You May Disagree, But These 7 Summer Fashion Trends Are Officially "Dated" According to Fashion Insiders

As someone who swears by the carefully curated art of a balanced capsule wardrobe, the term “dated” is one I hold with little weight. You see, I (and all of the other editors here at Who What Wear UK) believe that regardless of your price point, once you've invested well, the pieces in your rotation should withstand fashion's ever-changing zeitgeist). But with that being said, sometimes a swap (or two) is needed to make your staples feel slight more current, and in a time where fashion's cyclical nature is more felt than ever, its an unfortunate fact that sometimes the pieces we've loved for years, suddenly lose their appeal.

However, consolation can be found in the smallest way. As nostalgia continues to dominate the trendsphere, many 'dated' styles have managed to make their way back. Be it the iconic Isabel Marant Beckett Wedge of the ‘2010s, or the ‘60s capri (formally known as the pedal pusher), and even the Y2K jelly sandal. Each of these once written off pieces has found its way back into the rotation of fashion's most pristine dressers ahead of summer.

So, what does this mean for the fashion trends of 2026? Well, the answer is simple. Having taken a gander at the spring/summer runways and perused the social media feeds of the chicest dressers on the app, the trends they’re leaning towards aren’t too different from those of yesteryear. Think buttery yellow hues swapped for fresh cornflower blue, or ditsy florals replaced with prim polka dots. Want to know what's worth pausing and what's worth picking up? I've rounded up the 7 trends fashion insiders are swapping "dated" styles out for in summer 2026. Scroll to see more.

1. Pausing: Butter Yellow, Wearing: Cornflower Blue

Style Notes: Off the back of the vibrant turquoise satin that cropped up this spring, cornflower blue has emerged as the shade of favour in 2026. Blending natural serenity with refined elegance, this soft shade balances a punch of personality whilst paring well with the pared-back neutrals. Rendered in everything from silky satin dresses to pretty wedge flip-flops, this hue will make you feel just as relaxed as the weather itself.

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2. Pausing: Waistcoats, Wearing: Peplum Tops

Style Notes: Had you asked me a few years ago if the 2010’s peplum top would ever make its way back, the answer would be a firm no. Yet as we journey into summer, this structured hem has made its way back onto the agenda once again. Garnering celebrity approval from Millie Bonnie Bongiov, Taylor Swift and Elsa Hosk (pcitured above), its ultra-”feminine” allure and instant polish make it primed to replace the fitted waistcoats we’ve adored for years.

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3. Pausing: Oval Sunglasses, Wearing: '70s Specs

Style Notes: A maximalist summer is well and truly taking shape, and if you need any further proof, just take a look at the specs. Reminiscent of the supersized sunnies favoured by Twiggy, Jane Birkin and Jackie Kennedy-Onassis in the ‘60s and ‘70s, it makes sense that the arbiters of the bohemian aesthetic, Chloe, are spearheading the trend once more. With an inherent retro appeal, these are the perfect finishing touch to the billowing blouses and draped balloon pants we’ve all come to know and love this season.

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4. Pausing: Silk, Wearing: Taffeta

Style Notes: Let me start off by saying that satin trousers will always be chic. But, if you’re looking for a seasonal update, why not try giving taffeta a swing? A lightweight woven fabric carries the polished sheen we adore about satin, just with a little more structure. Often found in vibrant hues, fashion people are opting for the fabric in short dress and skirt forms to deliver the same outfit-making impact, just with a fresh season twist.

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5. Pausing: Floral Dresses, Wearing: Polka Dot

Style Notes: On the cusp of transitioning from trend to capsule wardrobe staple, polka dot dresses are the gift that keeps on giving come summer. Striking the perfect balance between timeless elegance and playful, personality-led joy, the ‘80s signature loved by the peoples Princess (and recreated by Princess Kate Middleton), has carved a fresh, new path. Found in linens, satins and classic cotton, each iteration maintains its regal sophistication but with a carefree ease. Plus, they pair well with loafers, sandals and flip-flops too, making this is the most versatile print on the market.

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6. Pausing: Denim Shorts, Wearing: Sport Shorts

Style Notes: We called it—vintage-inspired athleisure is having a moment. (Think kitsch ‘2000s activewear, or the windbreakers transition from hiking gear to fashion-forward staple). But, it's the sports short taking over in summer 2026. Whether layered over longer shorts or paired with a shirt and tie in a Harry Styles Dance No More homage, there’s more to dolphin shorts than their initial running and basketball roots. Light, breezy and most importantly, fun to wear they add a ironically modern feel to fitted tanks and apron tops.

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7. Pausing: Leopard Print, Wearing: Zebra Print

Style Notes: Last year was full of prints, but as summer approaches, only one is the choice of fashion-forward dressers: zebra. Its striking black-and-white contrast offers a bold alternative to classic animal print, but somehow manages to balance high-impact style with surprising neutrality. Pairing well with bold colours, muted tones and simple denim, it's a fail-safe way to update your look into with 2026 energy.

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