Out of Every Major Trend I've Forecasted for Summer, These Are the 5 That Fashion People Will Still Be Wearing in 2027
From pretty florals to sporty separates, these are the five biggest trends that you'll want to wear this summer and beyond.
It may seem premature with spring only just having made an appearance, but I've been thinking about summer fashion for the past few months. At Who What Wear UK, it's our job to stay at least one season ahead to bring you the freshest trend news possible, but the transition between last winter and this spring has been slow to say the least. The good news, though, is that the weather is changing for the better, and this week, as I swapped my shoes for sandals, I sat down to look through the runways for what will be summer's next big trending moment.
Slightly chilly winds and overcast skies aside, the shops are starting to fill up with summer dresses, linen and cotton basics instead of cosy knits; a sure sign that summer is just around the corner. And although you may feel like you couldn't be further away from a high summer heatwave, it won't be long until we're all back in shorts and skirts and shivering through cold spells will be a distant memory.
Avid readers will know that we've already waxed lyrical about summer microtrends, summer shoes and how to build the best possible summer-ready capsule, but out of all the trends to hit the runways, which have true longevity?
From practical utility to the new florals, this summer boils down to five key aesthetics and the trends that fall within them. So whether you're a sleek minimalist or an expressive maximalist, there really is something for everyone in the mix. Ready to see the looks about to be everywhere for the next few months and beyond? Keep scrolling to see five summer fashion trends set to dominate the season in 2026.
5 Major Summer Fashion Trends You Need to Know in 2026
1. The Well-Travelled Explorer
Style Notes: Calling all adventurous style-seekers: spring/summer 2026's rugged mix of utility, cargo and khaki is all about fashion made functional—the grounded answer to last summer's boho renaissance. Safari for summer may not be groundbreaking, but it is the perfect companion to the funnel-neck jackets, balloon trousers and flannel shirts we've been wearing throughout spring. According to the runway, the high-summer heroes are cargo shorts and lots of leather belts (just ask Isabel Marant), but don't forget the power of layering basics like tank tops and sheer shirts that are the foundation for so many great utility looks.
Shop Cargo, Khaki and Utility:
As soon as I saw this, I had to have it. It's such a fun way to add a little colour to a jeans-and-sandals outfit.
The kind of fabric and cut that never go out of style.
These also come in green and gold, but the brown are my favourite.
Who hasn't fallen for this sculptural silhouette?
I have a feeling that this is about to be very popular with the street-style set.
DeMellier really does make bags in just about every chic colour you can think of.
2. The Retro Revivalist
Style Notes: If you were one of the people to snap up a technical jacket before the crowds, bravo. Not only are they bigger than ever this summer (and Saint Laurent's designer nylon jackets are currently waiting-list-only), but they'll be sticking around for the rest of the year too. Wondering what to wear with this throwback style? The runways are all about short-shorts and stripes, but you also have the option to dress this look up with strappy sandals or keep it casual with retro runners.
Shop Retro Athleisure:
This whole outfit feels so current.
You won't regret having a pair of relaxed shorts you can simply throw on.
Adidas always gets statement colours right.
I have this in pink and can confirm that it's deceptively roomy.
Currently top of my high-street wish list.
Swap out black shorts in favour of green for a vibrant boost of dopamine.
3. The Uptown Girl
Style Notes: Preppy, prim and polished to perfection, spring's ladylike trend evolves into the uptown girl; an equally "feminine", tailored take on warm-weather dressing. Immaculately turned out and never one to fall for buzzy microtrends, this look leans into the brighter colours of summer and clutches her metaphorical pearls slightly less than spring's buttoned-up version. Expect knee-length skirts, blouses and slingbacks this summer (with plenty of smart jackets and top-handle bags for evening). Consider this the wardrobe of the Park Avenue princess, both on and off-duty.
Shop Ladylike Dressing:
I'm tempted to take one of these in all four colours to wear with my straight-leg jeans.
Reformation is my go-to for slightly preppy "ladylike" clothes that feel romantic and never stuffy.
Just. So. Elegant.
If you haven't checked out Marks and Spencer's shoe section recently, I urge you to scroll through the new-in styles. You won't regret it.
Layer this up under shrunken cardigans now, and wear it open over tanks in summer.
There's something about capri trousers with a pair of sandals that says "Riviera".
4. The Power Dresser
Style Notes: Looking for something a little tougher than the uptown girl's ultra-feminine silhouette? The new power dressing is all about big pieces that mean big business and command power through boxy, oversized shapes that are unexpected for high summer. Take cues from the Bottega Veneta and Calvin Klein runways by pairing loose, undone shirts with sharp jackets and swapping bohemian maxi dresses for wide-leg linen trousers and maxi skirts that you can team with polished silk camis and sheer tops.
Shop Tailoring:
Honestly? My dream blazer. You could wear this for a lifetime and never get bored.
The high neck is so modern.
I always look for tailored trousers with enough slouch in the leg to slightly pool at the ankle.
This looks like it stepped straight off the runway.
The cinched waist and strong shoulders get a resounding "yes" from me.
5. The Prairie Queen
Style Notes: If your idea of spring/summer dressing revolves around paisley, fringing and oversized sunnies, you will have known your way around 2025's boho trend, but this summer is a softer and altogether sweeter take on seasonal whimsy. Prairie-inspired florals, blouses and full-skirted dresses are perfect for sun-soaked summers that call for easy outfits, and conjure up the feeling of slow days in the south of France. Jacquemus' Simon Porte is, of course, an expert in this, making handkerchief headscarves, cotton dresses and prim flats the European cool-girl's uniform, but when Calvin Klein, Christian Dior and Giambattista Valli took the look one step further with pastel and watercolour florals, the look became a certified trend well worth taking note of in 2026.
Shop Prairie:
Such dreamy details, such a beautifully simple blouse.
Imagine how good this would be with a white tank and brown sandals.
Silk headscarves are chic, but I'm looking out for lace and crochet this summer to update the look.
I will never not be excited to see a silk shorts and fine knit pairing.
This hugs and skims the body beautifully.
Dial up the retro charm by wearing this with capri leggings or cigarette trousers and a demi heel.
Everyone's favourite basket bag.
