I Always Screenshot Fashion Recs From These Insiders, so I Asked Them to Share Their Summer Shopping Lists

If you're anything like this editor, you probably look forward to summer holidays to see the destinations people are traveling to and the items landing in their suitcases for vacation. I find both equally inspiring, but the outfits fashion-industry veterans are wearing always have a big impact on how I'm getting dressed. With the summer months nearly upon us, I was curious to get a preview of the pieces and trends insiders will be wearing this season.

Ahead, some of the best dressed people in fashion are sharing a sneak peek at the cool brands, summer trends, and exact pieces they will be wearing everywhere, from beach holidays to hot days in the city. According to their picks, tassel necklaces, lace-trimmed satin separates, and jelly sandals are just a few standout trends that will be taking over summer fashion—shop all of their finds here.

Sara Walker, Fashion Consultant, Content Creator, and Stylist

Sara Walker wearing a tan trench coat over an all black outfit.

(Image credit: @styledsara)

"My approach to summer 2025 dressing is all about effortless polish with a playful edge. I'm leaning into pieces that are easy yet elevated—think breezy tailoring, sheer layers, and bold prints that do the talking. I'm especially inspired by '90s minimalism reimagined with a modern twist: sheer knits, sculptural silhouettes, and vibrant pops of color that keep things feeling fresh and intentional. While I'll always love a sleek, monochromatic moment, I'm also embracing a colorful, print-happy summer, channeling the energy of Missoni and Pucci in a big way.

"Brand-wise, I'm mixing high and low. I love The Row, Toteme, and Massimo Dutti for their clean lines and elevated basics, while Pucci, Mango, and Zara are absolutely nailing maximalism. I basically live in Reformation's linen pieces all summer—they're my warm-weather staples. I love mixing high and low as well as adding a statement or unexpected piece to an otherwise very classic and simple outfit. I am majorly drawn to anything polka dot, striped, orange, yellow, and animal print this summer.

"I'm constantly looking to designers like Jacquemus, who plays so beautifully with proportion and playful silhouettes, and Chloé, who masters that effortless boho-chic sensibility that feels just right for summer for inspiration. Lastly, I love a bold necklace for this summer. I have been wearing my Juju Vera necklace since last November, but I think statement necklaces, especially tassel details, will be relevant these next few months."

Julia Rabinowitsch, Founder of The Millennial Decorator

Julia Rabinowitsch wearing a white embellished maxi dress.

(Image credit: @themillennialdecorator)

"To theme, my inspiration for this summer revolves around vintage dressing, specifically vintage silks and sleepwear worn as casualwear—a breezy dress, lace shirts, or a lace-trimmed top—silhouettes and pieces that take inspiration from the vintage sleepwear ethos of simple but sophisticated dressing. To me, this summer is about comfort and pattern and styles [that] feel luxe and refined yet casual and breezy. Some brands I am loving at the moment for this are Dôen, Reformation, Intimissimi, and J.Crew."

Ilana Torbiner, Stylist and Substack Writer

Ilana Torbiner wearing a black halter dress.

(Image credit: @ilanatorbiner)

"I gravitate toward more feminine silhouettes in the summer, more romantic touches like lace trims and embroidery. Texture is always big for me, no matter the season. Loretta Caponi, Dôen, Posse, Matteau, and Bode do a great job of this without feeling too sweet."

Julia, Stylist and Founder of @takethetoysfromtheboys

Outfit collage.

(Image credit: @takethetoysfromtheboys)

"This summer, I'm gravitating toward light, flowing silhouettes. Think oversize shirts and kaftan-adjacent pieces that keep you cool while navigating city heat. Inspired by Allison Bornstein's 'mermaid mother' vibe and the effortlessly undone hair from Prada's runway, I'm embracing a clean, relaxed base and using accessories to create contrast.

"Raffia is back (though, arguably, it never really left), and thanks to The Row, we're seeing fresh ways to style it. Call it seasonal, but I consider it an investment. For a pop of color, I'm all about playful sandals: [classic Havaianas], a suede A.Emery Kinto, or a jelly moment from Ancient Greek Sandals.

"To bring it all together, a pendant necklace is essential. I've always loved Elsa Peretti's designs for Tiffany—let's add some Bone Cuffs while we're here—but there are stunning modern options too. Juju Vera pieces are everywhere, Sophie Buhai's perfume-bottle necklace is a standout, and The Ysso Venus pendant (a recent gift) brings that subtle beach energy to everything I wear."

Associate Director, Special Projects

Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear where she oversees luxury, runway content, and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, and Tiffany & Co., and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.