Inspiration Made Easy: Products That Empower Your Life

Top Summer Outfit Trends

Top Summer Outfit Trends

When you’re looking for a little fun in the sun, shop Kohl’s and find the summertime essentials you need to update your wardrobe. No matter if you’re gearing up for a family vacation to the beach, just need some everyday must-haves to wear out and about, or need something to wear to a summer event like a wedding, Kohl’s has the clothing needed to shine some light on your personal style!

Summer attire for women includes popular picks like graphic tees, tank tops, skirts, dresses and shorts. Our selection of warm-weather wear offers options for the whole family, too, including men, women and kids. And don’t forget about summertime footwear, like slide sandals and flip-flops.

When the weather begins to warm up and outdoor activities become the norm, shop Kohl’s and get your family dressed for the season.

Top Summer Outfit Trends

Summer Outfit Trends to Consider

There are a variety of trends and themes to choose from when it comes to designing a summer ensemble. Each trend offers a unique style that matches the season, showcasing clothing options that feature bright colors, lightweight materials, and lots of other features that tie into the warm weather.

Cottagecore

The cottagecore trend connects with the ideas and aesthetics surrounding life in the idyllic setting of the countryside. This means that cottagecore outfits tend to include ruffles and floral prints, knit detailing, linen construction and loose-fitting, flowy silhouettes.

Here are some items to consider that will easily work into your cottagecore collection:

Women’s DRAPER JAMES RSVP Sleeveless Maxi Dress

This dress features a linen blend and a classic gingham checkered pattern, both of which are key components to any addition to a cottagecore outfit. It’s also easy to pair with other layering pieces, like a cardigan sweater or light jacket.

Complete the look with a pair of casual sneakers, flats or even cowboy boots to fully embrace the rural appeal.

Women’s LC Lauren Conrad Squareneck Lace Peasant Top

To encapsulate the flowing characteristics of the cottagecore trend, add in this women’s peasant top from LC Lauren Conrad. The lace detailing and puffy sleeves fit into the trend with ease.

Also, you can easily coordinate the top with jeans, a skirt or a pair of casual pants.

Y2K/2000s Aesthetic

What’s old is new again! This trend takes a time machine back to the turn of the millennium, and adds clothing options that connect to what was popular over 20 years ago. Some key items you’ll find in this trend include baggy jeans, chunky sneakers and clothing with shiny materials. Consider these items for your Y2K collection:

Vans Ward Hi Women’s Platform Shoes

Sneakers with platform soles really bring back the late ’90s/early 2000s nostalgia. These sneakers from Vans are ideal when building a Y2K outfit.

They also pair well with wide-leg jeans, which are also key to this trend. Add in a retro graphic tee or hoodie, and you’re all set to turn back the clock!

Juniors’ Indigo Rein Wide Leg Jeans

If you need a pair of wide-leg jeans to complete that retro look, try these juniors’ Indigo Rein jeans.

Not only do they connect to the retro trend with the loose fit, but they also add in distressed details to enhance the look.

Business Comfort/Workleisure

The world of work attire has changed dramatically over the last few years. Dressing for a day of work no longer necessarily means semi-formal attire. This is where the workleisure and business comfort trend comes in.

Workleisure clothing incorporates elevated office looks and styles with comfortable features, so whether you’re still in work-from-home mode, are in a hybrid work situation or are fully back in the office, you can look and feel your best. Consider these options for your workday outfit:

Simply Vera Vera Wang Live-In High Rise Leggings

Leggings offer the ideal comfort you want that will get you through the day, and can pair with other business attire to complete the look.

These Simply Vera Vera Wang leggings feature a trendy high rise that sits on the natural waistline. They are made of a stretch material that ensures all-day comfort.

Women’s LC Lauren Conrad Fitted Blazer

To complete your workday wardrobe, add in this LC Lauren Conrad women’s blazer. Its versatile look means you can wear it to the office, wear it at home as you take that important video call, or even as part of your weekend outfit as you spend time with family and friends.

Wear the blazer over a simple tee, a colorful blouse or a light tank top to finish the look.

