8 Major Summer Fashion Trends That Are Already in Your Closet

The great thing about living in the age of online shopping and Amazon Prime memberships is that pretty much anything you'd ever want to buy is just a few clicks away. When it comes to clothing, that's especially true. We've fallen down plenty of holes lately, searching for the perfect wedding guest look or trying to find latest item going viral on TikTok. But, what if we told you the absolute best fashion trends for summer 2021 are actually free-99? Well, it's true — because there's a good chance many, if not all, are already sitting in your closet.

You've probably heard by now that throwback looks are resurfacing, and on top of that, seasonless fashion is on the rise. Classics are reigning supreme, and the spicer, more statement-making styles can easily be DIY'd or replicated with a few quick tricks.

Take a look at what's worth re-wearing for the season ahead, and if you're still stumped on how to style these items for modern day? We've got plenty of summer outfit ideas to inspire you, too.

Mini Skirts

We'll always have a soft spot in our hearts for midis and maxis, but with the return of sexy '00s fashion, we're loving this leggy look that works for just about any occasion.

How to Wear Mini Skirts For Summer 2021: Make your mini feel more understated with an oversized shirt and 'ugly' sandals, or go full Y2K with a crocheted halter neck or crop top — and don't forget your baguette bag and claw clip!

Puff Sleeves

Puff sleeves refuse to leave our rotation, yet somehow, they're always whimsical and fun instead of stale and boring. It's possible you've already stocked up on voluminous blanket dresses in 2020, so feel free to break them out once again.

How to Wear Puff Sleeves For Summer 2021: We're feeling fashion's bold, chaotic vibe as of late, and while big-sleeved tops and dresses can turn heads all on their own, feel free to get even more OTT. Add a pair of statement earrings, opt for lace-up sandals, or even reach for bow details to turn it full cottagecore.

Crop Tops

Skin is especially in for 2021, and if you don't already own backless designs or something with cutouts (another major trend that's bubbling up), you can go the belly-baring route — even if it means cutting or knotting an old tee.

How to Wear Crop Tops For Summer 2021: Use this one to balance out bottoms that offer more coverage, such as Bermudas, bike shorts, and baggy jeans or trousers on a chilly day. Playing around with different proportions or fit (loose vs. tight) will create an outfit that's interesting to look at.

Straps and Strings

It's time to go full '00s popstar and play around with string details. If you own a dress that ties at the shoulder, skip the neat bows and crisscross your straps or tie them to one side instead. TikTok has even shown us that even a basic cami can be transformed into anything from a strappy halterneck to a skirt, and that there are also ways to play around with shoelaces to create a handful of looks. Plus, you're not imagining things — the peek-a-boo thong is also having a moment.

How to Wear Straps and Strings For Summer 2021: Of course, this trend — especially if you're DIYing it — is all about experimentation, but you really want it to be the focus of your ensemble. Don't pair these pieces anything too loud in order to let your strappy something shine.

Scarves

Another piece that can be turned into something brand new for #ShotGirlSummer? A scarf. Fasten it around your neck to add flair to your outfit, use it as a hair accessory, or (if it's long enough, or can be tucked into a bralette) wrap it around your body and style it as a top.

How to Wear Scarves For Summer 2021: Grab a chain necklace and knot the scarf in the center before securing it around your neck. Then, grab the two sides of the the scarf, bring down and around your chest area, and tie it in back. It should now look like the above top, while making use of old pieces sitting in your drawer.

Boots

Despite the fact that boots are typically considered a fall and winter staple, warm weather styles are becoming pretty popular. Even model Irina Shayk is a fan of the summer boot, and included one in her collaboration with Tamara Mellon.

How to Wear Boots For Summer 2021: Use this shoe as a way to make fancy summer staples, like sundresses, into an outfit that's more relaxed. You can even wear your favorite knee-high pair with the aforementioned mini skirt, providing a bit of balance.

Oversized Shirts

Chances are you own fair share of button-downs, which is good news, since baggy shirts and tees are once again a key part of the summer rotation. They're essentially the perfect throw-on-and-go piece: they can be worn with just about any bottom, work as a swimsuit coverup, and even be layered like a light sweater.

How to Wear Oversized Shirts For Summer 2021: Wear your button-down with Bermuda shorts and slides for a full relaxed look, or use one to replace your go-to jacket, styling it over a crop top or sundress when things get chilly.

Large Sunglasses

After a multiple-year run, it seems as if those teeny tiny, '90s-inspired sunglasses are on their way out, being replaced with glamorous, oversized options once again. Go ahead and dig them out of your collection to enjoy some full coverage this season.

How to Wear Large Sunglasses For Summer 2021: Try your hand at the '70s trend and style these babies with flares, crochet, and fringe. You can also wear your oversized shades with basics, using them as the statement piece in an otherwise simple outfit.