6 Summer Style Fads That Aren't Worth the Money—and What a Fashion Writer Says You Should Wear Instead

Travel + Leisure

01-08-2025

This summer has brought so many fun trends. From nostalgic polka dot skirts to mesh ballet flats that require a pedicure, I've been thoroughly enjoying the return of fun to fashion—from afar. While I love many of the latest trends, it's just not practical to invest in them all, especially when I know they will be out of style within a year.
Although I'm still drawing inspiration from new fads, I'm leaving the overly saturated, niche iterations behind in place of more timeless pieces.
To save your seasonal wardrobe—and your wallet—I'm sharing the six trends you should skip this summer, plus what to wear instead. These classic alternatives will still make you look fashionable, but I'm willing to bet they'll stay in your closet much longer than microtrends will. Shop retro sneakers, timeless jeans, and more of my favorite styles, with picks from top brands like Madewell, J.Crew, and Levi's. Instead of Polka Dots, Buy Madewell Striped Mini Skirt, $70 (originally $98)
Madewell Striped Mini Skirt, $70 (originally $98) Instead of Barrel Jeans, Buy Levi's 501 '90s Straight-leg Ankle Jeans, $98
Levi's 501 '90s Straight-leg Ankle Jeans, $98 Instead of Bloomers, Buy J.Crew Stratus Lace-trim Satin Shorts, $67 with code SHOPSALE (originally $148)
J.Crew Stratus Lace-trim Satin Shorts, $67 with code SHOPSALE (originally $148) Instead of Mesh Flats, Buy Dsevht Crochet Ballet Flats, $50
Dsevht Crochet Ballet Flats, $50 Instead of Sneaker Mary Janes, Buy Puma Speedcat OG Sneaker, $100
Puma Speedcat OG Sneaker, $100 Instead of Toe-ring Sandals, Buy Wnshonzy Metal Hardware Flip-flops. $45
From satin skirts to sweet midi dresses, polka dots are the biggest print of the season. The nostalgic style adds a feminine touch to any outfit, and I've loved seeing it paired with more masculine pieces. I have a polka dot skirt myself, but I have a feeling it will burn out quickly. So now, I have my eye on more unique prints that will set me apart from the crowd—and last at least a few years.
From the gorgeous, earthy stripe on Madewell's mini skirt to a romantic floral print on Belle Poque's midi dress, these designs will put a unique spin on any outfit, without looking unfashionable in less than a year.
Barrel jeans are turning out to be the most divisive denim style since skinny jeans. They've been around for a couple of years, and yet, they still haven't been widely accepted. If you aren't game for facing some serious style criticism, opt for a wide-leg or relaxed, tapered jean that's just as fashionable.
These silhouettes are the new classics, and I'm quite sure they're here to stay. Shop my favorites from just $39, below.
It's rare for me to come across a trend I can't get behind, but I'm struggling to support the bloomers trend. Instead, I'm eyeing satin and eyelet shorts that feel just as feminine without looking costumey.
Whether you splurge on the Reformation Fern Satin Shorts or dare to wear the $13 Ekouaer Satin Pajama Shorts in daylight, satin styles are so much more timeless than bloomers—and fashion people are starting to wear them in lieu of more traditional short styles. Eyelet shorts are another more versatile option that still exudes plenty of style; try these eyelet shorts from Madewell that can be dressed up or down and are on sale for just $47.
Last year, I spotted mesh flats on a select few of the most fashionable of New Yorkers. This year, they're everywhere. I'm predicting that by next year, we are all going to hate the trend, and resale shops will fill to the brim with the discarded mesh flats we've grown tired of.
Instead, I found unique ballet flats that are so much better. If you still want to show some skin, the Dsevht Crochet Ballet Flats are a great choice (and will make you look so in-the-know). Shopping for something truly timeless? The red Dream Pairs Ballet Flats make a statement, and they'll be in style for years. Shop even more of my top picks, below.
Low-profile sneakers and Mary Jane flats had an ultra-trendy baby, and it's the most polarizing shoe of the season. Whenever two trends come together to create a hybrid trend, I'm wary of its lifespan, but something tells me this one will be especially short-lived.
Instead of buying a pair of 'sneakerinas,' I recommended either buying sneakers or Mary Janes (or one of each!) that are just as cute and comfortable—but won't look dated in a year or two. In place of Puma's Speedcat Ballet Shoes, I'm opting for the original sneaker version that's just as trendy. Plus, I've found a Mary Jane mule that's just as unique, and it comes from one of the comfiest shoe brands around. Keep scrolling to discover your new staple shoe.
I can't deny it: I'm obsessed with toe-ring sandals. My favorite pairs feature metal detailing on the toe loop, resulting in an elevated yet laid-back look. As much as I love the trend, however, I've been holding back on purchasing a pair for myself. In all honesty, I don't think I'll be pulling these sandals out of my closet to wear next summer.
While the toe-ring style may die out soon, I'm predicting that metal hardware is here to stay. I found four gorgeous pairs of sandals with statement hardware, including flip-flops, gladiator sandals, and travel-ready slides. These pairs are versatile enough to dress up or down, and I'm willing to bet you'll be wearing them for years to come.
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