While the official first day of summer isn’t until later this week, the trends that will define the season have already stepped into the sunshine. 

At Stitch Fix, we’ve combined our industry insights and trend expertise with our deep trove of data from our millions of clients to identify what people will be wearing this summer. And, because we know the hardest part is often figuring out how to wear those trends, we’ve created a few tips to help. 

Newstalgia: Retro Gets a Summer Remix 

As temperatures rise, so does a yearning for the styles of yesteryear. We are seeing our clients gravitate toward trends that are ‘70s, ‘90s, and Y2K-coded — with a modern twist.

For example, since last year, client requests for ’70s-inspired crochet are up 50%, sales of mesh tops—a ‘90s staple—are up 200%, and requests for items featuring Y2K-inspired “cherries” are up 50%. On the footwear front, retro styles are firmly back in rotation. Compared to the same time last year, flatform sales are up 65%, and together, slide and flip-flop sales are up more than 450%.

How to Wear It: Crochet and mesh are perfect for summer because they add texture to your outfit while also being light to keep you comfortable in the sun. Modernize these throwback fabrics by layering a crochet tank over a bralette, or a mesh tee over a cami. Complete the look with wide-leg pants and flatforms that give you height without sacrificing comfort (and won’t sink into the grass at picnics or backyard parties!)

Farm Fresh: Cottagecore’s Sun-Drenched Evolution 

The cottagecore aesthetic is getting a summer refresh, with clients gravitating toward countryside-inspired styles. Client requests mentioning the word “rustic” are up 600% since last year, reflecting a growing desire for looks that feel natural, earthy, and ideal for laid-back summer moments. 

Since last year, sales of boho-style midi and maxi dresses and skirts have grown by more than 150% and more than 100%, respectively. Freestyle searches for gingham—a key print in this aesthetic—have jumped 125% in just the last three months.

How to Wear It: Pair your midi or maxi skirt with a classic tank, flat sandals, and a woven bag — and you’re good to go! For nights out on the town, add a structured denim jacket or leather slides to offset the soft silhouettes. If you’re interested in trying out gingham, opt for colors like tan or blue to keep the print feeling fresh and versatile. 

Court Sport: Country Club Style Goes Mainstream 

With events like Wimbledon, the PGA Tour Championship, and the anticipated Happy Gilmore 2 movie on the horizon, tennis and golf-inspired styles are having their moment. Requests for “country club” items are on the rise across both our women’s and men’s clients, up 50% and nearly 20% since last year, respectively. 

Since last year, we’ve been offering a wider assortment of active dresses and are seeing significant demand for them. In addition, active skirts and skorts are up more than 50%. For men, we’ve seen a more than 70% increase in requests for “preppy” and a 25% increase in requests mentioning “golf course” year-over-year. 

How to Wear It: For serving a comfortable-yet-cute look this summer, pair an activewear dress or skort with an oversized knit sweater or denim jacket. Throw on a classic white sneaker to complete the look. For men, lean into polos, performance shorts, and lightweight knits that mirror the golf vibe while still being wearable off the green. 

Main Character Minimalism: The New Uniform for Men  

This summer, our men’s clients are leaning into a style that feels effortlessly cool, defined by timeless, functional pieces. Requests for classic items have increased by 95% since last year, reflecting a shift toward foundational wardrobe staples that are understated yet purposeful.

Since last year, solid core tee sales are up 50% and light-wash denim has grown more than 130%. There is a clear preference for high-quality basics, with a noticeable shift toward premium fabrics in tees and clients willing to invest more in quality.

How to Wear It: Some trends will come and go, but classic staples are forever. Focus on elevated essentials—solid tees, quality denim, and neutral layering pieces in colors like white, navy, and khaki—so they can mix and match easily, season after season. And for summer, it’s all about lighter-washed denim.

Methodology
Unless otherwise stated, all stats reflect year-over-year comparisons (Q3 FY’24 / Q3 FY’25).