Whether you’re jetting off to the Med or picnicking in Regent’s Park, this summer’s fashion delivers on both comfort and confidence.
As the days stretch longer and the sun finally makes its return, summer 2025 promises a season of colourful expression and dopamine dressing.
With an emphasis on femininity and playful details, this summer’s trends reflect a spirited mix of vintage vibes and modern sensibilities, designed for effortless elegance and vibrant energy.
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Summer silhouettes and fruity prints
Justicia Ruano, womenswear design director at Mango, observes that this season marks a definitive return to intentional, expressive dressing. “Mango’s latest collection, featuring Kaia Gerber, captures that spirit beautifully,” she says. “The campaign draws inspiration from 1970s bohemia with fluid silhouettes and earthy tones, all of which speak to a generation that’s redefining what it means to be feminine on their own terms.”
At Nobody’s Child, CEO Jody Plows is embracing the season’s focus on simplicity and ease. “Summer 2025 is all about effortless elegance,” she shares. “Think playful prints, pastel hues and softly structured dresses that move with you.” Its Felicity bandeau dress remains a bestseller, alongside ruffle-trim jumpsuits, boho-style co-ords and embroidered summer dresses. The look is completed with breezy linen-blend sets and textured pieces like crochet and fringing that add a playful touch to any outfit.
Anica Wislawski, creative director at New Look, notes that this year’s patterns take inspiration from nature’s bounty. “Farmers’ markets are the muse — tomatoes, chillies, oranges and exotic fruits like papayas are making their way onto everything from skirts to shirts.” She adds that women are embracing bold prints, which contrast beautifully with traditionally feminine silhouettes, allowing for bold self-expression in even the simplest pieces.
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Milkmaid chic
This summer, the return of femininity is undeniable. Anica points out that milkmaid dresses — universally flattering — are everywhere, along with puffy sleeves and puffball skirts.
And while the Western trend, inspired by Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour, takes hold, expect to see cowboy boots, big belts and earthy tans emerging as popular choices.
The boho vibe, too, is making a comeback, with natural materials like lace and woven fabrics becoming staples in everyday wardrobes.
Summer knitwear, once reserved for colder months, has also been reinvented. “Light knit layers and vest tops are all the rage,” Anica explains. “It’s about building a relaxed, breathable look that still feels stylish.”
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Accessories that elevate
No summer outfit is complete without the right accessories, and 2025’s offerings are bold and playful.
Sunglasses, in particular, are poised to take centre stage. “Expect a rock ’n’ roll, 1970s vibe,” says Anica. “We’re seeing a lot of Alexa Chung-inspired frames at festivals this year.”
Headscarves are also making a comeback. Worn in the hair, tied around the neck like an ascot tie or draped over bags, these accessories elevate any outfit. “It’s all about adding that little personal touch,” says Anica. “Statement necklaces are in vogue — particularly those featuring shells. Gone are the days of dainty, minimalistic chains.”
When it comes to bags, bigger is definitely better. Anica recommends oversized wing bags in tan suede or leather, with materials like woven straw and baskets becoming key players in the accessory game. “It’s about embracing natural textures,” she says. “And nothing screams summer vibes quite like these breezy, earthy tones.”
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Statement shoes
Footwear this summer speaks to both nostalgia and a burst of modern flair.
Anica highlights the return of ballet flats: “Ballet pumps are everywhere, whether paired with a girlie dress or contrasted with oversized tees and shorts,” she says.
But the real shift this year is in the world of trainers. After years of dominance by white sneakers, vibrant coloured trainers — think bright pinks, greens and reds — are making a statement. “This year is all about joy, and colour plays a huge part in that,” Anica explains.
Feature image credit: New Look
