Four trends for summer 2026 – and how to style them
From colour drenching to postcard prints, get your summer wardrobe ready with these seasonal, fashion forward looks
There’s something about summer – and summer wardrobes in particular – that is inescapably optimistic. Perhaps it’s the fact that, in the UK at least, warm weather isn’t promised. But whether we’re sowing seeds for summer blooms or planning coastal staycations, we simply have to believe that after winter and spring, long sunny days will return.
Day to day, the summer months become all about spontaneity. Aperols after work, last-minute trips to Lille or the Lake District, Saturdays strolling the cobbled-streets of Whitstable or Whitby. But how do you dress when you don’t know where the day – or week – will take you? Happily, Next’s real-world-ready take on summer’s key trends, makes a style refresh a breeze – and can be easily incorporated into your existing wardrobe.
The summer edit will make holiday packing a doddle too, thanks to clever co-ords that can do double duty as separates, working smarter not harder when it comes to your luggage allowance. But whether you mix and match or embrace the full look of this year’s best summer trends, Next will make getting dressed easier than ever.
1 Spot on
Polka dots are having a moment in the spotlight this summer, as everything from micro dots to statement spots appear across flowing dresses, skirts, scarf tops and lightweight jackets. As far as everyday dressing goes, at Next it’s an easy way to introduce a hint of print, whether you opt for large scale spots or smaller dots.
Hot tip: Make it monochrome with a funnel-neck lightweight jacket adorned in statement spots, for an elevated look that works in the office with black trousers and flats, and off duty too, simply pair with tailored shorts for a Euro-chic city break vibe.
2 Club Med
Embracing summer isn’t just about dressing for the weather – although of course that’s part of it. It’s about recognising that as the layers come off, the clothes that remain sometimes have to work that little bit harder. And while colour is an important part of the story, texture is equally key, but all too often forgotten. Next has taken inspiration from coastal craftsmanship and relaxed European style to create a look that’s rich in texture and subtle adornment.
Hot tip: Want an easy, elegant way to nod to the look? A simple spaghetti strap tank embroidered with wildflowers will look just as good at home with summery jeans as it will with a silk skirt or shorts on holiday.
For a statement take, Next’s boxy crochet polo, embellished with shells and a lace-up placket has all the romance of a Greek island adventure without having to dust off your passport. Balance the maximal details with soft wash denim and sleek silk and leather accessories for real world charm.
3 Drenched in colour
High-impact but easy to achieve – colour drenching is a look that we’ve come to love in the home, so little wonder that it’s inspiring the way we dress too.
This season, bold colour-led clothing is all about letting the palette do the talking. Next’s take on relaxed tailoring might make a statement with double-breasted suits in hues of ice blue and lush green, but they’re actually surprisingly versatile. Pair with equally statement accessories for a modern wedding outfit, or strip things back with a classic white T-shirt or cotton shirt for work. And don’t forget to mix and match – sub in jeans and a crochet tank for easy date night dressing.
Hot tip: If wearing block colour head-to-toe feels a little too out there for you, embrace stripes and print details to break things up a little while still making a statement.
4 The great escape
Picture postcards and paper maps may be the romantic remains of holidays long gone, but their appeal is eternal. And in these hi-tech times, it’s little wonder that we’re increasingly embracing playful prints in our wardrobes. At Next, flowing silk sundresses, relaxed shirts and statement co-ords are adorned with painterly prints, Vitruvian waves and Hellenic text to create perfectly laid-back pieces for lazy summer days.
Hot tip: There’s a hint of treasure-seeker about this trend, and while it’s perfect for easy holiday dressing the look can still work on your return home. The key is to add a little edge in your styling to offset the simple silhouettes and romantic prints: balance out a strappy sundress with modern flats and a chunky chain link choker.
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