Trust Me, I'm a Fashion Expert—These 7 Subtle Summer Trends Are Slowly But Surely Dominating My Algorithms Now

Working in fashion and the social media arena means I am often glued to my phone. Whether that’s scrolling Instagram, Substack, or Pinterest (my trio of choice as, after all, I am a millennial), my phone is never far from reach. I daren’t track my screen time—I can only assume it’s at an all-time high. Despite this, the constant face in phone disposition does give me access to the latest, breaking trends that matter now, allowing me to make common threads of what’s in style today in fashion’s leading cities, such as New York, Paris, Copenhagen, and my home of London, all from the window of my smartphone.

All in all, the so-called trends I am personally picking up on are the kind where you really have to double-take. They are subtle, unassuming, and don’t dominate the rest of the wearer’s look. I’m talking acute changes in fabric, updates in cuts and silhouettes, vintage-feel moments being reworked for a contemporary feel—blink and you really will miss them. As someone who typically dresses in an anti-trend frame of mind, with a self-proclaimed eagle eye, it’s the little things that matter the most.

To spare you from scrolling further into the abyss of social media, I have collated seven wearable yet ultra chic trends I am spotting now, which I know will one day hit the mainstream. Browse and shop now to get ahead of the curve.

Broderie Anglaise Blouses

As temperatures rise, the need for an easy-breazy shirt or blouse increases. Broderie anglaise is the pretty fabric trend I'm seeing on blouses, shirts, and dresses, and gives a lightness and breathability to your outfit. This is not a trend to resign to your granny's sewing basket—this is the trend the minimalist's are getting behind now.

Silk Scarves

The accessory fashion-people have found a new home for. Once tied around handbag handles, worn as bandanas, or often as neck-ties, the silk scarf is now being adopted as a belt worn around the waist in a triangle formation. The key here is a silky material with a classic, vintage-feel pattern, to add a bit of visual interest to an otherwise simple modern look, à la Coco Schiffer.

Papery White Trousers

A trend I have seen emerge on the uptown style-setters of New York and now London, the white trouser is getting lighter and more delicate than ever in feather-weight cotton and silk constructions, akin to paper. This is the perfect solution for those seeking a modest option for summer, which will then pack well for hot vacations.

XXL Raffia Totes

Who can blame a person for wanting a bag that carries everything bar the kitchen sink, with a need of a hot summer holiday quicker than you can say the word 'raffia'? This big bag trend is exactly that, big. It's also reminiscent of quaint market stalls abroad. Get yours bagged now with my round-up of styles on the high street today, and swap out your laptop for your beach towel later on this summer.

Lace-Trimmed Dresses

We have much to thank The Row for. The enduring appeal of layering a lace slip, skirt or cami draped over trousers, jeans or paired with a light sweater over it still reigns supreme, thanks to Look 3 from their Spring 2025 collection. Fashion folks still swear buy this look even now as we head into summer. Pick a classic white cami style, or perhaps a colour option in an earthy hue for something pared back and minimal.

Mesh Ballet Flats

I'm typically a loafer, clog or sneaker wearer, but the rise and rise of mesh ballerina flats has got me second-guessing. Pairing so well with pretty, spring looks, and light enough to wear all day, these soft-as-a-feather shoes are city proof and weekend ready.

Heirloom Pendant Necklaces

I've noticed this trend crop up on the fash-pack who have minimal, pared back yet wealth-whispering style. That doesn't mean to say it is an exclusive trend for those in the upper echelons. The beauty of this trend lends itself to a vintage, DIY look and feel, which feel like modern heirlooms and treasures.