Every summer brings a crop of new trends, some lasting and important, some frivolous and fleeting. [Stashes brat-green crop top in back of closet.] But whether you’re a “chop-your-hair-into-The-Rachel-immediately” trend-follower or fervent do-your-own-thinger, it’s good to least know what the cool kids are up to. Here, six trends that will be everywhere this season according to PureWow editors, from the drink everyone will be sipping to the meme on every TikTok feed.
New York’s Biggest Summer Trends, According to New York Chicest People
The cool-kid forecast
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Updated Jul 10, 2026
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@littlefashionstylist/@deenacampbell/IG/Vernon Yuen/NurPhoto/Shutterstock/PureWow
Belle Bakst, Fashion Editor and Content Creator (@littlefashionstylist)
Sheer Layering
“Even though this summer is turning out to be an absolute scorcher, layering isn't completely off the table. The secret for creating interesting and breathable layered looks is reaching for lightweight, sheer natural fabrics that add instant interest and keep you cool. Sheer pieces are one of the biggest trends of the season, and popped up on runways like Tory Burch, Ulla Johnson, and Ralph Lauren. Whether it's a sheer lace top over a bra, a tissue silk patterned button-down over a tank, or a breezy maxi skirt, these pieces make even the simplest summer outfit feel intentional.”
Melinda Melrose, Model, Too Hot to Handle Contestant (@melinda_melrose)
Soft-Focus, Sun-Kissed Skin
“People are moving away from heavy, overdone glam and leaning into makeup that looks expensive and lived in. Think radiant skin, creamy bronzers, glossy lips and a flush that looks like you just got back from the South of France. It feels very feminine and confident because it's less about hiding behind makeup and more about enhancing your features. I also think that after years of ultra-full coverage and matte everything, people are craving beauty that it’s fresh, breathable and romantic again.”
Nina Berezin, Food and Lifestyle Content Creator (@thequeenfoodie)
Jumbo Salmon Sushi Boxes
“Sushi takeout spots around the city have started doing these jumbo salmon boxes, and they’re presented so beautifully–thick, high-quality cuts laid out like art, that it naturally lends itself to performing great on social media. It’s genuinely beautiful to look at, and also a little outrageous, since these are definitely not bite-size pieces.”
Felicia Walker, Beauty Expert & Journalist, Skincare Educator (@ThisThatBeauty)
Repeating Looks
“The art of wearing (and rewearing) your wardrobe is becoming a much bigger conversation. And hey, I’m old enough (51!) to know this concept isn’t new, but I can’t help noticing a shift among everyday New York style enthusiasts. More and more, the real flex isn’t constantly chasing the next drop; it’s investing in pieces you genuinely love and wearing them again and again with confidence.”
@tulipsforthetable/Instagram
Madeline Scalzi, Content Creator and DIY Specialist (@tulipsforthetable)
Basket-inspired Decor
“I love that this summer we've been seeing a real resurgence in baskets and basket-inspired [design] as decorative items in and around the home. A great example is the newly renovated Connecticut home of Brunch with Babs which was once a basket maker's workshop. Content creator @kristyncole also recently did a super elaborate front porch display for July 4th inspired by the picnic basket, and berlin-based artist Maryam Keyhani took a Kate Spade-esque approach to the picnic basket in the shape of a cake, which is used as decor in Devil Wears Prada 2. In a day where AI is king and consumerism is at its absolute peak, woven fiber arts bring natural materials into our homes and not-so-subtly remind us of the power of the human hand.”
Faith Xue, Editor-in-Chief, Coveteur and EVP of Brand (@faith_xue)
PJ Dressing
“There's something about slipping on a loose, silky pajama-esque pant (or top) for summer that just feels right. Leandra Medine wrote about the phenomenon of pajama dressing in her Substack and lately, I've been spotting the look all over NYC: lace-tripped sleep shorts worn with a graphic tee, lacy mini dresses with sneakers, and matching silk sets. It's a nice contrast to all of the knit and crochet from last season (and will keep you cooler, too).”
Deena Campbell, Fashion and Beauty Director (@deenacampbell)
Hyrox Workouts
“Everywhere I look, someone is training for Hyrox, a fitness race that combines running with workout stations, including sled pushes, rowing, burpees and wall balls. It seems like the new crossfit, not just because of the physical challenge, but because it’s become such a social activity in NYC. Suddenly, everyone’s pushing carrying sandbags and swapping runs for functional fitness classes. Hyrox has definitely turned gym workouts into a sport.”
