Summer Boutique Clothing Trends

School semesters are winding down, temperatures are warming up, and now is the time to think about what will be hot for 2018’s vacation season. Here are 6 trends you’ll see and love in the next few months heading into summer. You can also take a look at our wholesale summer clothing collection on our website.  

1. Fire Up a Little Island Romance

Seemingly meant for sunny, long days and carefree getaways, the aesthetic we’re calling ‘island romance’ is one you’ll see a lot—and in many different forms—this vacation season. From flowy white dresses with delicate lace embellishments to earthy sandals and rope belts, this upcoming trend is all about neutral, pair-with-anything hues, intriguing texture and feminine allure. Stock your shelves with wearable pieces like alabaster frocks and slip-on sandals, then incorporate boho-inspired accessories and crocheted cover-ups.

2. Let’s Talk Transparencies

This phrase may be new to you, but you’ll want to know it in the coming months. Transparencies are simply garments (often tops and skirts) that star mesh bodices, net sleeves, tulle trimmings and other sheer, skin-revealing fabrics. Transparent pieces are perfect for balmy months and tropical vacations because they keep you cool while acting as a beach cover-up or night-out look. To incorporate this trend in your inventory, start small and safe to see how your customers react. While they may not go straight for a rack full of plastic jackets, your customers just may adore sheer pieces in small portions. This trend can be incredibly wearable if it appears on midi skirts, button-ups with sheer sleeves and romantic dresses complete with sheer, floral overlays.

3. Everyone’s Forever Mad About Plaid

Mad in a good way, that is. Plaid in all its fabulous forms is one of those prints that spans any season— and summer 2018 is certainly included. We love the versatility of plaid and its ability to pair well with boho-inspired, folky, feminine, edgy and militaristic ensembles. To place more plaid in your store ASAP, put the flannel button-ups away this spring and summer, and replace them on your shelves with cool cotton blends, airy silk-like fabrics and other breezy materials that will add a touch of warmth on chilly summer nights without bulk. And don’t forget that plaid isn’t just for tops! Sprinkle checkered and tartan articles throughout your store in the form of denim, warm-weather jackets and even handbags.

4. Color, Color, Color

Whether it’s a neon green à la 1991 Day-Glo, pretty pastels that resemble Easter eggs or bold prints featuring citrus fruit and sugary pastries, washes of color aren’t going anywhere this spring and summer. Use your visual merchandising assets to show how these playful looks can be worn, whether that means you’re styling your mannequins safe and playful—or edgy and eye-catching. Add this fun trend to your store by stocking up on bright one-piece swimwear, lilac blazers, fire-engine red dresses and accessories starring the Pantone color of the year, Ultra Violet.

5. Sprint for Sneakers

Chasing the athleisure trend of spring 2018 (and the past few years, really), sporty, comfortable kicks are big this 2018. Incredibly versatile in styling, athletic footwear can make a feminine dress turn tomboyish, work-ready trousers look a teensy bit casual, and billowing palazzo pants look more modern. We recommend placing trainers of all colors, styles and brands throughout your store— especially in the window, as they tend to sell well because of their utility and cool factor. 

6. Make a Statement With Your Earrings

Whether you’re heading to hang poolside and soak up some rays or off to explore a new city on your upcoming vacay, a chunky, eye-catching pair of earrings is the perfect way to complete your outfit. Whether customers seem to gravitate towards silver, gold or rose gold shimmer, we’ve got it covered. All metal hues are good to go for this spring and summer—and the silhouettes are a fashion force to be reckoned with. You’ll see gigantic hoops and spirals, dangling chains, intense amounts of sparkle, geometric motifs and saturated pops of color. We recommend placing these designs next to tops and other accessories they pair well with to show your customers that, although bold, these earrings are totally wearable.

What’s your favorite trend this sunny-day season? Share with us in the comments below!