When it comes to the summer months, navigating the world of tops can prove to be a little tricky. After all, these shirts, t-shirts and tanks not only have to look good, they have to be comfortable enough to wear through hot days without looking disheveled within a few hours of leaving the house. Summer tops have to be wardrobe workhorses, able to go from the office, to weekends, to holidays, and to be paired with a variety of styles, ranging from casual shorts to tailored linen trousers.
On top of these requirements, I want my tops to really capture the summer mood. Crisp whites are of course a must, but I also want styles in earthy, sun-soaked hues. When it comes to textures, organic, breathable materials are essential, meaning linen and cotton are at the top of my summer wish list.
Luckily, it looks like this season's trending stop styles tick all of these boxes—and even better, most of the looks feel especially timeless, meaning you can confidently invest in one of these styles this summer knowing you'll be getting plenty of use out of them for many summers to come. Classic and versatile, these top styles will pair with so many pieces you probably already own, and a number of them could also be layered to create fresh looks for the cooler months, too. Here, discover my pick of the best summer top styles, and the on-trend pieces at the top of my covet-it list.
See the 5 Summer Top Trends to Wear With Skirts, Shorts & Trousers:
1. Linen
Style Notes: A true summer classic that will never go out of style, a linen shirt is the kind of piece you'll never regret owning. Breathable, light, and beautifully textured, this shirt can take you anywhere, from the office to the beach. If you already own the staple white linen shirt, consider investing in a colourful alternate this season.
Shop the Look:
Style with white shirts, sandals and a woven bag.
Butter yellow is a very on-trend colour this season, but this style also comes in a rainbow of other hues.
Wear with tailored trousers to the office, and open over a swimsuit on the beach.
How gorgeous is this whole set?
I love the boxy fit.
2. Bandeau
Style Notes: Perhaps as part of the Y2K style revival, the bandeau top is well and truly back. Make it feel 2024-appropriate by balancing the strapless style with tailored trousers or the very popular voluminous maxi skirt.
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Such an elevated take on the bandeau top.
I love this whole look—you could style with trainers for a more casual look, or colourful kitten heels for a slightly more polished ensemble.
Yes, please.
Sculptural bandeau tops are a huge hit among stylish tastemakers, and this STAUD version is a brilliant example.
A Carrie Bradshaw-worthy bandeau top.
3. Striped Shirt
Style Notes: If you're keen to avoid the typical summer prints of florals, consider this style your sleek seasonal alternative. Like the linen shirt, it's a versatile piece that can be paired with white trousers (as Nnenna expertly demonstrates) as well as worn open over a bikini and shorts on your next summer holiday.
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I'm a big fan of the oversized fit.
This green stripe is perfect for summer.
The linen blend makes it especially useful for summer.
How cool is this mix of stripes?
A minimalist's dream piece.
4. Tie Waistcoat
Style Notes: I've spotted so many influencers sporting the tie-front vest over the past few months. It's the kind of effortless and understatedly sexy piece that feels perfect for summer. Wear yours with baggy or straight-leg jeans or a voluminous white skirt for a particularly on-trend look.
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No one would believe this is a high street piece.
The pattern gives this a subtle French vibe.
I love this dusty pink.
The collar detail is so cool. This would go particularly well with the trending capri pant.
This knitted style is so cute.
5. Long Vest
Style Notes: Waistcoats pop up every season, but for summer it looks like the longline silhouette is the style to go for. This sleek shape goes beautifully with tailored trousers or long skirts to create a polished summer ensemble.
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Pockets? I'm sold.
The square neckline is so gorgeous.
This collared version would be particularly great for evening wear.
Tick off the bandeau trend too with this modern take on a classic look.
Want a little more definition? This belted style is a perfect option.
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