Not so long ago, it may have been inconceivable to imagine how much social media would influence the world, yet we've now reached a point where it's just as unimaginable to think of life without it. Love it or hate it, social platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest have changed how we view every aspect of our lives—especially our personal style. There's no more straightforward example of this than the various fashion aesthetics, popular brands, and micro-trends that have become viral sensations overnight. Admittedly during the summer, there seems to be no shortage of buzzy things to adopt—from swimwear trends to travel trends, the list goes on. But none are more important (in my mind) than the clothing brands everyone is wearing. The benefit of keeping up with buzzy fashion brands is that it is a great way to tap into the cultural moment in a way that's tailored to your sartorial preferences. You don't have to buy into every single trend on the internet, but rather just the brands you're most excited about. Which leads one to wonder, what fashion brands are trending right now? In search of that answer, I combed through social media and our editorial slack channels to identify the seven most popular summer clothing brands. You've likely already seen these brands without realizing it, but I'm breaking down why they are the best for the summer. Trust me when I say there's something ahead for everyone...
Siedrés was founded in 2019 by the Turkish husband and wife Ceylin Türkkan Bilge and Emir Bilge. It's a contemporary ready-to-wear label that's caught the attention of the fashion set for its vibrantly-hued pieces that often feature nostalgic details (e.g., ruffles or psychedelic prints). They're the types of items you'd want to pack for some destination by the Mediterranean.
How goregous is this dress though?
Perfect for that upcoming concert.
You can wear this skirt long after the vacation is over.
The beading on this dress is so cool.
Unless you're off the grid, you're likely already well-acquainted with Reformation. However, it's worth the reminder that this brand continues to be beloved by the fashion set, summer after summer. Part of that appeal concerns the brand's continued dedication to sustainable production practices since its founding in 2009. But beyond that, what's made this brand popular is its wide range of apparel, footwear, and bags that are ideal for special occasions (and beyond).
No one does a matching set like Reformation.
So elegant.
You can wear this skirt on the weekends or during the work-week.
Peak summertime.
Let's set the record straight; no trend comes out of nowhere—designers always bring them into the zeitgeist. One of the most recent examples is the floral appliqué's rise. No other brand has been as widely accredited for helping 3D flowers blossom to the level of popularity they have now as Magda Butrym. While some might just be discovering the Polish designer, the ready-to-wear and accessories label has actually been around since 2014. It's grown a cult following over the years because of its ultra-feminine pieces that champion craftsmanship.
Put something on your calendar, just so you can wear this dress.
Magda Butrym's floral shoes have gone viral this summer (for a good reason)!
NGL, this bag makes me want to sing, "I'm a barbie girl, in a barbie world."
Swimwear has never been more perfect for the gram. Pair with the matching Bikini Top ($300).
So many formerly "dated" mall brands have gone through their own form of a renaissance—J. Crew happens to be one of them. The brand's transformation has been led by a new wave of talent at the helm, including the head of women's design, Olympia Gayot. While initially, the thing that caught many people's attention was Gayot's social media presence, her work has kept her on the radar of many fashion people. Collections have been filled with preppy essentials—e.g., linen button-downs, crochet dresses, ballet flats, and so on—that are extremely wearable and sharable for summer.
Everything about this maxi dress is perfect—from the deep v-neck to the ruching at the waist to the double-straps.
Is it even summertime if you don't wear crochet?
Linen trousers are a must-have for the summer—luckily, J.Crew came in clutch with this pair.
J.Crew's shoes are suprisingly good.
What comes to mind when you think of the quintessential brand that the fashion set is packing for a vacation? Everyone may have different responses, but nine times out of ten, the only correct answer is Christopher Esber. The Australian designer launched their namesake womenswear label back in 2010 and has become known for its contemporary approach to traditionally feminine silhouttes. It's not just that Esber's pieces are pretty, but the designer adds design details (e.g., cutouts, hardware, and vibrant colors) to create pieces that beg to be photographed in a far-off destination.
Ideal for a summetime wedding.
The cutout detail makes this simple tank feel sultry.
You'll want to zoom-in to see the hardware on this skirt.
Christopher Esber, you really can do no wrong.
There must be something in the water down under because another Australian-based clothing brand is making serious waves with the fashion set this summer: Dissh. Founded by Lucy Henry-Hicks in 2001, the designer set out to create a label that creates an arsenal of elegant, seasonless, foundational staples that women around the world can wear. It's achieved this aim (and subsequent popularity) through its offering that includes '90s-inspired suiting separates, tailored dresses, and cozy knitwear.
A draped linen dress? Don't mind if I do.
The scoop neck adds a special-touch to this waistcoat.
Dissh's linen separates will become one of your most beloved wardrobe staples.
NGL, my jaw droped the first-time I saw the drop-waist on this dress.
With so much of the discourse on social media surrounding the concept of low-key luxury, it's no surprise that the Australian label Posse has blown up this summer. Ironically though, this slow-fashion brand took a long time to go viral on social media. Founded by Danielle Mulham in 2016, this label produces vintage-inspired ready-to-wear pieces in small batches. For a brand that's all about creating long-lasting clothing, it's fulfilling to finally see it get the flowers and fit grams it rightfully deserves. Though getting to that point of going "viral" can be daunting, for so many brands, social media is the way to evolve the label on a larger scale and engage with us in new ways. And on the flip side, seeing how these brands are worn out in the wild by others can make discerning what brands to add to our summer wardrobes a bit easier. Social media has its flaws, but it's also got the direct receipts on what brands, trends, and ideas are actually taking off—that in and of itself is something to appreciate.
So pretty!
A little linen top is never a bad idea.
Barbie would approve.
Just think of all the ways you can wear this dress for the rest of the summer.
