3], halters, and polos we'll wear them with. As far as accessories go, we're all about collecting beaded necklaces from kitschy jewellery brands we're discovering on Instagram, and working silk printed scarves into our outfits to tap into our retro side. Ahead, you can feel free to jump to the category you're excited about this season, or scroll through our full lineup of need-now pieces [4].
- Miniskirts
- Gingham
- Crop Tops
- Polos
- Loafers
- Parachute Dresses
- Beaded Necklaces
- Lightweight Cargos
- Silk Scarves
- Halters
Miniskirts
The return of the miniskirt brings some of our favourite flirty summer outfits yet. Whether it's a pleated skater skirt (or tennis skirt [5]) you're after, something vibrantly printed and bodyconscious, or a tailored mini that's part of a set, allow your legs some vitamin D.
Our Pick
Los Angeles Apparel Tennis Skirt [6] ($50)
Our Pick
Djerf Avenue Popsicle Skirt [7] ($99)
Gingham
Forever a popular print in the spring and summer — during the months we like to be reminded of picnic blankets — gingham is a mood booster. This year, you have every reason to wear it from head to toe and go all out in a monochrome set.
Our Pick
Wray Josephine Dress in Parrot Check [8] ($288)
Our Pick
H.O.W. We Are Adorbs Mini Yellow Gingham [9] ($78)
Crop Tops
All hail the return of the crop top! The It tee of the summer certainly bares some skin. If you like to reach for something supertrendy, go for a style with corseting or wire at the chest and wraparound straps, then wear it with a loose trouser. Alternatively, you can go the romantic route with pouf sleeves or keep it sleek and sporty in a muscle tank with cutouts.
Our Pick
Jacquemus Le T-Shirt Baci in Ecru [10] ($210)
Our Pick
Cult Gaia Gail Top [11] ($378)
Polos
Classic ribbed polo knits are better than your simple crewneck tee, simply because they lend your look a retro appeal, if only up top.
Our Pick
ASOS 4505 Curve Polo Bodysuit [12] ($23)
Our Pick
Goldie Slub + Jersey Polo Tee [13] ($125)
Loafers
Relax, you can still wear the sandals you invested in and let your toes breathe. But one of the biggest shoe trends of 2021 [14] is the loafer, and it's proving it has staying power in the summer, too. Where you'd normally reach for sneakers or something strappy, try drawing attention downward with a classic loafer and sock combination [15]. Minidresses and cropped pants or shorts are your perfect complement.
Our Pick
Zara Low Heel Lug Sole Loafers [16] ($60)
Our Pick
Molly & Reese x Nomasei Nono Mocassin [17] ($410)
Parachute Dresses
While 2021's summer dresses [18] have details that run the gamut from smocked bodices to pouf sleeves, there's one consistent look you'll see again and again: oversize. This loose-fitting, unstructured silhouette makes for the perfect nap dress.
Our Pick
FARM Rio Dream Garden Midi Dress [19] ($240)
Our Pick
Studio Cut Oversize Jacquard Dress [20] ($310)
Beaded Necklaces
In keeping with the camp theme [21] carried over from 2020, we're layering quirky, kitschy beaded necklaces and keeping them on with our beachwear. Even though you might not have strung these charms together yourself, they do showcase your personality, so choose your baubles wisely.
Our Pick
Missoma Short Beaded Gemstone Necklace [22] ($180)
Our Pick
Notte Jewellery Super Bloom Candy Pearl Necklace [23] ($132)
Lightweight Cargos
A pant trend? For summer? OK, that's actually pretty groundbreaking. Loose, live-in cargos with exposed pockets are offered in lightweight fabrics like linen and nylon for partnering with those cropped halters and tube tops from the early aughts. We can feel Gwen Stefani [24]'s pride from here.
Our Pick
Sundarbay Nude Vegan Leather Pocket Pants [25] ($194)
Our Pick
ASOS Design Curve Pleat Front Chino With Cargo Pockets in Sage [26] ($40)
Silk Scarves
Whether you prefer to work your statement piece into your hair or fold it and tie it around your neck, you must secure a standout pattern that's in keeping with the tone of your wardrobe. Blame it on Olivia Rodrigo [27], who wears a silk printed head scarf around her head for the Sour album art (containing all of our anthems for the summer).
Our Pick
The Kelly by Manner Market [28] ($55)
Our Pick
Zara Floral Silk Scarf [29] ($46)
Halters
A halter silhouette definitely takes us back to the '90s, whether in dress or top form, and it allows for a major shoulder-baring moment if that's your vibe. While you can opt for thicker fabrics, we're also seeing plenty of floss style halter tops that are great for minimalists.
Our Pick
Intimately 100 Ways Convertible Bralette [30] ($48)
Our Pick
Amalfii Boa Vista Crochet Top [31] ($35)
