When it comes to party dressing, there are a few foolproof ways to shine — no matter the occasion. And this season, celebrities and brands are endorsing a trend that’s pushing us into futuristic territory: foil-like metallics.
Party-ready embellishments and fabrics have dominated fashion trends for the past few seasons — from body jewelry clothing to feathers and sequins — so this trend is only joining a myriad of possibilities for spring nights ahead.
Yet, unlike the giant paillettes, fringed skirts, and metal mesh garments we’ve seen so far, it offers more wearability. Yes, the fabric choices may be loud and somewhat reminiscent of times in the kitchen, but there are a few styling options that make it safe for the streets. Take a cue from Kelsey Randall, pairing a foil dress with cowboy boots for a daytime-to-nightclub ensemble. Or, sport a silver metallic blazer dress to celebrate being extra – and proud – in one simple garment. If nothing else works, you can always grab actual foil (at your own risk).
Ahead, take a look at some options available to channel the trend this holiday season.
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It can be argued that warmer weather makes it easier to get dressed. No more fussing with jackets and bulky layers; oftentimes, the perfect summer outfit consists of shorts and a T-shirt or a breezy slip dress. However, if the goal is to take this year’s rotation up a notch, there are plenty of statement summer 2023 fashion trends worth adding to your closet.
Summer is also all about ease, so in that same spirit, we aimed to make this quest to spice up your wardrobe stress-free. Not only have we rounded up eight summer fashion trends from our favorite collections, but we’ve also found a handful of great shoppable pieces, at a variety of different price points, to help you nail the look.
So, whether your goal is to enhance what you already own with a few key items, or you think it might be time for a full, fashion-forward overhaul, allow this list of summer 2023 fashion trends to act as your ultimate guide, to kick off the season in style.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Summer Trend 2023: Bermuda Shorts
There’s always room in our drawers for cutoffs and hotpants, but if you’re looking for some real versatility this season, Bermuda shorts are your best bet. If you need proof, both Chanel and Tom Ford included the versatile knee-length design in their spring/summer collections. Style the breezy bottom with a button-down for days at the office, then swap the shirt out for a bikini top on your days off.Photo (left to right): Courtesy of Tom Ford, Chanel, Givenchy
J.Crew Bermuda Stretch Chino Short, $, available at J.Crew— PAID CONTENT —
Ultra-baggy jeans aren’t the only ‘90s denim trend to make a comeback — enter the denim Bermuda short. This pair boasts a loose, slouchy fit and a mid-rise waist, while patchwork details ensure they’re anything but your average denim cutoffs.
Levi's 501® 90s Women’s Shorts, $, available at Levi's
COS Tailored Linen-Blend Bermuda Shorts, $, available at COS
Summer Trend 2023: Mini Fit-and-Flare Dresses
Considering styles from the ‘90s and Y2K have already made their comebacks, it’s only fair that the 2010s are next — which means it’s time to make room in your closet for a fit-and-flare dress. Summer 2023’s version is super short, just like the mini collared option that popped up at Loewe, making it the perfect pick for 80-degree weather and up.Photo (left to right): Courtesy of Ludovic de Saint Sernin, Loewe, Giambattista Valli
Loewe Striped Crepe Mini Dress, $, available at Net-A-Porter
Lulus Darling Delight Fuchsia Skater Dress, $, available at Lulus
If we had to pick a favorite summer shoe, it would be a slide sandal for how easy to slip on right as you’re heading out the door. For 2023, the footwear trend has become a bit more elevated — literally. Platform options that were voluminous all the way around were all the rage at Proenza Schouler, Fendi, and more, and proved to pair just as well with bikinis as they do with sparkly dresses.Photo (left to right): Courtesy of Fendi, Monica Feudi/Proenza Schouler, JW Anderson
