I'm a Gen Z Fashion Editor, and These Are the Summer Trends I'm Paying Attention To

As a Gen Z shopping editor, I pride myself on keeping up with what Gen Z is buying, what brands we love, and, of course, what trends we're following for the coming season. Every summer, we are bombarded with different aesthetic trends to opt into for the warmer months. From cottagecore to balletcore to tomato girl summer to quiet luxury, the trend options are practically endless. This summer, however, I am taking a much more intentional approach to which trends I participate it. I want this summer to be my chicest one yet, so when doing my research on which trends were popular for summer 2024, I made sure to pick my absolute favorites. I ended up with five chic summer trends that I am excited to dabble in myself and that I had to share with you.

Keep scrolling to see which five summer trends have my attention.

Mesh Flats

Ballet flats have been trending since 2023, but this is the summery evolution of them. Mesh and netted flats are 2024's It-girl flat shoes. Brands like The Row, Khaite, and Alaïa have all taken their stab at the trend, making it a huge hit with celebrities too. I know that the Alaïa fishnet ballerina flats can barely stay in stock—that's how badly people want to get their hands on these chic summer shoes. If investing in this trend isn't in your summer budget, don't worry. So many affordable shoe brands that we love, like Dolce Vita, Jeffrey Campbell, and Schutz, are creating their own versions.

All About Anklets

If you ask me, anklets are the must-have jewelry piece for the summer. I went to brunch the other day and forgot to put on my anklet, and I almost turned around to go grab one. They add such a stylish touch to sandals and ballet flats, and every time I wear one, I feel like it takes my outfit up a notch. Plus, they're compliment magnets and highlight a great pedicure. Jenny Bird recently launched a new collection of anklets, and I can't get enough of them. I've already bought three.

Butter Yellow

This summer is all about one pretty pastel color: butter yellow. All over my social media feeds, influencers, fashion people, and celebrities are draping themselves in this sunny hue, and I, for one, am obsessed with it. It has a certain relaxed and easy feel to it while still maintaining an air of luxury. Plus, it pairs well with more colors than you'd think. I know yellow may not be everyone's go-to when getting dressed, but I highly recommend giving this trendy shade a try.

Crochet Looks

This trend rolls back around every summer. Some may say it's dated, but to me, there is nothing that says "summer vacation" like a great crochet piece. I live in New York City, which is known for its extremely hot summers, so I'm into anything I can get my hands on that looks like clothes but doesn't feel like I'm wearing them.

Capri Pants

It's a capri girl summer. These shorter pants are at the top of everyone's summer shopping list for good reason. They have that '90s vibe that I'm always into. Plus, they're the perfect bottoms to wear in the summer that aren't linen pants or denim shorts. This trend is a huge hit with my fellow Who What Wear editors, and I think almost all of our New York office has a pair of these. I personally have been wearing mine at least once a week. If I were you, I would act fast. These pants are so popular all of the great ones will be sold out soon.