7 Gen Z-Approved Summer 2025 Trends, Per Celebrity Stylists

It’s not even July, but it doesn’t feel too soon to declare this one of the most exciting summers for fashion in recent memory, and that’s largely thanks to Gen Z’s eclectic approach to getting dressed. Millennials have had their moment (and I say this as a 1996-born cusper), but there’s no denying that Gen Z’s arsenal of It Girls is leading the charge when it comes to shaping seasonal trends.   

“There’s a clear shift toward authenticity and individuality this summer,” celebrity stylist duo Danielle O’Connell and Alix Gropper told InStyle via email. “Gen Z doesn’t want to look like they’re chasing trends, they want to look like they’re curating them.” I tapped Danielle and Alix, who have worked with stars like Alix Earle and Paige DeSorbo, to break down the summer trends that are starting to feel a little, well, dated—and more importantly, what younger generations are wearing instead. 

Their responses reflected a generational fatigue with micro trends that strip away individual style (i.e. the mob wife aesthetic or clean girl phenomenon), resulting in a yearning for more nuanced self-expression through juxtaposing textures, colors, prints, and silhouettes. Baggy bottoms are contrasted with sexy, sheer pieces and dainty ballet flats; statement jewelry is balanced with barely there thong flip-flops. 

In other words, there’s not really a right or wrong way to satisfy what Danielle and Alix call Gen Z’s “craving for nuance.” But if you’re looking for a place to start, keep scrolling to find out which summer trends Gen Z is skipping this year and trying instead.     

Low-Rise Denim

Levi’s Superlow Jeans

The debate between high-waisted and low-waisted denim is one of the biggest fashion divides—and Gen Z is staunchly committed to the low-rise revival. “Gen Z is craving effortlessness, and ultra-high denim can feel overly constructed,” Danielle and Alix told InStyle. “There’s been a real pivot to low and mid-rise silhouettes that look lived-in and casually cool.” Whether you’re a seasoned midriff-barer or it’s your first foray into low-rise silhouettes, you can’t go wrong with Levi’s jeans, especially at an under-$100 price point. 

Relaxed Tailoring

Eaves Aven Long Shorts

According to Danielle and Alix, “low-rise trousers and relaxed, menswear-inspired suiting are everywhere this season—cool, not corporate.” Tailored, knee-grazing Bermuda shorts like the Eaves Aven Long Shorts and J.Crew Pleated Linen Blend Trouser Shorts perfectly capture this balance, conveying the same effortlessness as a pair of low-slung jeans. Play with proportions by pairing them with a fitted tank or strapless top and ballet flats. 

J.Crew Pleated Linen-Blend Trouser Shorts

Polka Dots

Maeve Printed V-Neck Scarf Cami

“While the romanticism of cottagecore had its moment, Gen Z is leaning into cleaner, stronger aesthetics that are more wearable in real life,” explained the styling duo, noting that dainty floral prints have been overtaken by bold polka dots this year. Thanks to the retro print’s sudden pervasiveness, you can find polka dot clothing in pretty much any color palette or style, including this brown-and-white scarf cami. It also looks great in classic black-and-white, as proven by this flirty Petal & Pup Maxi Dress. 

Petal & Pup Jenni Polka Dot Maxi Dress

Minimalist Flat Footwear

Voleece Mesh Ballet Flats

ICYMI: All the cool girls are trading their chunky sneakers for more polished silhouettes, such as ballet flats, mesh Mary Janes, or flip-flops. “They’re sleek, a little subversive, and go with literally everything,” said Danielle and Alix of these slimmer shoe silhouettes. The two are “longtime fans of the Alaia Mesh Ballet Flats or Miu Miu’s woven style,” but if designer footwear isn’t in your budget, the celebrity stylists found a similar pair of flats on Amazon for just $45.   

Havaianas Slim Flip-Flops

Pretty Pastels

Reformation Eli Oversized Linen Shirt

“Gen Z is embracing color in a more sophisticated way this season,” Danielle and Alix told InStyle. “Instead of neon green or Barbie pink, it’s all about butter yellow, slate blue, and pistachio.” While butter yellow is just about everywhere lately, this oversized linen shirt from Reformation is a chic departure from more expected sundresses and camisoles. Dress it down with denim and boat shoes or size up and style it as a mini dress with kitten heels for a sexy, menswear-inspired nighttime look. If you’re burnt out on butter yellow, check out this light green skort dress that’s as comfy as it is cute.

Abercrombie Bra-Free Everyday Skort Dress

Sheer Layers

Free People Sheer Luck Midi Skirt

Though sheer clothing is arguably the most out-there Gen Z-approved trend on this list, it’s actually surprisingly practical. Paper-thin slip skirts (like this Free People style) and gauzy tops “offer breathability with edge—perfect for hot summer nights,” explained Danielle and Alix.  

Sculptural Statement Jewelry

Jenny Bird Lydia Earrings

Finally, per Danielle and Alix, Gen Z’s approach to accessorizing is rooted in maximalism: “Think sculptural earrings, oversized resin bangles, or a surrealist bag.” According to the stylists, who love Epifene’s chunky bangles, younger generations are prioritizing jewelry that feels like art above designer logos and brand names. 

Epifene Bangles Set