I’ve never been one to follow trends or the latest fad, always believing that a classic, anti-trend wardrobe suits me best. However I have to be honest: this can start to feel just a tad bit boring and “same-y”, especially in summer when I wear my black linen trousers and white tank tops on repeat. So, this season I’ve made it my goal to incorporate some elevated yet elegant trends that will make my outfits feel that little bit fresher.
And after hours spent scrolling on my Instagram feed as well as chatting to my fellow Who What Wear UK editors in the office, one thing became clear: there are a number of trends that were once considered “dated” set to come back this season. Of course, I’m well aware that trends always come and go, but the few that I have my eye on for 2026 all feel wearable and timeless, meaning I’ll be reaching for them for many years to come. And luckily for you, I’ve rounded them up below.
From it-girl-approved spiral jewellery to chic wedged sandals, keep scrolling to discover the seven trends that are making a comeback for summer 2026.
7 Fashion Trends Making a Comeback for Summer 2026
1. Trapeze Dress
Style notes: If you love an easy, throw-on dress as much as I do, then you’ll be very pleased to know that trapeze dresses are back in style. Comfortable, flattering, and effortlessly chic, this dress style can be dressed down with flat sandals and a raffia tote in the day, and kitten heels and a statement clutch for summer evenings out. First made popular in the 1960s, and then having a moment in the early 2020s, it’s clear that volume dressing is at the forefront for summer 2026.
Shop the Trend:
Toteme
Scoop Poplin Dress
Simple, chic and easy to style.
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Maxi Length Trapeze Shape Ruched Neckline Thin Vest Strap Dress
This will go with everything.
LEMLEM
Eda Cotton-Gauze Maxi Dress
2. Wedge Flip-Flops
Style notes: We all know that flip-flops are having a resurgence this year, and they’re a far cry from the rubbery, poolside iterations we all remember from our childhoods. My favourite style? The ‘90s inspired wedge iterations that dominated the 90’s and early Y2K era. However, the wedges leading the pack in 2026 remain much sleeker than the chunky, boldly coloured styles we previously championed.
Shop the Trend:
Reformation
Jessie Wedge Thong
ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS
Charys Suede Wedge Sandals
This suede iteration is calling to me.
Gianvito Rossi
Leather Wedge Thong Sandals
The chocolate hue will pair well with neutrals an bold hues alike.
3. Spiral Jewellery
Style notes: Jewellerymaxxing is officially back for 2026! And the spiral necklace, earrings and rings remind us of the 2010’s mermaidcore era are by far the most compelling. An easy way to add some interest to my otherwise very classic outfits, this trend feels equally as fresh as it does timeless and wearable.
Shop the Trend:
REJINAPYO
Swirl Chain Necklace Silver Plated
Mermaidcore at its finest.
Wear on its own or stack with a mix of gold and silver rings.
YSSO
1989 Sterling Silver Earrings
4. Graphic Tee
Shop the Trend:
Style notes: If you’re a regular reader of Who What Wear UK, then it should come as no surprise that our editors are big fans of the graphic tees that previously trended in the mid-2000s. An effortless way to dress up your jeans, skirts or linen trousers, this nostalgic top style is what I’ll be reaching for on casual days this summer and beyond.
Urban Outfitters
Uo Have a Word Ref Relaxed T-Shirt
RIXO ⋆
Ria Hand Painted Zodiac T-Shirt in White Virgo
I’m very into this star sign iteration.
5. Bandana
Style notes: I’m calling it: The bandana is the it-girl accessory of summer 2026. And much like in the 1970s and 2000’s when they were last trending, it’s all about eye-catching colours and statement patterns that will add interest to even the most basic of outfits.
Shop the Trend:
Ralph Lauren
Silk Twill Square Scarf
Yes, polka dots are still in for summer 2026.
Pasiley will never go out of style/
Gucci
Printed Silk Twill Carré
Leopard print has become a neutral in my wardrobe.
6. Neon
Style notes: If you were to ask me what trends I wasn’t expecting to come back this season, neon would be at the top of my list. However, I think after years of the creams, beiges and greys that dominated the quiet luxury era, I think we all deserve a bit of fun! Of course, I won’t be wearing all of my neon hues together like in the picture above; however, I definitely plan to invest in a few separates that can help add some playfulness to my outfits.
Shop the Trend:
Free People
Sweet Point Seamless Cami
An easy way to inject some colour into your outfits.
MELISSA ODABASH
Abbie Relaxed-Fit Cotton Shorts
I’d style these with a classic white tee and black leather flip-flops.
CHLOÉ
Junie Pvc-Trimmed Satin Sandals
7. Tankini
Style notes: I’ve never been a huge fan of bikinis, so a one-piece swimsuit has always been my choice for holidays. However, the tankinis that I wore as a child in the early 2000s are very much calling to me. They’re flattering, fun, and, most importantly, sit well within my comfort zone.
Shop the Trend:
M&S
Square Neck Tummy Control Ruched Tankini
This bold red hue is calling my name.
Tap into two trends in one go with this neon tankini.
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Tummy Control Bandeau Tankini Top
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