5 Summer Micro Trends Our Fashion Editor Rates

Summer always feels more playful when it comes to fashion, when you’re free from the practicality of warm coats and cosy knits. So, to add some dopamine-inducing joy to your warm-weather looks, The Handbook’s Contributing Fashion & Lifestyle Editor, Astrid Carter, breaks down five summer micro-trends worth considering.

1. Bloomer shorts

Last summer we had bloomers; this year, bloomer shorts. Not for everyone – they can feel a bit toddler-esque – but there’s no denying they are everywhere. Pair with a preppy top, like the one Emmanuelle Koffi is wearing here, for a more relaxed vibe, or stick to a strict holiday wardrobe when you can be a little bit more playful.

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2. Bold stripe trousers

Stripes are a perennial favourite come summer, but this season they are unashamedly bold – from ASOS’s bright green and white denim to Anthropologie’s butter yellow hues. And a moment for La Veste’s iconic Pippa pant, now available in striped sequins: *chef’s kiss* with a simple ribbed white vest – they are firmly at the top of my wish list. Alternatively, you can opt for the same look with a shorter hemline by tapping into this season’s striped shorts trend.

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3. Tie-side white dresses

Little white dresses are nothing new come the warmer months, but this season, a slew of style influencers have been spotted wearing pretty, embroidered pieces with tie-sides. They are brilliantly wafty for torturous heatwaves, yet cool and boho layered over trousers. It’s a super versatile trend, one that will never date, and I personally think the best ones can be found trawling vintage stores and markets.

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4. New nautical

Fashion feels particularly irreverent this season, and I am loving the return to the cute, whimsical nautical trend. While a Breton stripe is always a staple, you can go the extra mile with charming sailor hats, striped shorts, and oversized collars – all in a classic palette of navy, blue, and white.

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5. Jelly heels

Granted, these aren’t for everyone, but I just think they are so fun. Last year, we saw a lot of jelly sandals and ballet flats, and they are still everywhere this season, proving they are a warm-weather trend with longevity. This summer, they’ve been elevated with a small heel thanks to Chloé’s almost Cinderella-style slippers (but in playful jelly). They have, of course, trickled down to the high street, with plenty of more affordable iterations available. Kurt Geiger’s blue wedge mules with this season’s capri pants feel particularly early Carrie Bradshaw coded.

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