Europeans, especially those from countries close to the equator, really know how to dress for summer. Their looks are put together with an effortless vibe that’s hard to emulate. It’s difficult, but not impossible. Embracing the sunny season, stylish Europeans (and those visiting the region) choose breezy silhouettes, vibrant colors, and lightweight fabrics as the hallmarks of their summer outfits. I wouldn’t mind dressing like them, too. So let’s take a look at the European summer fashion trends that are currently trending.
For some reason, Europeans have a strong love for ’90s-inspired clothing, which you’ll see everywhere from Calais to Capri. For example, sensible footwear aside, continental Europeans seem to have an affinity for Carrie Bradshaw mules circa 1999. When it comes to patterns and colors, the general consensus seems to be that the more flashy the better, and this thinking also applies to many of the other European summer fashion trends I uncovered in my research.
From dresses to outfits, jewelry and, of course, cute shoes, keep scrolling to see the looks and aesthetics that are already taking Europe by storm this summer.
1. Lightweight dresses
Style Note: Lightweight fabrics are essential in the warm climate of Southern Europe, and a lightweight knit dress is the perfect alternative to linen if you’re tired of it.
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& More Stories
Fringe Crochet Midi Dress
The floral embroidery on this dress is very pretty.
Paloma Wool
Suarez fitted midi dress
You can wear them to the beach or layer them over slip-ons when you’re out and about.
2. Large pendant necklace
Style Notes: Gen Z travelers are declaring large pendants to be all the rage this summer, so look for chunky styles incorporating hearts, flowers, and abstract shapes to add a touch of Y2K glamour to your European offerings.
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Free People
Baby Flower Cord Choker
This necklace is the perfect way to elevate your holiday outfit.
Neck at risk
Cleo Gold Plated Stainless Steel Chain Necklace with Clear Heart Pendant
I love the combination of gold and translucent pendants.
3. Waistcoat Coordination
Style Notes: The co-ord is popular everywhere, but European girls are embracing one look in particular: As long as your upper body is covered by a waistcoat, you can wear trousers, shorts, or a skirt underneath.
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reform
Aspen Linen Top
This tomato red shade is perfect for summer on-trend.
reform
Veranda Linen Skirt
You can wear the vest and skirt together or with other items in your wardrobe.
4. 90s Mules
Style Notes: Maybe it’s Barbie’s influence, but cute retro-style mules are back on trend this summer. Cute details like crystal flowers and hearts add a retro appeal.
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Jimmy Choo
Avenue 50 Mules
Neutral tones that go well with any summer outfit.
mango
Heeled non-structured sandals
This sleek brown pair evokes ’90s chic.
5. Leopard print
Style Notes: If there’s one print trend everyone’s loving across continental Europe, from Rome to Paris, it’s leopard print. Of course, it’s mixed in with other patterns along the way, but this sexy motif seems to have, for lack of a better word, survived time (and geography).
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Norma Kamali
Leopard print georgette midi dress
This simple slip dress is super easy to style.
Crab
Recycled leopard print V-neck swimsuit
You can wear it as a swimsuit or tucked into straight jeans.
6. Bandeau tops
Style Notes: The simple bandeau top, as popular abroad as it is here, has made a stunning comeback this summer and is perfect to pair with denim skirts, shorts or jeans.
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Cos
Deconstructed wool bustier
Dress it up with tailored trousers or keep it casual with your favourite jeans.
7. Stylish scarves
Style Notes: A scarf for summer? This one’s revolutionary. We’re not talking wool scarves of course, we’re talking silk square scarves. Wrap it in your hair, tie it on a bag strap, style it as a top, or tie it around your neck – it’s a small but mighty addition to your vacation suitcase.
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& More Stories
Leopard print square scarf
Would this look cute if I tied it to a raffia bag?
Free People
Scarlet Hair Scarf
I plan on wearing this this summer with a white maxi dress.
8. Rosette Details
Style Notes: Rosettes (or corsages, whichever term you prefer) have been ubiquitous on the Summer 2023 runways and are now appearing on every outfit from London to Athens. Breathe new life into your existing wardrobe with brooches and necklaces, or try some ready-to-bloom pieces.
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Olivia Rose The Label
Sabrina dress in ivory with rosette detail
The perfect dress for a summer event.
Free People
Melody Choker
If you really want to make a statement.
9. Boxer shorts
Style Notes: Denim shorts are a warm-weather staple, but European travelers are packing lighter this summer with cotton boxer shorts. Opt for a blue pair to match everything you pair them with, or you can’t go wrong with classic white or black.
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Frankie Shop
Louis organic cotton poplin boxer shorts
Frankie Shop has a great selection of items perfect for summer.
Nothing below
boxer
Navy is just as versatile as black or white.
10. Red Flash
Style Notes: While pink is all the rage in other parts of the world, some fashionistas are going for a bright red hue. There’s something about this Chilean red hue that feels so European, and I agree.
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Rixo is my favorite for summer vacation dresses.
Arket
Wide linen pants
This season’s Arket linens are one of a kind.
