Honestly, These Summer Trends Feel a Little Dated 10 Our Editors Rate Instead
Fashion is always moving forward, and while some summer staples return season after season, others start to feel like leftovers from a past season’s Pinterest board. If you’ve found yourself scrolling past the same TikTok outfits or wondering why your favorite influencers look like they’re stuck in 2022, you’re not alone.
This summer, our editors took a hard look at what’s starting to feel tired and what’s stepping in with a fresher, more elevated vibe. Here are 10 “dated” summer trends we’re gently retiring, and the chic upgrades we’re wearing instead in 2025.
1. Retiring: Micro Shorts
Wearing: Relaxed Tailored Shorts
Micro shorts had their moment during the post-lockdown, leg-baring revival, but in 2025, a longer inseam feels fresher. We’re into Bermuda cuts, boxy tailoring, and even pleated styles that give a more polished, breathable look without sacrificing comfort.
2. Retiring: Cottagecore Everything
Wearing: Sleek Minimalist Sundresses
The ruffles, puff sleeves, and ultra-feminine overload of cottagecore are starting to feel like a costume. In their place? Think clean-lined linen or silk dresses in natural hues, styled simply with slides and gold jewelry. Think quiet luxury meets summer heat.
3. Retiring: Crochet Overload
Wearing: Sheer Layers with Structure
Yes, crochet is still around, but the head-to-toe DIY look? Less so. Instead, opt for mesh tops, sheer skirts, or organza overlays that add dimension without the bulk. They’re easier to layer, sleeker, and feel far more modern.
4. Retiring: Matchy-Matchy Neon Sets
Wearing: Muted Co-Ords in Earthy Tones
Lime green two-piece sets are out. In their place are chic co-ords in shades like terracotta, slate, or butter yellow. The vibe is effortless and wearable cohesive without being overly coordinated.
5. Retiring: Flatform Flip-Flops
Wearing: Sleek Leather Sandals or Fisherman Flats
The chunky platform flip-flop can stay in 2023. This year’s hero shoe is refined: think strappy flat leather sandals, minimalist fisherman flats, or quiet luxury slides with thoughtful design. They still go with everything—just better.
6. Retiring: Statement Bucket Hats
Wearing: Oversized Sunglasses & Woven Visors
Bucket hats were cute for a few summers, but now? We’re reaching for oversized sunglasses (hello, Anna Wintour energy) and woven visors that elevate your look while still keeping you shaded. Fashion meets function—without looking like you’re going fishing.
7. Retiring: Y2K Baby Tees
Wearing: High-Neck Tanks & Slim Racerbacks
The baby tee had its resurgence, but in 2025, we’re leaning into structured tanks with thick straps or high necks. They layer beautifully under tailoring, balance wide-leg trousers, and feel more grown-up with the same casual comfort.
8. Retiring: Overly Distressed Denim Shorts
Wearing: Denim Midis or Longline Shorts
Distressed denim cut-offs are starting to feel dated—especially with frayed hems and side butt peeks. Swap them for a high-rise denim midi skirt or longline short. They feel more intentional and offer tons of styling range.
9. Retiring: Loud All-Over Prints
Wearing: Placement Prints & Negative Space Florals
Big, all-over prints can sometimes overwhelm an outfit. What feels fresher now are strategic prints: think a bold floral on just one side of a dress, or sparse, floating motifs that let negative space breathe.
10. Retiring: Logo-Heavy Totes
Wearing: Slouchy Raffia & Canvas Shoulder Bags
We’re toning down the branding. 2025’s favorite carryalls are soft-structured totes in raffia, canvas, or woven leather, without giant logos. They’re versatile, elevated, and go from beach to city effortlessly.
Final Take
Fashion in 2025 is all about ease, subtlety, and staying power. That doesn’t mean boring—it means curating pieces that feel like you, without trying too hard. Dated doesn’t mean dead; it just means it’s time to evolve. And honestly, we’re ready for the upgrade.
