The 5 Biggest Outfit Trends of Summer 2021 Have Arrived

While the last year in fashion has largely been defined by comfort dressing, the fashion set is now returning to more directional looks as the world begins to reopen—and I’ve been paying close attention to the trendy summer outfits that are already emerging. I’m personally in need of some fresh inspiration for the new looks I’m wearing, and there is no shortage of cool ideas if you’re similarly wanting a dose of sartorial newness.

Taking a glimpse at the fashion unfolding among the coolest insiders, I’ve already flagged a number of outfits that I want to test-drive myself that hit on the season’s biggest trends. Pieces like oversize button-downs, crochet tops, and shorts sets are among the key buys this season, but the cool factor really comes down to some essential styling tricks. Ahead, let’s dive into the trendy summer outfits that will be huge this season and all of the core pieces you'll need to try them out.

Ever since Kendall Jenner stepped out onto the streets of NYC wearing a white button-down and a pair of slouchy trousers from The Row, her exact outfit has served as inspiration for countless looks spotted on the fashion set.

One of the cool, cozy trends we’re seeing a lot of right now? Shorts sets. There are versions from practically every designer at the moment, so if you add one to your cart, you’ll want to make sure you have a bikini top to layer underneath.

Crochet has been really taking off this season, and I’m predicting that tops will be a huge trend for summer. Fashion people have been styling them with baggy denim pants or shorts and a great pair of sunglasses.

One of the standout looks on the S/S 21 runways was at Valentino, where a model wore an oversize bubblegum-pink collared shirt with micro shorts. Ever since, the colorful button-down has been one of the pieces defining fashion this season.

Denim-on-denim looks were one of the key trends on the F/W 21 runways, and insiders are clearly getting an early start on the look. Opt for a denim shirt or jacket and straight-leg jeans plus a cool bag and loafers.

Next, shop 25 cool fashion finds I'm obsessing over right now.