Despite Iowa’s unstable weather choices, summer is approaching, which means a wardrobe change is in order. Popular fashion magazines and brands compiled lists of trends that are predicted to be popular this spring/summer season. I am here to give my two cents on whether these trends are hot or not.

Sailor chic

Ahoy mateys! The fashion of the high seas is at the top of many fashion magazines’ trend predictions, including Vogue and Marie Claire. Sailor stripes, fishnets and mermaid tail silhouettes are key components of this style.

While I love the fun and fresh nature of this trend, I believe it can be a bit tacky. If it goes overboard (see what I did there?), the outfit will look like a cheap pirate costume. However, the individual pieces and structures of this style are intriguing and can add a summer-y and first mate element to simple outfits.

Garden glam

Elegant garden fashion is in full bloom, balancing classy florals, soft tweeds and airy silhouettes for a look that feels both timeless and posh. Flowing dresses adorned with delicate blossoms meet structured tweed jackets, creating a perfect harmony of romance and refinement. Very Jane Austen chic. This trend is on almost every summer fashion list and is perfect for when you’re strolling through a garden party or just dressing like you are.

This look is very sophisticated and high class, which is fun for a special occasion, but I don’t see a lot of people incorporating this into their everyday life. Maybe cute floral patterns and color palettes can be a nice touch to your wardrobe, but for many people, it can look a bit too formal.

Amped-up accessories

More is more with accessories. Over-accessorization is one of Glamour’s picks for this year’s spring/summer trends. Adding more jewelry, headpieces, keychains, belts or even pins to outfits will elevate it into a personalized high fashion statement. Besides having more accessories, taking your current pieces and customizing them with rhinestones, studs or stitching will also take them to the next level.

I personally love bags that have tons of keychains or a collection of pins, but in terms of outfits, sometimes too many accessories can feel heavy or burdensome. I do think customizing jewelry and hairpieces is a fun way to make an outfit unique, but this trend seems too heavy.

Min-max match-up

In 2025, fashion takes sides — there’s no middle ground. Minimalism and maximalism stand at opposite ends of the style spectrum, each making a bold statement. Minimalists embrace sleek silhouettes, muted palettes and the ‘less is more’ mindset. Maximalists go all out with layered textures, clashing prints and loud colors. One thing is clear: Subtlety and excess are in, but anything in between is out.

I am obsessed with both of these styles as they require a peak level of confidence that I am envious of. Minimalism is easier to pull off but still has a sophisticated air, which can be a lot to carry. Maximalism has a shocking look and is way harder to embrace, but I will always respect how bold the outfits are.

Shaking up your wardrobe can be scary, but doing a little experimenting can help you discover a new side to yourself. Add a couple of these elements to your everyday outfits and be the trendiest person in the room.