2026 Summer Trends I’m Actually Loving
Every summer, like clockwork, a wave of “new” trends land. Supposedly fresh and groundbreaking, with never-before-seen energy. Except they aren’t new at all – not really.
Because if you’ve been paying attention (or, in my case, quietly doing them for years), you’ll know that these “unexpected” trends have actually bubbled away for a while. And now? They’ve officially hit the zeitgeist.
Here’s what’s trending this summer, and why I’m very much here for it
Not Your Average Nails:
You know how much I adore nail art. I’ve been loyal to Michael since 2010 and you guys still go mad for our nail videos. Crystal nails are everywhere right now on red carpets, on TikTok, on people who previously thought a French tip was adventurous. Not to toot our own horns but Michael and I have done crystal nails for years. And when I say years, I mean my nails were literally encrusted with hundreds of Swarovski crystals for my wedding back in 2012. Casual, and 100% the reason I was 30 minutes late (but totally worth it).
Over a decade later in 2026, what’s changed is the attitude towards statement nails. It’s less about the “accent nail” energy and more about full, unapologetic maximalism. The more sparkle, the better.
How To Wear The Trend This Summer:
Go all in. Think: texture, dimension, light-catching chaos. Subtle is not a part of the brief, babe. Though, if you fancy something a little less in-your-face, try micro art.
We’re talking achingly sweet, teeny-tiny designs. From mini cherries to microscopic stars and barely-there line work – small but mighty designs have a big impact. Little pieces of art are precise, considered, and proof that not everything has to shout to get noticed. The key is to find an epic nail artist who can achieve these looks. If you fancy a bit of DIY, get yourself some stick-on nails with ready-made designs. Great for a night out.
The Breakdown:
Keep your base clean and let one or two nails do the talking. It’s giving “I didn’t try too hard,” even though you absolutely did. Or, go in the complete opposite direction and fill every nail with some sort of joyous art.
Nails I’m loving Right Now:
Hair Accessories Are Back and Better Than Ever:
Hair accessories have had a serious glow-up. We’re not talking chaotic Claire’s-era headbands (although, no shade), but more elevated and styled iterations. Bows are bigger, sleeker, and intentionally placed. Hair rings are creeping into everyday looks, not just festivals. Clips are less “functional” and more “finishing touch.”
How To Wear The Trend This Summer:
Pick one statement. A bow with a low pony. Rings threaded through a braid. Don’t overdo it. This trend works best when it feels effortless.
Hair Accessories I’m Loving Right Now:
Jelly Shoes… Yes, Really
I know. I had questions too. But when I spotted jelly shoes at the M&S press day, I knew they were gonna be everywhere, and they’ve had a rebrand. What used to feel very “playground” is now paired with sharp tailoring, floaty dresses, and genuinely chic outfits. They’re nostalgic, slightly ironic, and weirdly wearable.
How To Wear The Trend This Summer:
Balance is everything. Pair jelly shoes with something polished so that they feel more intentional, not accidental, or like you’re just slipping them on to take the bins out.
Jelly shoes I’m Loving Right Now:
Crochet Is Cool
Granny hobbies are cool again! Everyone knits and crochets these days, and now we’re seeing this trickle into mainstream fashion via the high street. We saw crochet bikinis last year, but this year we’re seeing tanks, jumpers and dresses, too. And we aren’t talking gaudy, dumpy designs – we’re talking chic, sharp, and effortlessly cool.
How To Wear The Trend This Summer:
Mix and match textures within an outfit. Try a crochet tank with denim shorts and a silk scarf tied around the waist. (And don’t forget the jelly shoes!)
Crochet and Knit-Inspired Pieces I’m Loving Right Now:
Accessories: The Bigger, The Better
Brooches! Big bangles! Chunky rings! Bright, layered necklaces! It’s all back, and now I’m annoyed that I had a big accessory clear-out in the 2010s.
I’m especially loving the look of big, statement pieces stacked against each other in clashing colours and shapes. Imagine an arm stacked with round bangles, square bangles, thin bangles, thick bangles, bejewelled bangles and plain bangles galore…
I also love the idea of stacking brooches on clothes like magnets on a fridge. Use pins to show your personality and make an otherwise boring outfit look more interesting. The loud accessory trend is all about being bold.
Big Accessories I’m Loving Right Now:
Trends like these resurface when people get bored of playing it safe. After seasons of “clean girl” and “quiet luxury” aesthetics, where everything was very pared back, there’s finally a shift happening. People want personality again. Texture. Fun. A bit of chaos. And, honestly? I’m into it. Because beauty (and style) should feel expressive – not like you’re following a rulebook or wearing a mandatory uniform.
If there’s one takeaway from all of this, it’s this: if you love it even when no-one else does, keep loving it. Because trends come and go, but personal style (and a good crystal nail moment) always wins.
Love,
Lisa xx
As always, I only ever recommend products I would use myself. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.
This is mostly spent on repairing the shoes Diddy keeps chewing.