Ask anyone for their go-to outfit during a hot summer, and I'd be willing to bet that the most popular answer is a white midi or maxi dress. Don't we all have at least one in our wardrobe? There's nothing wrong with the classics, of course, and I would never advocate throwing away a perfectly good piece of clothing. However, the same dress that had me so excited when I first bought it is now starting to feel a bit samey, and I've been busily searching for an alternative.
In my role as resident fashion editor atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing , I pay close attention to a lot of street style looks for new outfit inspiration, and this year I noticed one trend in particular—fashion people have stopped solely relying on summer dresses. Controversial, I know, but gone are the days when you couldn't move for floral maxis—from London to Lisbon, social media's best dressed are packing separates in their suitcases. And please, don't shoot the messenger.
I could talk about my love for dresses for hours on end, but with this newfound realisation, I've decided to talk about the seven summer fashion trends that have replaced them instead. Some are old favourites (linen is a wardrobe staple for a reason), others are brand new for this year, but from trousers to skirts to a healthy selection of shorts, these are the pieces you'll spot the most now that you know what to look out for.
So, whether you're a dress devotee keen to keep your outfits up-to-date, or you've already stocked up on mix-and-match bottoms and are in need of some outfit inspo, keep scrolling to see and shop the seven anti-dress trends that the fashion crowd are wearing on repeat in 2025.
Anti-Dress Trends Fashion People Are Loving This Summer:
1. Long Shorts
Style Notes: The long and short of it is, we're leaving micro hemlines behind in 2025. This year is all about the Bermuda. Denim, tailored, linen or cotton, the longer the shorts, the better—all you need to complete the look is a simple white tee or tank top and a pair of comfy flats, like Anouk, and you've nailed off-duty dressing to perfection.
Shop Long Shorts:
Although these hit just below the knee, the linen blend will keep you cool.
These might just be the most perfect shade of blue.
So classy.
2. Colour-Pop Trousers
Style Notes: Remember when dressing up meant jeans and a nice top? Allow me to introduce the equally chic, top-and-a-chic-trouser. Stick to keeping your outfit simple (like Tylynn's perfect use of black), and let a statement trouser do all of the talking. There's no need for wacky prints when a pop of colour looks so expensive. Whether you opt for pastels, jewel tones or brights, this easy formula is guaranteed to invite compliments.
Shop Bold Trousers:
The whole co-ord is great, but these trousers will go with some many pieces.
A gorgeous shade for summer and autumn alike.
The colour caught my eye, but the silhouette had me hooked.
3. Maxi Pencil Skirts
Style Notes: Make way, chic new skirt shape coming through, and if you were wondering how to do summer in the office, this could well be the answer. Maxi skirts always look elegant, but these streamlined, column skirts are like the grown-up big sister of the boho skirt, but are more laidback than the OG pencil, so you can wear them on weekends too. Did I mention how great they'll look in autumn, too?
Shop Maxi Pencil Skirts:
The length and colour makes this skirt just as versatile as trousers.
Wear now with a tank top and in autumn with a chunky cardi.
Trust the Frankie Shop to create the perfect iteration.
4. Slip Skirts
Style Notes: It's always satisfying when a trend you bought into years ago is still going the distance. For me, it's the satin slip skirt. Over the last four years, I've worn the same black slip on repeat because it's genuinely one of the hardest-working pieces in my wardrobe. Parties, shopping, dinners, work—these skirts do it all, and I'm screenshotting Leasy's shirt, skirt and sandals combo for later. It's effortless but elegant, a winning combination that I'm determined to get down to a fine art.
Shop Slip Skirts:
Cream feels so luxe. The lace trim is also a pretty touch.
Black midi skirts are a wardrobe staple year-round. They go with everything.
Such a pretty style.
5. Capri Trousers
Style Notes: It just wouldn't be a complete 2025 rundown without mentioning capris, the trouser formally known as the "pedal pusher". And yes, when we first heard the news, we were uncertain about how to pull them off as women over the age of seven, but now it's clear that capris are so much more than the trousers we wore as pre-teens. In the right hands, calf-grazing pants can be the refined alternative to casual baggy shorts. Just be sure to stick to sharp tailoring to keep the look as elevated as possible, just as Marilyn has done here.
Shop Capri Trousers:
COS has great capri trousers—they're tailored so well.
An ideal choice for hotter days thanks to the colour and fabric.
These come in a fun red gingham print too if you love splashier colours.
6. Linen Co-Ord
Style Notes: It feels wrong to call linen a "trend" as it sticks around year-in, year-out; however, doubling up on linen in a matching co-ord has felt remarkably fresh over the last three years. Cool girls everywhere are pairing matchy-matchy shorts and trousers with relaxed shirts as part of their summer rotation. Don't worry about sticking to white, though. With more options on the market than ever, you can find matching linen in just about every colour under the sun.
Shop Linen Co-Ords:
Perfect for everyday wear and bringing with you on summer holiday.
A wide-leg trouser feels laid-back and sophisticated all at once.
How beautiful is this sky blue? You can get a matching set or wear each separately.
7. A-Line Midi Skirt
Style Notes: If you adore the breezy look of a dress, but are after the convenience of separates, a midi or maxi skirt is perfect. I love how Marina styled hers with a cosy knit jumper and flats—it's a great ensemble for coastal getaways that waver between way-too-warm and a little too chilly.
Shop Midi Skirts:
The tie side is a subtle but stylish feature.
It has pockets people!
This cut and colour will take you into autumn and winter too.
8. Sport Shorts
Style Notes: ICYMI, tenniscore took over last year and is still enjoying a very stylish revival. Preppy jumpers, pleated skirts, caps and all-white ensembles have been filling my feed, but the standout item? The humble (and very retro) track short that looks best with tees, polos, cardigans and matching trainers. We aren't likely to work out in this 'fit, but no one else needs to know that...
Shop Sports Shorts:
Perfect for relaxing or long days of sight-seeing.
A chic pick if you prefer longer lengths.
These come in a bright white and pastel yellow too.
This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
-
I'm Getting a Jumpstart on Fall Shopping—33 Affordable Key Pieces You'd Find In a Wealthy Person's ClosetIt girl-approved.
-
I Haven't Worn a Dress in a Year, But These 37 From Reformation Are Making Me Want to Change ThatJust slip these on.
-
No Color Coordination, No Problem—This Summer Outfit Trend Is Pure Fashion SerotoninBask in its happiness.
-
These 31 Effortless Summer Basics Make Getting Ready So Much EasierLow lift, high reward.
-
Before It's Over, See the Chicest Dresses to Buy From Reformation's 30%-Off SaleFrom minis to midis.
-
Forget Trying Hard—This Dress Trend Is Every Stylish Woman's Secret to No-Effort DressingPutting together an outfit has literally never been easier.
-
Enjoy Your End-of-Summer Ice Cream Trips in These 26 Chic Pieces From J.Crew,Replica Store, and ZaraKeep cool without sacrificing style.
-
Put Down That Crewneck—*This* Is the Neckline Everyone Everywhere Is Wearing InsteadThrowback.
