From jelly shoes to Bermuda shorts, you may remember wearing many of this summer’s trends the first time they were cool. But being older and wiser doesn’t mean you have to let the 20-somethings, with their ironic attachments to kitsch from the 80s and 90s, have all the fun.
With the right styling you can embrace these pieces, give your wardrobe a modern edge and prove that fashion doesn’t have an age lim14802753it. Here’s how to wear five of summer’s boldest looks with elegance and ease…
1) Chic Bermuda shorts
Shorts, £86, boden.com
They’re back and they’re everywhere. The Bermuda shorts have returned and this season’s versions are smart, tailored and surprisingly flattering. If you’re a grown-up who wants to wear shorts, this thigh-friendly variety are the way to do it. The trick? Go for clean lines, structured shapes and a high waist in crisp cotton or linen. Think off-duty Princess Diana – and definitely leave the denim versions to the teens. Style with classic flats or grown-up sandals, they don’t need to be worn with heels. Good for weekends, the office and on holiday, this is a trend with surprising versatility. To keep proportions flattering, opt for hems that skim just above or below the knee.
Shorts, £49.99, mango. com
2) Grown-up jelly shoes
Yes, jelly shoes. Before you recoil at the memory of sunburned shoulders and sandy feet, consider this: The Row, the high temple of quiet luxury, has given them its blessing. The adult version is subtle, sleek and city-ready. Skip the childish colours and opt for elegant tones – black, navy, or translucent neutrals. A streamlined jelly ballet flat adds a playful edge to summer dresses or relaxed denim. Comfort is key, but bear in mind that jelly doesn’t mould like leather – size up slightly for a more forgiving fit.
3) Refined crochet
Stripe knit dress, £195, meandem.com
Crochet isn’t just reserved for the beach or for Sienna Miller wannabes wafting around Glastonbury. Designers like Gabriela Hearst are proving that it can be sculptural, elevated and even red carpet-ready.
This summer, embrace crochet with a grown-up twist – think neutral palettes (ivory, beige and black rather than intense rainbow brights) and structured silhouettes.
Whether you’re on a Mediterranean getaway or simply daydreaming about one, a touch of crochet instantly brings a laid-back sensibility to your wardrobe. Avoid overly revealing styles – the key is coverage.
Top, £148, reiss.com
4) Edgy studs
Rhodes stud belt, £40, freepeople.com
Let’s be clear: we’re talking accessories, not punk-era leather jackets. Over a certain age, the sophisticated way to channel the stud trend is via shoes, belts and bags. Studded ballet flats – popularised by Alaïa – led the way, then Acne Studios and Khaite added attitude to handbags and belts. Used sparingly, a sprinkling of studs is a stylish way to give your look a modern, slightly rebellious twist.
5) Elegant butter yellow
Midi dress, £130, nobodyschild.com
Now, pale yellow is not known for its flattering properties. But this particular yellow, which is pale and refined rather than garish, is instantly youthful. This summer, buttery pastel tones are being reimagined as elegant neutrals. When paired with black, white or beige, a soft yellow jacket, trouser or skirt can elevate your look into something quietly luxurious. But never go head-to-toe; a single piece in yellow is far more polished.
6) One to avoid: the milkmaid dress
Romantic, puff-sleeved and impossibly twee, the milkmaid dress has become a Gen-Z favourite – but it’s one trend that’s best admired from afar.
Ruffled tiers and corseted bodices often look costume-like, and risk veering into parody on anyone over 25.
