With Edinburgh’s weather finally reaching the double digits, this can only mean one thing: everyone and their nan is about to flock to the meadows (or a beer garden) at the first sight of the sun. You, therefore, are likely debating what exactly to wear, or perhaps what everyone else will be wearing. Well, rest assured, The Student has you covered, documenting the key trends that you will see frolicking around George Square these coming months.
Current media is an exuberant outburst of kaleidoscopic colours, from the neon orange of Marty Supreme, to the hyper-pop pink of Zara Larson. Such playful vibrancy is everywhere in fashion right now, while the clean girl’s bland minimalism is dying (thankfully). In line with the 2016-nostalgia trend, we begin to see a more whimsical, puerile approach to fashion, channeling our inner child to play around with different textures and patterns. Sequins, crochet (bonus points if you DIY it), and the boho-chic Missoni zig-zag are all key tenets of this summer’s wardrobe.
It would be rude not to mention the most prominent trend at the moment: stripes, stripes, and more stripes! Oversized, boxy, striped-tees are everywhere, and often pair perfectly with some linens for those cooler, summer evenings. We are currently also seeing a strong anti-consumerist, non-digital sentiment which is trickling down into fashion as people begin to experiment with their clothes. One of the best options for this is the good, old-fashioned scarf. The versatility of a funky, mesh scarf cannot be understated; it can be worn over your shoulders, around your waist, or as a head-scarf à la Olivia Rodrigo in the ‘Deja Vu’ music video. Scarves are pretty cheap to snatch up from charity shops, which also means you’ll find a totally unique 2000s-esque quirky pattern for a very good price.
If there’s one trend people love at the moment, it’s the concept of an elevated basic, and nothing captures this vision better than studs. Studs are currently adorning every and any form of clothing: belts, headbands, tanktops, bags, skirts — you name it. Studded holes, especially, are featuring prominently around the neckline of 2026’s favourite item: the slouchy top. Studs beautifully bring a certain indie-esque energy to any outfit and remain easy to style and therefore prove very popular as we head into summer.
Obnoxiously cool accessories are another favourite; big sunglasses, chunky belts and statement jewellery pieces all adorn every-other outfit. Another popular accessory is funky footwear — say goodbye to the boring New Balance this summer and embrace some colourful flip-flops or ballerina flats. A particular favourite of mine being the Yellow Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66s, as they just add the perfect pop of colour into any outfit.
However, the most important trend this summer remains the ability to not just follow the trends for the sake of consumerism. As we spill into the sultry, hot weather, keep an open mind, get experimental with new outfits, try a new style, refashion that old top — this summer’s hottest accessory will remain your own creative and unique vision.
Image by Julia Kicova on Unsplash