5 Elegant, Timeless Summer Trends the Most Stylish Women In Their 30s and 50s Are Wearing This Summer

As a fashion editor in her 30s, my main fashion goal is to build a wardrobe that's ageless, with pieces I love standing the test of time. But with social media, micro trends, and what feels like a new style tribe emerging daily, it's easy to get swept along by the current, leaving you with a wardrobe that dates quickly and lacks cohesion.

The start of a new season, particularly summer, is a pivotal moment for our wardrobes as we pack away coats, jumpers and knitted accessories, replacing them with pieces we haven't worn in well over six months. The goal is that each year we bring our summer wardrobes out from depths of their hibernation hole safe in the knowledge that everything we've accrued over the years is still relevant and updated with minimal effort.

To achieve this requires some savvy shopping skills, investing in the trends that have staying power. My trick to achieving this is to look out for pieces that straddle several different style groups. The flip-flop trend is a perfect example - the sign that it's an ageless summer trend is the fact that you can spot it on everyone from maximalist to minimalist, bohemian to preppy. A summer wardrobe built on pieces like this ensures you'll always be on trend. Read on to discover five more summer trends that will help you build an ageless summer wardrobe.

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1. Polka Dot Dress

Style Notes: Polka dot is one of those prints that shows up consistently from season to season. There may be subtle variations such as colourways and size, but you can feel safe knowing that the polka dot pieces in your wardrobe will never date. A dress in this print will surpass all others because of how many boxes it ticks. Dress up with heels and a clutch bag, down with sandals and a tote, and wear to everything from weddings to coffee with friends.

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2. Barrel-Leg Trousers

Style Notes: It's not very often that a statement silhouette trend breaks the mould and becomes a staple shape in everyone's wardrobe, especially in the trouser department. Barrel-leg trousers, however, seem to have appealed to us on a level we haven't seen since the wide-leg. A cut that works for every shape, size and style means these aren't going anywhere.

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3. Column Skirt

Style Notes: I see a column skirt as the straight-leg jeans of the skirt world. It's a minimal silhouette that strikes the perfect balance between smart and casual while working effortlessly with a wide range of top and shoe options, making it one of the most hard-working, ageless pieces you can own.

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4. Cotton Bermuda Shorts

Style Notes: Very much like barrel-legs, Bermuda shorts have really proven their worth this season. While the denim style doesn't quite cover as many bases, cotton Bermuda shorts are filling a void our wardrobes have been missing for decades, and will continue to do so for years to come. The length and cut compliments a range of body types, while breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen means they can handle the role of a wardrobe staple.

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5. Thong Sandals

Style Notes: I think this may be the most universal shoe to have ever existed. When the trend first emerged I was doubtful (if you're a hater of rubber flip-flops you probably felt the same), but the stunning leather, suede, even jelly versions, that have popped up this season and the endless styling possibilities has changed my mind. I think every wardrobe should include at least one pair of these, and without a doubt they will be the most worn item you own.

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