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7 Summer Trends We're Swerving and 7 Fresh Ones We're Wearing Instead

By Swedan Margen

7 Summer Trends We're Swerving and 7 Fresh Ones We're Wearing Instead

Now that summer feels like it’s finally settling in, I’ve found myself taking stock. Of the weather (at last, sandal-appropriate), of my wardrobe (now populated with white dresses and linen) and, inevitably, of the fashion trends that feel less relevant than they did last summer. It's not about calling anything "over" (we’ve all worn trends past their social media peak and loved them), but more about tuning into what feels fresh and what doesn’t quite spark our excitement anymore.

We’ve already explored the most noteworthy trends for summer 2025 but, as we step into the heart of the season, I thought it might be interesting to take the temperature of the fashion desk. What are we genuinely looking forward to wearing this summer and, conversely, which trends are quietly slipping off our radar.

The responses from my colleagues were considered and, at times, charmingly diplomatic. As editors, we try to stay open to the full fashion landscape—after all, what feels off to one person might feel totally fresh to another. But when it comes to personal style, we’re allowed to be a little picky.

What follows isn’t a list of hard "nos"; rather, it’s a gentle guide to the trends we’re individually passing on this season. There may be a few you still love (and I probably do too) and that’s the joy of fashion: it’s personal. If there are, then by all means continue to wear them! Still, if you’re curious to know which pieces aren’t quite passing the vibe check for summer 2025 amongst our editors—and which ones we're wearing instead—scroll on.

7 "Dated" Summer Trends Our Editors Aren't Into, and 6 They Are

1. Passing: Butterfly Tops

Wearing: Scarf Tops

Dated Summer Fashion Trends 2025

"Some things should be left in the early '00s and, in my opinion, the butterfly top is one of them. It's just one of those trends that always looks costumey no matter how you style it. The nostalgic scarf top, however, looks much chicer and loans itself more so to 2025. Picture one of the below with wide-leg linen trousers and strappy gold sandals and you're on my wavelength."—Hannah Almassi, Editor in Chief

Shop the Trend

Menno Scarf Abstract Dot Black

RIXO

Menno Scarf in Abstract Dot Black

This comes in a slew of colours and prints, but this abstract motif is the one I have my eye on.

4th & Reckless, Iris Pointed-Hem Bandeau Top

4th & Reckless

Iris Pointed-Hem Bandeau Top

For the minimalists amongst you.

Portia Floral Silk Crop Top

SIR

Portia Floral Silk Crop Top

I'll wear this chic top with cropped linen trousers and tan suede sandals.

2. Passing: Denim Shorts

Wearing: Capri Pants

Dated Summer Fashion Trends 2025

"Hear me out—while I love jeans on cooler days, I'm not riveted by the denim short trends that rears every summer. I personally don't love the look of a boxy jort on myself, and anything too micro just reminds me of how we'd used to wear them in 2012. (See: over stockings and with Converse). Instead, I'm sticking to the classic three-quarter lengths and slipping into a pair of capris. If they're good enough for Audrey Hepburn, Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber, they're good enough for me."—Ava Gilchrist, SEO writer

Shop the Trend

Gusta Knit Cropped Pant

Reformation

Gusta Knit Cropped Pant

Neutral Gingham Capri Trousers

Next

Neutral Gingham Capri Trousers

These come in two lengths and sizes 4 to 20.

Capri Cropped Linen Slim-Fit Pants

FAITHFULL

Capri Cropped Linen Slim-Fit Pants

The subtle kick-flare makes for a chic alternative to straight-leg capris.

3. Passing: Florals

Wearing: Polkadots

Dated Summer Fashion Trends 2025

"As a minimalist florals often come in bolder colours and feel too 'out there' for me. Polkadots are still a playful, elevated print but look much more sophisticated and refined."—Brittany Davy, editorial assistant

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