While it’s likely that none of the summer 2020 collections hitting stores right now were designed with at-home lifestyles in mind, many of our favorite trends from last September’s lineup of shows are turning out to be exactly what we need to stay both comfortable and out of our pajamas right now.
“Pieces that are comfortable and have longevity — whether dresses and slides, relaxed dressing pieces for around the home, shirting and knits that you can layer in different ways, activewear for exercise, special nightwear — these are the kinds of items we’re backing most for the upcoming season,” says Cassie Smart, Head of Womenswear Buying at Matches Fashion. “There is still a lot of desirability in more heavy-duty sandals like a Birkenstock,” she continues, also calling out relaxed footwear styles like ballet flats and trainers as big hitters for summer.
According to Smart, Matches shoppers are also craving pieces that offer a sense of escapism and joy — no surprise really, given the current state of things. “We’re seeing an uptick in uplifting pieces in bold prints and color,” she says. “This is across categories, from homeware to jewelry to activewear.”
This seems to be the case for other luxury retailers, too. According to Moda Operandi’s runway report, the e-tailer’s seen spikes in search for both “sweats” and “sweatsuits,” with a 50% and 85% rise, respectively. Additionally, Moda found that customers were shopping more for sets rather than separates over the last few weeks. Wanderlust resort-style pieces also saw a rise in popularity at Moda, with bright hues, lightweight sets, tropical patterns, and comfortable footwear being highly sought after.
A quick review of the spring ‘20 runways show that lingerie as outerwear (courtesy of Dion Lee), along with bra tops (Maryam Nassir Zadeh), cardigan sweater sets (Chanel), tie-dye loungewear sets (Collina Strada), and more, will all be present in this summer’s lineup — all of which are perfect for our current living situation.
Ahead, 7 summer 2020 trends that are surprisingly perfect to wear right now and all summer long.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
The 2020 Way To Sweater Set
In a surprising turn of events, this summer’s collection included a slew of matching knitwear options that are nothing like the frumpy ones you might remember from your grandmother’s closet. From fast fashion options from Zara and Mango to luxury designers like Dion Lee, these ultra-preppy two-piece sets just got a modern (and covetable) upgrade.
Mango Knit Halter Top, $, available at Mango
Mango Combined Knitted Cardigan, $, available at Mango
Dion Lee Pinnacle Pleat Crop Top, $, available at Forward By Elyse Walker
Dion Lee Pinnacle Pleat Cardigan, $, available at Forward By Elyse Walker
Violeta By Mango Cotton Organic Top, $, available at Mango
Violeta By Mango Fine-Knit Cardigan, $, available at Mango
Zara Knit Top, $, available at Zara
Zara Jacket With Buttons, $, available at Zara
Bra Tops Are Tops, Too
When your bras look this good, it’d be a shame to cover them up with another top. Instead, this summer, we’re making our lingerie the star of every outfit.
Maryam Nassir Zadeh Pink Val Bikini Top, $, available at SSENSE
Khaite Eda Cashmere Bralette, $, available at mytheresa
Savage x Fenty Flocked Logo Bralette, $, available at Savage x Fenty
Jacquemus Bandeau Swim Top, $, available at Moda Operandi
Totally Chill Leisurewear
It’s no secret that ’70s-style tie-dye has been back in vogue for some time now. But this season’s selection of crewnecks, bike shorts, dresses, and more — all available in the groovy print — are better than ever before.
Collina Strada Sunset Watercolor Side Curtain Crew, $, available at Collina Strada
Aries Purple Tie-Dye Socks, $, available at SSENSE
Callipygian Textured Tie Dye Bike Shorts, $, available at Opening Ceremony
Universal Thread Plus-Size Tie-Dye Sleeveless Knit Dress, $, available at Target
Rainbow Sherbert
There’s nothing more refreshing come summer than a double scoop of the fruity ice dessert. So why not dress like our favorite flavors, too?
Simon Miller Dress, $, available at Simon Miller
Pêche Alexis, $, available at Pêche
Outdoor Voices FreeForm Bralette, $, available at Outdoor Voices
Outdoor Voices Freeform Shorts, $, available at Outdoor Voices
Eloquii Flare Sleeve Maxi Wrap Dress, $, available at Eloquii
Everywhere Clogs
They’re like slippers, but, rather than only being worn immediately after getting out of bed, these structured clogs are good daylong — whether inside or out.
Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed Leather, $, available at Zappos
Rachel Comey Serge Clog in Red, $, available at Need Supply
Birkenstock x Proenza Schouler Arizona Leather Slides, $, available at Matches Fashion
The Row Sabot Smooth Calfskin Mules, $, available at Neiman Marcus
Escapist Print
You’re not alone in wanting a vacation. After being indoors this long, we could all use an escape. In the meantime, transport yourself to a beach by stocking up on all the tropical prints available.
& Other Stories Front Slit A-Line Midi Skirt, $, available at & Other Stories
Rhode Elodie Top, $, available at Shopbop
Eloquii Buckle Detail Midi Skirt, $, available at Eloquii
Reformation Chianti Dress, $, available at Reformation
Two Words: House Dresses
When in the comfort of your own home, you might be tempted to just wear leggings and a baggy T-shirt, or a matching sweatsuit. May we suggest turning to house dresses next time? Flowy and lightweight, these frocks feel like you’re wearing nothing at all.
COS Lyocell-Linen Long Seersucker Checked Dress, $, available at COS
Pixie Market Bauhaus Tie Dress, $, available at Pixie Market
Mara Hoffman Sophie Dress, $, available at Mara Hoffman
Sir The Label Aya Slip Dress, $, available at Moda Operandi
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
The Best Under-$150 Buys Of The Month
