I hate to say it, but it’s officially too hot for jeans. With the Met Office deeming the UK in drought and yet more heatwaves on the cards, this summer, my denim has been gathering dust. As a fashion editor whom believes comfort and style should work in tandem, I’ve been feverishly hunting for a staple that would provide everything I love about jeans butwith a warm weather-appropriate twist. Pretty summer dresses? Not right for the office.. Linen trousers? Timeless, but a little lacklustre. That was until I stumbled across striped trousers.
While fashion is still in it’s maximalist era, playful prints are everywhere right now. With the spirited polish of stripes in particular though, its impossible to walk down the street and miss this motif. From pyjama pants to tailored wide-legs, summer 2026 has undoubtedly been the season of the stripe.
Lightweight and breathable whilst being versatile and stylish, striped trousers work perfectly with this season’s eclectic mood. So if you’ve been flirting with the idea of incorporating an uplifting dose of dopamine in 2026, this statement piece is a fail-safe way to do it.
After looking for a fresh way to wear them, I sought ‘inspo form the chicest people I know—the content creators on my social media feed. Whether styled with a cute halter and easy flip-flops, or a trending peplum top and a classic loafer, they’re proving striped trousers are having a moment for a reason. Scroll to see the six looks below, and you’ll know why they’ve made it into my saved folder.
How to Wear Striped Trousers, The Summer 2026 Way:
1. Striped Shirt + Striped Trousers + Raffia Bag
Style Notes: Can you ever go wrong with a co-ord come summer? An instant outfit in just two pieces; when you add a stripe, you’re left with a cooler, summer-ready look. Take ‘inspo from Barbara Kristoffersen [pictured above]and finish yours with a stylish raffia tote and cowboy hat straight off the beach.
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The perfect fabric for heatwaves.
These would also look chic with a white tank and sandals on a cooler day.
This bag also comes in sizes mini and large.
The beads are right on trend for summer 2026.
A classic.
2. Strapless Top + Linen Trousers + Metal-Detail Sandals
Style Notes: Further proof that striped trousers outfits don’t have to be all fuss and frills- they can be impeccably chic too. Leaning into neutral hues and timeless silhouettes, Emily Wells (pictured above) creates a look that is all about effortless elegance. Using her blue beaded bag and dainty red rope necklace to add a pop of colour, this easy-to-replicate look is one I’ll be wearing on repeat.
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How to wear bustiers for daytime.
These come in XXS to XXL and have a longer finish. Just something to note if your under 5ft 4.
The vibrant blue will brighten your neutrals with a playful pop.
A classic.
The chicest way to wear a diamond this season.
3. Headscarf + Peplum Top + Striped Trouser
Style Notes: Opting for a classic pair of pinstriped trousers in a stylish chocolate hue, Mary Jean‘s look [pictured above]makes the most of playful pieces to make smart trousers feel summer-ready. From her pretty, embroidered lace headscarf to her sculptural denim peplum top, this look is one to save for later if you’re after a way to make your striped trousers feel softer and more wearable in 2026.
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Shop Mary’s exact top.
These come in 11 prints and patterns.
If you’re after a cooler ruched loafer, look no further than this Alohas pair.
Headscarves have become the style of the summer.
Ganni’s bag selection are an It girl favourite.
4. Pillbox Hat + Print Top + Striped Trousers
Style Notes: Don’t be afraid of mixing prints and patterns, if you know how to style them well, they can look incredibly chic. In a look perfect for the maximalist dresses amongst us, Barbara Santiago [above]pairs her stripes with a vivid leopard print top, creating a base which packs a punch. Finishing with tan-toned accessories, she uses her vintage-inspired belt and raffia pillbox hat to pull the array of shades and prints together. Honestly, it’s a masterclass in modern style.
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Just remember your sticky bra.
The more stripes the merrier.
Don’t sleep on Aspinal of London’s exquisite bag selection this summer.
Find me a sleeker pair of ballet flats, I’ll wait.
This pillbox hat also comes in black too.
5. Loose Shirt + Striped Trousers + Flip Flops
Style Notes: If you’re a pared-back dresser, Kim Turkington’s look [above]is one you must see. Opting for a pair of striped trousers in white and black, the uber-thin stripes feel less busy. This styling choice allows her bright blue oxford shirt to really shine, creating vivid visual interest instantly. Bonus points if you keep your accessories minimal too.
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You can never go wrong with a brilliant blue shirt.
I’m stealing this look for my next trip away.
A who What Wear UK editors favourite.
Kendall Jenner was recently spotted out in this exact tote.
A timeless classic.
6. Halter Top + Striped Trousers + Bright Sandals
Style Notes: This summer, vertical striped trousers have really picked up. Beloved for their dopamine-inducing playfulness, when styling, lean into playful colours and shape to keep them looking fresh. Case in point: Rebecca Ferraz Wyatt’s beach-to-bar look. From her fun halterneck top to her ‘60s specs, each statement piece is refined enough to still allow her trousers to stand out.
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Halterneck tops have been all over my social media feeds this summer.
Shop Rebecca’s exact trousers.
Archies Arch Support Flip Flops have been this year shoe of choice.
Statement making.
This would look just as chic with a full white look.