Simon Miller White Taffy Slides, $, available at SSENSE
Jeffrey Campbell Y2k Puffy Platform Sandals, $, available at Free People
Summer Trend 2023: The Little Mermaidcore
Blame it on the excitement around one of summer’s most anticipated films, the live-action version of The Little Mermaid, but mermaidcore is everywhere this season. It’s up to you how you want to interpret the trend, whether it’s by opting for Dior-inspired fishnet material or rocking a purple and seafoam color scheme, similar to what we spotted at Prabal Gurung.Photo (left to right): Courtesy of Valentino, Dan Lecca/Prabal Gurung, Cynthia Rowley
Urban Renewal Remnants Mesh Cropped Tank Top, $, available at Urban Outfitters
Stine Goya Julius Hobo Bag, $, available at Stine Goya
While brighter, more vibrant colors typically dominate between the months of May and September, brands like Tory Burch and Valentino really embraced all-black everything for summer 2023. The good news is, the very same pieces will still fly once things cool off again.Photo (left to right): Courtesy of Altuzarra, Tory Burch, Dan Lecca/Jason Wu
Tory Burch Pleated-Hem Skirt, $, available at Tory Burch
Pilcro Racerback Tank, $, available at Anthropologie
Victor Glemaud One-Shoulder Knit Midi-Dress, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Summer Trends 2023: Metallic Bags
Even if your summer outfit is fairly simple, you’ll be able to amp things up with some of the season’s hottest accessories, including metallic bags. Throw it back to the days of playing dress-up as a kid with Coach’s golden jelly bag or channel your inner Taylor Swift, since the singer was recently spotted toting a silver, chainmail Paco Rabanne purse.Photo (clockwise from top left): Courtesy of Cecilie Bahnsen, Simkhai, Coach
Nina Minaudière Top Handle Bag, $, available at Nordstrom
Paco Rabanne 1969 Moon Disc-Link Shoulder Bag, $, available at Bergdorf Goodman
Summer Trends 2023: Fringe
Fringe is a trend that continues to pop up every few seasons, and it’s easy to see why it’s in again for summer 2023. The embellishment can be both subtle or elaborate depending on placement and material, so whether you want to make a major statement or are simply hoping to add a little flair, you’ll find an option that’ll suit your style.Photo (left to right): Courtesy of Bronx And Banco, Puppets and Puppets, Bevza
PatBo Metallic Cut-Out Fringe Minidress, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Superdown Elaine Fringe Dress, $, available at Revolve
Summer Trends 2023: Lace
Underwear as outerwear has been trending for a few months, but summer 2023 is perhaps the best time to test it out for yourself (without risking goosebumps). You don’t have to step out of the house in actual undergarments. Instead, opt for pieces with lace panels that give off the same vibe as lingerie.Photo (left to right): Courtesy of Christopher Kane, Dion Lee, David Spector/Collina Strada
Reformation Cristina Top, $, available at Reformation
Danielle Guizio Babydoll Slip Dress, $, available at Danielle Guizio
ASOS DESIGN Satin Lace Trim Mini Skirt, $, available at ASOS
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Spring is here — and that means the spring/summer 2023 fashion trends we saw on the runways months ago are about to be in full bloom. After the dark days of winter, ’tis the season for revival and reinvigoration, so we’re expecting our outfits to follow suit. If you can’t quite remember what was happening on the catwalks late last year, we don’t blame you. We’re also here to help by refreshing both your memory and your warm-weather wardrobe.
Ahead is our list of the biggest fashion trends that spanned the shows from New York to London to Milan to Paris, all of which can finally be integrated into your wardrobe. While not every one of them is big with a capital B, (spoiler alert) the blazers and the handbags actually are. And whether it’s embracing your inner Lara Croft in this season’s amped-up utilitarian attire or transforming yourself into a human disco ball courtesy of party-ready metallics, fashion is giving us plenty of opportunity to have fun. But where to begin?
