Staying on top of summer fashion trends doesn’t mean spending a ton — in fact, Amazon has amazing options for shopping smarter. We asked stylists about the best summer clothes you can find on the site (with that fast and sweet Prime shipping, of course), from beachy accessories to summery sundresses, and what they look for in trends that are both chic and practical.
“I find that when summer is in full swing, I tend toward trends that incorporate more classic pieces with an edge that?make it easy to mix, match and travel,” says?Allison Berlin, stylist and founder of?Style Made Simple. “I stick with light neutrals?and pieces with texture to keep things interesting.”
For more guidance on what fashion is hot for summer, find the stylist-approved trends and picks below — all under $75.
Summer whites
Nothing complements tanned skin quite like a white dress or an all-white outfit. It’s one of the best neutrals for hot days, and it has a practical element too. It’ll help you stay cool by reflecting the sunlight away from you, instead of absorbing the warm rays. (However, the material of the clothing also plays a role in the cool-factor.) “White for summer may be a predictable?concept, but when applied to matching sets or maxi dresses, you can’t help but show up effortlessly stylish,” Berlin says.
A casual dress like this can look more polished when made in a crisp cotton poplin. This is one of Berlin's favorite summer dresses from Amazon.
The suit vest trend has been going strong for all of 2024, and for summer, you can make the look more easygoing in a clean knit vest. Pair it with denim shorts for a day off or even your favorite work trousers for an office-appropriate look.
Linen is lightweight and breathable, making it a favorite for summer closets. These relaxed shorts are great to throw on for scorching days. They'll keep anyone cool, since they they come in sizes XXS to 5X.
Knit textures
When it’s sweltering outside, you’re probably not going to reach for a sweater. But summertime knits are totally a thing, and they surprisingly won’t make you overheat. Unlike the chunky sweaters that you’ll reach for come fall, summertime knits feature open weaves, airy materials and body-grazing silhouettes that’ll keep you cool and comfortable. “The texture of lightweight crochet or pointelle knits is surprisingly versatile, and you can’t beat the?comfort factor,” Berlin says. “Pants can double as a beach cover-up and dresses go from day to evening with ease.”
Berlin loves these stretchy cotton crochet pants. They're lined so you don't have to worry about the see-through factor, and you can complete the look with the coordinating bralette.
A side slit and semi-sheer knit give this figure-skimming style a beachy feel — perfect for throwing on over your favorite swimsuit and showing a bit of skin.
This layering piece has plenty of ventilation for high temps, but it'll also give you some coverage when you're getting blasted by the AC — that's what we call a win-win!
Tenniscore
Whether you’re stepping onto the tennis court, trying your hand at padel or joining a friendly game of pickleball, racket sports are all the rage — and they’re influencing our everyday fashion, too. “Tenniscore” has fully embraced the preppy hallmarks of the sport’s uniforms and turned them into a major trend for summer. Think tennis dresses, polo shirts and varsity stripes — a bit more elevated than your typical athleisure, but still highlighting the comfort of performance fabrics and cuts.
One of the highlights of this flattering tennis dress is that it comes with matching inner shorts for coverage, but without the hassle of being a one-piece. (If you've ever had to use the bathroom while wearing a jumpsuit or romper, you know the struggle.)
Get your game face on with this sporty skirt. It's technically a skort, with built-in shorts that keep things comfortable and chafe-free under the flowy skirt.
For a preppy look, this cable-knit polo gives a cute nod to the tenniscore trend without going full tilt on the athletic-wear.
Raffia accessories
Raffia is one of Berlin’s favorite ways to bring “summer vibes to any accessory.”?The natural material comes from the raffia palm tree and it’s super pliable, which means it can be woven into handbags, shoes and other accessories. It’s an easy way to add texture and an organic feel to your summertime outfits. “With so many updated?raffia styles out there, it’s time to refresh,” Berlin says.
A straw purse for summer is a must, and Berlin loves the structure of this bucket bag. It even comes in a monochrome black color if you want to go for an edgier look.
Keeping you protected from UV rays while staying chic isn't an easy feat, but this sun hat is up to the task. This Panama style that Berlin recommends has a wide brim for coverage and an adjustable fit so it'll stay in place.
These raffia slides will go with nearly everything in your summer wardrobe. Their low profile means that they're easy to pack for vacation too.
Maxi dressing
Full-length skirts and dresses are reigning supreme this summer. The trick for rocking the maxi-length trend is to keep the materials light and airy. A cotton caftan or chiffon maxi skirt will add volume without weighing the look down.
"I’m planning on living in this oversized maxi dress all summer long," says fashion?and jewelry designer?Carla Rockmore. "It’s fairly easy-breezy casual, but could be dressed up a bit with the right accessories. You could also have some fun with all the different color options available."
The ultimate summer maxi skirt, this breezy pick has thousands of 5-star ratings and comes in dozens of pretty colors and prints. It'll add soft and flowy movement to your look.
One of our favorite summer dresses for going from day to night, this dotted style has a fit and flare silhouette with an elastic waist to keep things comfortable.
Butter yellow
Spotted on the red carpet and the runways, butter yellow has been one of the year’s biggest color trends and it’s still going strong for summer. The pastel hue is versatile and soft, offering a sunny hit of color without being too bold.
Grabbing a butter yellow accessory is an easy way to try the trend. This crossbody gives you the designer look for less while fitting all of your essentials.
The smocked waist and neckline give a cottagecore vibe to this easy dress that's perfect for your summer picnics.
Crochet trim and buttons down the back give this top a boho vibe. We're picturing it with white linen shorts for a super-summery look.
Matching sets
In need of a travel outfit, work from home uniform or an ensemble that you can just throw on and go? Try a matching set! The foolproof outfit is “easy but makes you look coordinated,” as Rockmore explains. Of course, you can also separate the pieces and wear them with other things in your closet to get even more mileage from them.
"This is an especially great option for traveling," Rockmore says of this loungewear set. The wide-leg pants and boxy tee ensure comfort for every leg of your trip.
This duo is basically a polished way of wearing sweatpants without actually wearing sweatpants. The contrasting trim gives it an elevated feel.
For an ensemble you can dress up or down, this pair offers summery separates that are flowy and light. Choose from 25 colors to coordinate with your closet.
