Fashion and Beauty: Styles and Trends to Beat the Heat

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Summer Style Has Arrived

After the spring that wasn’t, summer has arrived, making a grand entrance. Without the transition of springtime weather, it may seem difficult to shift into summer fashion. But the time has come to start wearing the styles and trends of the season.

For 2026, the looks range from light and flowy to classically cut. Let’s look at what the season has in store.

High temperatures mean light, loose, and gauzy fabrics. From maxi dresses with halter, sweetheart, or strapless tops to wide-cut linen pants, there is no mistaking these looks as being for anything other than backyard parties and late-night dinners outdoors with candlelight aglow.

Effortless is the vibe and encompasses linen shorts that work for day or evening, paired with either a top of the same color—monochrome is unquestionably on trend—or a romantic floral blouse to soften the overall effect.

Dresses, of course, are a seasonal staple. Look for very long styles (maxi, as noted above) or a short babydoll style. Either way, the “throw-on” dress, beloved for its simplicity, is a big hit.

Are you a devotee of the American Camelot story? No matter how you respond, Carolyn Kennedy’s clean, Manhattan look is wildly popular for the season. Whether it’s a cigarette pant with a crisp white blouse or an Audrey Hepburn-style silhouette in a sleeveless black shift, Carolyn’s style is on full display this summer. And, I would hazard a guess, it will extend beyond the season.

Graphic prints (think vintage) and World Cup style are other popular casual fares for summer. They’re not just for picking up breakfast on Sunday morning. Dress them up or down, using accessories to complete the look.

Colors this season are truly a mixed bag. Cobalt blue, deep purple, and rich citrus colors are all part of this summer’s palette, along with more typical shades of butter yellow, earth tones (all gorgeous against sun-bleached hair), and, of course, white and off-white.

Simple sandals, basket bags, slouchy oversized leather bags, large-framed shades, and bold scarves all trim out this season’s ensembles, as do the stone necklaces, large rings, and bangle bracelets you will find in boutiques and department stores alike.

As you complete your look, you may find that much of the season’s offerings are an homage to the boho look, perfect for hot, lazy days of summer.

So, go for long walks while sundown is late, enjoy the sand and surf while the temperature is high, and breeze into backyard BBQs while the invitations are many.

With this season’s styles, you’ll look and feel great.