We’ve assembled the key pieces, colors, accessories, and aesthetics to kick things off this spring with your most stylish foot forward. By that we mean in a pair of dazzling ballet flats, but more on that below.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 18: Paloma Elsesser walks the runway during the Nensi Dojaka Ready to Wear Spring/Summer 2023 fashion show as part of the London Fashion Week on September 18, 2022 in London United Kingdom. (Photo by Victor VIRGILE/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images)
Step up your 2023 shoe game by slipping on your favorite flats from the early aughts with a high-fashion edge. Be it pointy-toes or classic ballet flats, these nostalgic styles are back and better than ever with rhinestone embellishments (Nensi Dojaka), daring mesh detailing (Emporio Armani), and sharp silhouettes.
Spring Trend 2023: Drop Waists
Not ready to give up last summer’s corset styles just yet? Then the curve-hugging, drop-waist dress trend — Ã la Gabriela Hearst, Carolina Herrera, and Sandy Liang — is for you. With waistbands falling just above the top of your hips, this torso-lengthening look comes with the sculptural appeal of a corset and the added bonus of a bottom half that’s loose and flowing.
Spring Trend 2023: Shades Of Purple
A recent trend report from Worth Global Style Network found that the color purple is an increasingly popular choice among young shoppers who appreciate its gender-inclusive allure. We spotted the trending hue in a variety of ways at the SS23 shows, with Adam Lippes opting for a very light lilac, Prabal Gurung going for lavender, and Tibi trying out plum and orchid shades. For bold dressers interested in the sheer styles that also dominated the SS23 runways, choosing a dark purple see-through piece is a great way to adopt this daring look without feeling totally exposed.
220918 Rejina Pyo SS23 Catwalk show London Fashion Week Credit: Ben Broomfield Credit Social: @photobenphoto Copyright: Ben Broomfield Photography 07734 852620 photo@benbroomfield.com www.benbroomfield.com
This spring, big blazers mean big business. The oversized take on the closet staple is reflective of an industry whose rules have become more flexible and easy-going in recent years. Breezy styles from of-the-minute brands like Khaite and Rejina Pyo prove that the boxier, the better.
If you like big blazers, might we suggest the trend’s equally large cousin: the supersized tote. Industry heavy hitters like Louis Vuitton, Givenchy, and Bottega Veneta are making the case for extra-large bags that are big enough to eclipse your torso, making this accessory the center of attention that just so happens to fit everything you need to get through the day… and then some.
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Amazon is a trove of deeply affordable summer dresses begging to be shopped. With a stable of surprisingly shoppable in-house brands, including must-have viral products and high-end dresses curated by Shopbop, the site’s already-expansive selection of closet candy seems to know no bounds. As summer kicks into high gear, if a spendy frock isn’t exactly what you (or your wallet) are in the market for right now, there’s a sea of budget-friendly, casual, and flirty dresses to be unearthed within Amazon’s universe of stuff. Sit back, it's time to immerse yourself in Amazon summer dresses all under $100.
To update our carousel of warm-weather attire, we went digging for the breeziest frocks to add to the cart along with all our other summer essentials (ahem,beach hats, countless sunglasses, and rows of swimsuits). And, in the spirit of keeping our finances in check, we limited our search to under-$100 garments only — distilling the bountiful findings into a streamlined must-shop list of everything from pretty tiered maxis to printed minis to laid-back shirt dresses. Ahead, click through our roundup of the most affordable and best summer dresses on Amazon that you can score now.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
The Adella Slip Dress is one of Free People's most popular styles because of its dainty silhouette. The asymmetrical hem, lace trim, and smocked design add to the fairy aesthetic designed for frolicking. "The dress is super comfy and cute dress with a nice spin factor for anyone that loves a nice twirly dress for dancing. I was worried it would be too short but I’m 5’8” and it fit perfectly," writes a reviewer.
