I'm a Gen Z Editor—6 Summer Trends I'm Buying During the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

Do you hear that in the distance? It's our editors practically all pulling out their credit cards at once. That's right—the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is finally here, and as expected, we've already collectively spent hundreds of dollars.
As a Gen Z editor (and one of the youngest at Who What Wear!), I know a thing or two about what trends fashion people between the ages of 18 and 25 are obsessed with. Whether I see them IRL during a "research trip" (aka dillydallying) in the Lower East Side or via my TikTok algorithm, there are six summer trends already taking over my brain and online cart this summer.
From classic ballet flats to ultra-baggy Gen Z–approved jeans, these six Gen Z summer trends are the moment right now, and thanks to Nordstrom, they're all deeply discounted during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Run—don't walk—to get them before they sell out.
Colorful Sneakers
A fun, sporty pop of color will instantly elevate any outfit, according to Gen Zer. Just look at all of the trending sneakers over the last year and a half if it's any indication of the bright, in-your-face sneakers we love.
Maxi Skirts
Personally, there's nothing more Gen Z than a flowy maxi skirt. Whether it's a slip skirt, denim, or a cargo look, we're all about this summer staple. Wear with your favorite white tank of choice to let the skirt do all the talking.
Wide-Leg Jeans
Everyone I know wears wide-leg jeans—Gen Z included. Big pants + short shirt are how my friends and I dress off-hours, so it's no surprise that Nordstrom took note and discounted a ton of oversize denim styles for the Anniversary Sale.
Ballet Flats
Is there anything easier than ballet flats? Gen Z doesn't seem to think so. This slip-on style goes so well with miniskirts, jeans, and anything in between. It's no wonder this French-inspired shoe silhouette is some of the first to sell out when discounts hit.
Elevated Basics

Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.
-
A Tropical Vacation Is on the Cards—Here's What's in My Revolve, H&M, and Nordstrom Carts
For your next beach trip.
-
PTO Is Calling—35 Revolve, J.Crew, and Nordstrom Items I'd Wear on Vacation
Shop top picks for building your dream vacation wardrobe.
-
I'm a Shopping Director—10 Spring and Summer Items My Stylish Mom and I Think Are Wildly Chic
From elevated basics to designer accessories.
-
Save the Earth, But Make It Fashion: Gen Z's Secondhand Shopping, Explained
Read our full secondhand report.
-
Sorry to My Basket Bag, But These Accessories Are Going to Be Big in Europe This Summer
So chic.
-
Only You and I Will Know These 29 Items Came From Zara
I won't tell if you don't.
-
I Finally Got Around to Creating My Annual Spring Shopbop Wish List—You're Welcome
Enjoy.
-
I Called the Cuffed Jeans Trend—7 Shoes Fashion People Are Wearing With the Chic Denim Style
Style the jeans like a fashion person.