I'm a Gen Z Editor—6 Summer Trends I'm Buying During the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

Do you hear that in the distance? It's our editors practically all pulling out their credit cards at once. That's right—the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is finally here, and as expected, we've already collectively spent hundreds of dollars.
As a Gen Z editor (and one of the youngest at Who What Wear!), I know a thing or two about what trends fashion people between the ages of 18 and 25 are obsessed with. Whether I see them IRL during a "research trip" (aka dillydallying) in the Lower East Side or via my TikTok algorithm, there are six summer trends already taking over my brain and online cart this summer.
From classic ballet flats to ultra-baggy Gen Z–approved jeans, these six Gen Z summer trends are the moment right now, and thanks to Nordstrom, they're all deeply discounted during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Run—don't walk—to get them before they sell out.
Colorful Sneakers
A fun, sporty pop of color will instantly elevate any outfit, according to Gen Zer. Just look at all of the trending sneakers over the last year and a half if it's any indication of the bright, in-your-face sneakers we love.
Maxi Skirts
Personally, there's nothing more Gen Z than a flowy maxi skirt. Whether it's a slip skirt, denim, or a cargo look, we're all about this summer staple. Wear with your favorite white tank of choice to let the skirt do all the talking.
Wide-Leg Jeans
Everyone I know wears wide-leg jeans—Gen Z included. Big pants + short shirt are how my friends and I dress off-hours, so it's no surprise that Nordstrom took note and discounted a ton of oversize denim styles for the Anniversary Sale.
Ballet Flats
Is there anything easier than ballet flats? Gen Z doesn't seem to think so. This slip-on style goes so well with miniskirts, jeans, and anything in between. It's no wonder this French-inspired shoe silhouette is some of the first to sell out when discounts hit.
Elevated Basics

Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.
-
If The Row, Khaite, and Toteme Feel Too Expensive, Here Are 33 Pieces to Try Instead
Bring on the luxe-looking outfits.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Paige DeSorbo's World: Her New Book, Favorite Zara Item, and What She Loves in Her Dream Apartment
Everything going on in this It girl's universe.
By Bobby Schuessler
-
If The Row, Khaite, and Toteme Feel Too Expensive, Here Are 33 Pieces to Try Instead
Bring on the luxe-looking outfits.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
If You Love the Row But Your Budget Is Under $200, Then Here's What You Should Shop From Nordstrom
Trust me.
By Audry Hiaoui
-
It's Music Festival Season—40 Styles the Chicest Festivalgoers Are Considering
Your shopping guide awaits!
By Chichi Offor
-
I Mostly Shop for Prescription Glasses Online—4 Retailers That Sell *Actually* Cute Frames
Your guide to chic frames awaits.
By Chichi Offor
-
9 Top, Jeans, and Shoe Outfit Combos That Fashion People Will Be Wearing This Spring
I plan to re-create these ASAP.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
I'm a Fashion Editor—42 Things I'm Buying for My Chicest Spring Yet
From Jacquemus to Gap.
By Anna LaPlaca
-
I Never Wear These Outdated Staples Anymore—6 I'm Buying to Freshen Things Up
Clearing out.
By Eliza Huber
-
These $30 Gap Sandals Are Just as Cool as the $650 Pair That's Been on My Mind Since Last Spring
They are currently on sale for just $17.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes