Emerging from a year of pent-up outfit frustration, we're embracing summer with a follow-your-bliss approach to getting dressed. That way of thinking is one shared by many of the industry's insiders, like the women behind the curated collection of designer goodies at Shopbop [1]. We asked both fashion director, Caroline Maguire, and CMO, Stephanie Nelson Roberson, about shopping summer's big trends [2], and their answers offered a decidedly 2021 perspective. Instead of investing in "what's trending", it's all about being comfortable, finding staples that work for you, and returning to seasonal favourites.
Feel-good fashion is top of mind for both industry vets, as it is for their customer. When we asked Stephanie what looks the Shopbop shopper is buying, she told us, "At the beginning of the pandemic, there was an immediate shift to cosy and comfort with sweats. Today, the Shopbop customer is ready to go out and get back to a 'normal' day to day life. They're focussed on vibrant items, garden party florals, high volume tops, easy slides, and bold jewellery."
Inside, we asked Caroline to break down her summer must-haves, that, again, are not so trend-driven. Instead, you'll find her picks are the kind you'll keep long after this one season and return to with excitement again and again. Read on to get inspired and shop your favourites.
Caroline Maguire, Shopbop Fashion Director
POPSUGAR: If you could buy just one piece for summer, what would it be?
Caroline Maguire: That is impossible as there are SO many pieces I am excited about this summer!!! The one I've invested in the most so far would have to be high volume dresses.
PS: What are the five biggest trends for summer?
Denim Shorts
CM: Denim shorts are the perfect staple for summer-friendly outfits that can be worn day to night with the switch of a shoe. If you don't have a pair, I highly recommend buying! This season, I will opt for a high waisted style, or longer length vintage cut-offs
Shop Caroline's Picks:
AGOLDE 90s Pinch Waist High Rise Straight Leg Shorts [3] ($148)
One Teaspoon Venice Streetwalkers High Waist 80s Shorts [4] ($118)
Transitional Dresses
CM: This summer I'm all about effortless and easy transitional dresses. Think tented styles and midi lengths — these silhouettes make for beautiful, wearable pieces that are perfect to wear out but also as a chic cover-up.
Shop Caroline's Picks:
Juliet Dunn Tie Shoulder Dress [5] ($333)
La Double J Short Paloma Dress [6] ($725)
Standout Sunglasses
CM: Splurge on a pair of standout sunnies. You'll wear them all summer long (and then some). Bold sunglasses are the perfect accessory to finalize your summer look.
Shop Caroline's Picks:
Isabel Marant Sunglasses [7] ($200)
Gucci Guillochet Plaque Sunglasses [8] ($505)
Slides
CM: Comfort is key this season so my go-to look this summer will definitely include a pair of no-hands-required slides. I love that the classic style got some major updates this season with fun embellishments and elevated footbed soles.
Shop Caroline's Picks:
STAUD
Rita Sandals [9] ($225)
Larroude
Cali Sandals [10] ($150)
Easy Tees
CM: Easy tees are the key to no-fuss summer dressing - bonus points if it has a fun graphic print!
Shop Caroline's Picks:
AMO Classic Tee
Good American Jersey V Neck Tee [12] ($45)
Stephanie Nelson Roberson, Shopbop CMO
PS: If you could buy just one piece for summer, what would it be?
SNR: I always opt for a gingham or polka dot dress for the warmer weather months — the prints scream "summer fun" and they feel nostalgic.
Gingham and Polka Dot Dresses
Shop Our Pick:
English Factory Gingham Print Midi Dress [13] ($110)