Free People Adella Slip Dress, $, available at Amazon
BTFBM Ruffle Cap Sleeve V-Neck Boho Maxi Dress
Lightweight and breezy, the ruffle maxi is a summer staple for its effortless styling capabilities. The chiffon fabric is soft on the skin and comfortable to wear on a scorching, humid day. "I ordered my true-to-size (M), and it fit perfectly. The fabric is not itchy, which is a huge plus! Personally, I like to wear the detachable belt to accentuate my waist," explains a reviewer. "The length hit me about mid-calf. I have worn it multiple times, and it washes well if you wash it cold and line dry. I also used a steamer on it in a gentle setting, and it held up great."
Here's a breezy shirt dress perfect for a picnic or BBQ. It's especially great for petites given its shorter hem: "I love this dress. It’s pretty TTS. I’m 5’3” and a normal medium. This fits great. It falls just above my knee for a perfect length! I love the pockets too," writes a reviewer.
Amazon Essentials Sleeveless Woven Shirt Dress, $, available at Amazon
AlvaQ Spaghetti Strap Button Down Mini Dress
This simple, loose-fitting spaghetti strap shift has been rated almost 20k times on Amazon. "I LOVE this dress! It fits perfectly, just above the knee (I'm 5'7"). It doesn't run small, it's not tight anywhere, nor does not show any bulges or bumps," explains a reviewer. "The dress is lined with a sewn-in thin smooth cotton lining, so it will stay cool during the summer. The perfect dress to wear to a wine tasting, out to lunch, or garden party type setting."
AlvaQ Spaghetti Strap Button Down Sleeveless Mini Dress, $, available at Amazon
Prettygarden Floral V-Neck Summer Wrap Dress
If you're looking for a summer wrap dress that works well with various body types, this one might be it. "I love how light and flowy the dress was. The waistband has a good amount of stretch, which is very comfortable," shares a reviewer. "I wore it as a wedding guest, and it was perfect. I’m glad I sized down; the L was perfect. The dress is pretty well built; the snap closure is a good spot on the chest, the lining is soft, and the stitching is secure."
Prettygarden Floral V-Neck Summer Wrap Dress, $, available at Amazon
HBEYYTO Short Sleeve Flowy Mini Dress
If you're into a classic babydoll mini dress, the kind that you can simply throw on like an oversized T-shirt, allow this one to be your latest closet reach. "I cannot emphasize enough how lightweight and breathable this dress is! As a plus-sized woman, it can be hard to find dresses flattering to a larger belly area (especially shorter dresses that don't show too much), but this dress is perfect," says a reviewer. "On colder days, I add leggings under it, but I am completely comfortable with the length and fit to wear without leggings and not feel exposed to the whole world."
HBEYYTO Short Sleeve Flowy Mini Dress, $, available at Amazon
Exlura Tie Back Square Neck Mini Dress
It's the delicate lantern sleeves and tie-back detail that does it for us! "This dress was so light and airy- I wore it to my bachelorette party in August and kept me nice and cool. I’m 5’6, 220 lbs and the XL fit perfect. I would highly recommend the style!" writes a reviewer.
Exlura Tie Back Square Neck Mini Dress, $, available at Amazon
Goodthreads Georgette Smock-Back Cami Maxi Dress
If length is what you're going for, this maxi with pockets shows just a hint of ankle. "I bought this dress for a trip to Mexico, and loved wearing it. It was comfortable and breezy in the hot/humid weather," writes a reviewer. "The fabric is flowy and didn't stick to my pear-shaped curves — it skimmed them and was very flattering."
Goodthreads Georgette Smock-Back Cami Maxi Dress, $, available at Amazon
DKNY Faux Wrap Dress
Dig a little in the Amazon racks and tried-and-true brands like DKNY will turn up. This flowy number is a bit more put-together, ideal for a summer soiree. "This dress is gorgeous and perfect for wedding season! It’s very comfortable and flattering. Plus, if you have a smaller chest, you may need to use fabric tape to keep the top part from falling open when you sit down. I did that and it worked perfectly!" advises a reviewer.