On-The-Go/Active Casual

Everyone’s daily routines and schedules require lots of on-the-go … you’re either on a call, running errands, getting ready for a family get-together, getting a workout in, etc. If your days require you to be up and moving, you’re sure to want to embrace the active-casual trend.

This trend features attire options that offer stretch, breathable fabric, lightweight materials, and modern styles, fits and features. Brands also rule the day in this area, as athleisure stalwarts like Nike, adidas, FLX, Tek Gear, Under Armour and Champion provide all kinds of athletic apparel that you’ll love. Here’s a look at a few on-the-go, go-to options:

Women’s Tek Gear Essential Hooded Jacket

Add a light layer to your active look with this Tek Gear hooded jacket. The moisture-wicking material keeps you comfortable, while stretchy jersey construction easily moves with you.

The jacket can easily be a part of your workout wardrobe, your relaxation attire, or even as a work-from-home option that allows you to feel your best during the day.

Women’s FLX Affirmation High-Waist Jogger Pants with Side Pockets

To complete the look, add in a pair of joggers from FLX. These pants are a great, versatile option you can wear at home when you’re bingeing your favorite show, or when you’re out and about taking care of business.

No matter what, you’ll be comfortable thanks to the soft jersey fabric and elastic waistband. The twin side pockets allow you to keep your phone, keys and other personal items close by.

What to Wear at Specific Summer Occasions

The summer season is filled with lots of fun outdoor events that let you show off your updated warm-weather wardrobe. Let’s take a look at some of these situations and how you can dress to impress at each one!

What to Wear at the Beach

For a real fun-in-the-sun experience during the summer, take your family on a trip to the beach. Any time spent in the sand requires a few must-haves for your wardrobe. Consider a new swimsuit, a coverup, sandals and more. Don’t forget to add must-have accessories, like wide-brimmed hats and tote bags.

What to Wear to a Barbecue/Cookout

Getting together with friends and family in a backyard setting is one of the staples of summer fun. With a grill going, yard games being played, and tunes in the air, backyard barbecues are a great time to wear a laid-back, yet fashionable summer outfit.

Choose a midi or maxi dress to add flowy style to your look, or choose casual shorts, a skirt, a graphic tee or a floral blouse to complete the outfit. You can choose from a wide variety of shoes to finish off the look—sneakers, sandals, flats and more are all easy to coordinate with a backyard barbecue look.

What to Wear When Running

Summer weather allows you to take your workouts outside, so you’ll want to be geared up to put on the miles in comfort and style. A new pair of athletic shoes is a must, as they’re responsible for cushioning and supporting your every step.

Add in moisture-wicking tops and bottoms, as well as a durable pair of socks and supportive foundational pieces. You may also wish to add an active jacket, in case rain is in the forecast.

What to Wear Hiking/Camping

Another way to enjoy the outdoors during summer is to head out into the wilderness. When taking on hiking trails or setting up camp, you’ll want to be dressed appropriately for the always-changing weather conditions.

Start from the ground and work your way up, beginning with a sturdy pair of hiking boots or shoes. If hiking in tall grasses, wear long pants to protect from insects and other potential skin hazards and irritants.

For a top, wear lightweight shirts that wick moisture from the skin, and look for options that may even provide sun protection. Add in a hat that also keeps the sun off your eyes and face.

At the Gym/Yoga

Your workout wardrobe is always in need of a seasonal refresh. If your exercise routine takes you to the gym, to the yoga studio, or to any other kind of active area, you’ll want to ensure your comfort. Look for stretchy leggings or shorts that let you reach and move with ease. Moisture-wicking materials are also important here, to pull sweat away from your skin.

Consider a sports bra for additional support, and a pair of athletic shoes to provide traction and stability. If you’re into yoga, you can also find yoga mats, straps and other accessories.

With summer just around the corner, you’ll want to look your best to match the bright, sunshiny weather that’s on its way! Shop Kohl’s and find summer essentials for your wardrobe, as well as for every member of your family. From shorts and tees to swimwear and sandals, Kohl’s has all the warm-weather clothing you need to enjoy the summer season.