We're Calling It: These 7 Cool Girl Trends Will Define Summer 2026
We’re no gatekeepers.
Fashion is moving away from perfectly minimalist style—and it’s more exciting because of it. Instead of an all-neutral ensemble, cool girls are blending bold colors, exciting textures, and unconventional silhouettes to create double-take-worthy looks. During the hottest months of the year, this experimentation ramps up tenfold thanks to forgiving weather, leading to a slew of summer style trends that inject dopamine right into your wardrobe.
Cultural moments like the World Cup and a return to nostalgic aesthetics are directly influencing this shift. Living in New York City, I can’t walk three blocks without spotting at least two sports jerseys. Not to mention, Y2K-inspired running shorts are flooding Central Park. And the vintage-inspired nightgowns reserved for the bedroom? They’ve officially been given the green light to step onto sidewalks and into restaurants.
The cool girl summer fashion trends of 2026 aren’t for the faint of heart, requiring a daring choice to step outside of the clean, understated mold we’ve been accustomed to. But that’s exactly what fashion is about: taking a risk, trying something new, and maybe even falling in love with the unexpected. If you’re ready, keep scrolling for major outfit inspiration.
Sleep Dresses
If you’re like me, you hit the snooze button one too many times. Thankfully, this sleepy dress trend is anything but tired. The babydoll silhouette is reminiscent of Oliva Rodrigo’s latest album style, channeling feelings of whimsy and innocence. The trick to making it not look like you just rolled out of bed? Elevated shoes and an intentional bag choice.
Sports Jerseys
Per Pinterest's Summer 2026 Trend Report: From Sports to Street Style, searches for World Cup jerseys have skyrocketed by 840%. Considering this is a sporting event that spans, well, the world, it’s no surprise that the fanfare has surged. But even if you’re not a soccer (or football) fan per se, the jersey trend is for everyone, offering an unorthodox approach to high-fashion dressing.
Fun Fringe
Fringe is back, but this time it’s less Western-bohemian and more sleek and elevated. Long tassels are showing up on everything from handbags to shirts, highly favored for their vacation-ready appeal.
Running Shorts
The ‘80s called; they’re thrilled the mini running shorts survived. Typically accented with side stripes and split hems, the stretchy shorts are an upgraded take on athleisure. While they’re perfect for a quick jog around the block, pairing them with kitten heels à la Carrie Bradshaw makes it feel deliberate.
Fish Necklaces
Something seems fishy—and it’s definitely the aquatic necklaces. Sardine-girl summer isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, with fish charms dangling around everyone’s neck. It’s a quirky trend, ideal for a season full of ocean-side activities.
Jelly Heels
You’ve heard of jelly flats, but have you slipped into gelatinous heels yet? Chloé paraded a playful, open-toe silhouette down its Spring/Summer 2026 runway—and I’m shocked some of the gummy-bear pairs are still available to shop.
Silk Pants
Perhaps one of the simplest trends to try this summer is silk pants. The swishy bottoms feel like comfortable sweats while looking like elevated trousers, delivering a billowy silhouette made for everything from resort lounging to running errands.