DKNY Women's Faux Wrap Dress, $, available at Amazon
Naggoo Ruffle Short Sleeve Mini Floral Dress
How darling is this summer dress! The wrap detail, the crossover top, the ruffle hem, the floral print...this is a frock begging to be seen. "This dress is absolutely fantastic. The fabric is comfortable. It's lightweight with some texture to it. Also, it doesn't have a cheap feeling at all. I am a size 8 generally and 5'3, about 150lbs right now. I have a 34D chest. I ordered a medium and it fits like a dream," writes one enthusiastic reviewer.
Naggoo Ruffle Short Sleeve Mini Floral Dress, $, available at Amazon
The Drop Ana Silky V-Neck Midi Slip Dress
The R29 Shopping team's own Karina Hoshikawa reviewed this unassuming but stunning slip dress a few years ago — and it still remains one of Amazon Fashion's best-kept secrets. Hoshikawa writes, "The color is on point. The price is right. The shipping was free and fast. It's comfortable. It's cute. It can be dressed up or down with minimal styling effort required. But, perhaps best of all, the length was actually a true midi — aka hitting right at the calf on my 5'2 frame."
The Drop Ana Silky V-Neck Midi Slip Dress, $, available at Amazon
Calvin Klein Ribbed Scoop Neck Midi Dress
We love a classic spring dress. This knit midi comes from Calvin Klein, and it's ribbed, slightly bodycon, and has buttons down the front, which means you could also essentially where it open, belted, and layered over another outfit.
Calvin Klein Ribbed Scoop Neck Midi Dress, $, available at Amazon
Bsubseach Crochet Cover Up
On the topic of beach coverups, this high-neck crochet style actually happens to be an Amazon 'trending' fashion item with its recent spike in sales. It seems like shoppers are ready for seaside adventures, and this dress is a must-pack. "I bought this for a Caribbean cruise and added a floppy hat and cute sandals and I looked (and felt) like a celebrity," writes a reviewer. "I'm not always super confident walking around in my bathing suit, but this has just the right amount of skin showing to leave you feeling sexy yet modest."
Bsubseach Crochet Cover Up, $, available at Amazon
Dokotoo Casual Short Sleeve Side Split Button Down
Because of the button-down design, you could wear this dress in many ways, depending on the occasion and how revealing you want to go. "I bought this for a last-minute outfit to Dubai and it was a HIT. I styled a belt with it and it slayed! Now I want every color. It's comfy and the material is breathable," writes a reviewer.
Dokotoo Casual Short Sleeve Side Split Button Down, $, available at Amazon
Ecowish Plaid Sleeveless Summer Casual Sundress
Bring on all the gingham this summer, especially if "picnic in the park" is your vibe. Here's one review that hits on all the main highlights you need to know: "Wow this is just as cute in person as it is online. It's made from a very soft fabric. Also, a bonus perk is that it has pockets! I cannot wait for a perfect spring and summer day."
Ecowish Plaid Sleeveless Summer Casual Sundress, $, available at Amazon
Romwe Romantic Off-Shoulder Mini Dress
If going "extra" is on your list — whether it's for a wedding or you simply enjoy princesswear (us, too) — make sure this fluttery, ruffly, showstopper-y dress is in your closet.
Romwe Romantic Off Shoulder Mini Dress, $, available at Amazon
Kirundo Puff Sleeve Cut-Out Dress
What do you get when you cross a puff-sleeve dress with a cutout dress? Why, you get this under-$45 dress that's simply charming and sexy (while still keeping you covered), of course.
Kirundo Puff Sleeve Cut Out Dress, $, available at Amazon
Mitilly Boho Polka Dot Midi Dress
With 4 out of 5 stars and over 14.5K reviews, this midi dress has shoppers doing the polka for sure. "This is one of my favorite dress purchases of all time! I love a good retro dress and snatched this up when it showed up in my recommendations at such a great price," writes a reviewer.
