There are, in fact, trends that stand the test of time, but this summer, many trends haven't hit the timeless criteria. As fashion editors, it's our job to keep our fingers on the pulse of what's in and out each season. Now that we're finally in the promise of July's heat, we've taken note of all the trends that have fallen by the wayside. But don't worry; we've also discovered all the trends to wear instead.
That's not to say that these trends can't ever be worn again. We're all into wearing what you want at the end of the day. We're just here to inform you on the direction we're heading in terms of fashion. The trends we're over had their major moments but were fleeting nonetheless, from jelly shoes to polka dots. Keep scrolling to find the nine trends we're over for this summer and shop the ones we're wearing instead.
Audry Hiaoui, Associate Shopping Editor
Over: Minidresses | Wearing: Knee-Length Dresses
"Minidresses will never be out of style, but this summer, I'm reaching for other lengths, such as knee-length and midi. Especially with the heat in NYC, I'm looking for breathable, lightweight dresses made of natural materials."
Over: Bikini Bottoms | Wearing: Swim Shorts
"As for swimwear, I'm over regular bikini bottoms and loving different options like swim shorts, skorts, and even dresses."
Shop Audry's Picks
Sierra Mayhew, Editor
Over: Chunky Fisherman Platform Jelly Shoes | Wearing: Delicate Jelly Shoes
"Jelly shoes have been a divisive topic these past few summers, and it's taken me a while to come around, but I'm officially a convert… with one firm exception. The chunky fisherman platform styles that have dominated the past year or two will never grace my feet. They read as too bulky, too costumey, too much. What has stolen my heart? The dainty, barely-there sandal silhouettes rendered in jelly. Think delicate straps, a minimalist aesthetic, and that signature glossy finish. For summer 2026, they have me completely wrapped around their finger."
Shop Sierra's Picks
Ana Escalante, Associate Features Editor
Over: Polka Dots | Wearing: Stripes
"Polka-dot tops and skirts might be in my wardrobe due to last year's surge in the whimsical print trend, but this year, I've been gravitating toward stripes more than anything. Across my Instagram, I've noticed striped bikinis, lined terry-fiber shorts, and streaked jeans rising up among the ranks of fashion people. It might be a micro-trend flash in the pan, but hey, at least it's cute. It's an easy, no-brainer way to add color and fun back into my summer wardrobe."
Shop Ana's Picks
Allyson Payer, Senior Editor
Over: Bubble-Hem Skirts | Wearing: '90s-Inspired Knee-Length Skirts
"Bubble-hem miniskirts had their moment, and I gave the trend my best try, but I always felt kind of silly wearing one and had trouble finding tops to pair with it. The '90s-inspired knee-length skirts that are everywhere right now suit my classic aesthetic much better."
Shop Allyson's Picks
Anna LaPlaca, Senior Editor
Over: Slides | Wearing: Flip-Flops
"Easy flat sandals are a must in the summer, but in 2026, I'm pivoting away from slides in favor of flip-flops. I'm especially a fan of my A.Emery Kinto Sandals that feature an elevated leather finish and square-toe shape. They look so much more modern with white jeans or midi dresses than slides do."
Shop Anna's Picks
Nikki Chwatt, Associate Editor
Over: Barrel-Leg Bottoms | Wearing: Tailored Pants
"Barrel-leg jeans and trousers had a nice, long run, but this summer, I'm putting them to the side. Instead, I'll be prioritizing tailored pants, specifically slim-fitting bootcut jeans and capri trousers."
Over: Pendant Necklaces | Wearing: Chunky Beaded Necklaces
"Summer is the perfect time to accessorize, and my favorite way to do so is with jewelry, particularly fun necklaces. This year, instead of long necklaces featuring shell or tassel pendants—which have become very overdone—I plan to complete my warm-weather outfits with short beaded necklaces. I'm especially drawn to those with extra-large, supersized orbs and unique-colored beads or stones, such as tigereye or onyx."
Shop Nikki's Picks
Why Trust Us
At Who What Wear, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognizable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality, and real-world wearability.
We regularly try pieces ourselves, including everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes; speak to external experts and fashion insiders; and stay closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise and has to pass our exceptional taste levels, so you can feel confident in every recommendation.