Mitilly Boho Polka Dot Midi Dress, $, available at Amazon
Zesica One Shoulder Tiered Mini Dress
What has caught our eye about this summer dress is the blend of less obvious (but still all super stylish) fashion trends: the one-shoulder strap, the pleated fabrication, the tiered flounce, and the loose fit. We'd get this in multiple hues for its gentle price point.
Zesica One Shoulder Tiered Mini Dress, $, available at Amazon
PYGFEMR Short Sleeve Babydoll Dress
It's no secret that this babydoll dress has very little shape or silhouette to it, but that's precisely the point. We think this would make for a great summer dress if you wanna throw it on and go for an easy weekend. "Since I’m bigger chested, it falls straight in front of me so I'd only wear it with a belt," writes one viewer. "It's perfect for warm weather and to accessorize. So cute!"
PYGFEMR Short Sleeve Babydoll Dress, $, available at Amazon
Halife Casual Spaghetti Strap Midi Dress with Pockets
With 4.1 out of 5 stars and over 9K reviews, this spring dress could be considered one of Amazon Fashion's classic styles. "This dress is so cute and simple! There are so many ways to style it and it fits perfectly! I always worry about the straps and length as I am very short and dresses tend to be too long or the top part hangs low on the chest but not with this dress! Only thing I wish is that the material was a little thicker. It's very thin but helps it be a little flowy," writes a reviewer.
Halife Casual Spaghetti Strap Midi Dress With Pockets, $, available at Amazon
Luvamia Denim Short Dress
Did you really think you'd get through an entire dress roundup without seeing a denim style in the mix? What we love best about this mini is the rather fitted silhouette with the varsity-style neckline. "What I surprise!! I had low expectations but was completely wrong! I love everything about this dress! The size is perfect, the quality is excellent! Love!" explains a reviewer.
Yes, we're very aware that this boho maxi dress could also look like a wedding dress (we should mention, it does come in multiple colors!) — but we simply cannot resist a lacy moment for summer. "The cut and color of this dress are very flattering. I'm 5'5" 140lbs and the Medium fit perfectly. You don't have to wear a slip under it, as the skirt and bodice are fully lined and very soft. My new favorite dress!" says a reviewer.
Bdcoco V-Neck Floral Lace Dress, $, available at Amazon
KOJOOIN Sheer Mesh Dress
While the model has fashioned this sheer dress into a beach coverup, we think that this dress would be much better suited as a layered piece over, say, a slip dress or bodysuit. The embroidered flowers are also a fun way to lean into the blooming springtime sun.
KOJOOIN Women's Sheer Mesh Dress, $, available at Amazon
Mitilly Loose Swing Casual Dress
While most of the dresses in this roundup boast a rather traditional construction, this fluttery mini dress has some unexpected details, like an asymmetrical drop empire waist, three-quarter sleeves, and the all-over ruffle hems. Unique? We'd sure say so.
"I don't usually bother writing reviews, but for this dress I had to!! I needed something feminine and youthful and fresh looking AND something that would make me look SLIMMER! JACKPOT!!" writes one enthused wearer. "I'm curvy and this dress drapes - PERFECTLY. I can even get away with wearing this to church - no tights and high heels and still look APPROPRIATE. Ladies, it takes me FOREVER to find something to hide all flaws and highlight the areas I don't mind showing off - and this dress does just that!!!"
Mitilly Loose Swing Casual Dress, $, available at Amazon
The Drop Women's Sade Linen Cut-Out Midi
There's no need to fear cutouts. This linen midi dress is both sexy and elegant, with just a sliver and a flash of skin showing at the waist. Plus, sizing goes up to 5X, which means giving this trend a go is likely feasible for most body types.
The Drop Women's Sade Linen Cut-Out Midi, $, available at Amazon
Free People Let It Happen Mini
If you can believe it, beloved fashion retailer Free People also offers its boho-chic wares on Amazon. This flowy mini dress could work great as a cover-up or even over a pair of cutoff denim shorts.
