Shop this: Cute summer accessories under $50
Have fun with fashion trends, without paying the price
To be truthful, the idea that trendiness equals style is outdated. There are ways to appear current, but following the trends is more fluid as they don't expire every season. High fashion has embraced this eclectic movement, but certain themes, colours and patterns are still shared by multiple designers each year. Trends will always have roots in the runway, where they're picked up by influencers/models/Rihanna who bring it to the mainstream via social media. Summer 2018 is still steeped in '90s nostalgia, and I, for one, am quite pleased to be wearing shapes and styles I wore as a teenager. Now all I need is the freedom of summers off! Below, I sourced 10 of the most affordable ways to try trends like tiny sunglasses, scrunchies, fanny packs, square-toed shoes and more. Happy shopping!
These unique half-moons are a quirky way to hit two eyewear trends: coloured frames and quirky shapes. Red has emerged as the choice of model sisters Bella and Gigi Hadid, who are also responsible for the tiny sunglasses trend. And the shape will make people do a double take — they look sliced clean through the centre.
UO Half Moon Slim Sunglasses, $20, urbanoutfitters.com
I spotted these in a Target near Detroit recently and regret that they didn't have my size. Mules and slides were everywhere last summer; this square-toed version is an update. And mustard becomes a modern neutral when paired with a stacked wood heel. These mules are three-season shoes at a very good price.
Universal Thread Avianna Low Vamp Kitten-Heeled Mules, $45, target.com
Round, straw handbags inspired by market baskets are cropping up on the arms of everyone from French filles to laidback Cali girls. This one is ethically handmade in Morocco using palm leaves and straw. It's also a great size, with plenty of space for daily essentials.
Socco Design Round Straw Bag, $49, amazon.ca (< Currently sold out on Amazon, but still available here for just over $50.)
Pick a trend: Oversized hoops? Pearlescent? Inspired by the sea? They're all here in these standout earrings. The resin gives them a sheen reminiscent of the inner curve of a sea shell, while the wavy shape evokes water.
Bauble Bar Deena Resin Hoop Earrings, $46.74, baublebar.com
Vans are as popular as ever and you can bring the brand above-ankle with this rainbow fanny pack in their iconic checker pattern. Sling it over your shoulder as a casual cross body or go all in and wear it around your waist. The '90s appeal is strong either way.
Vans Party Check Cross Body Pack, $35, littleburgundy.com
You can thank the Hadid sisters (again) and their bestie Kendall Jenner for bringing back another accessory from the '90s. A denim feels a bit lighter for summer than standard black newsboy; it also allows the braid detail to stand out. Fun fact: In the U.K., a baker boy hat is another term for newsboy hat.
ASOS Design Denim Baker Boy Hat, $33.33, asos.com
Yes, the scrunchie is back and it's totally cute. I like how it looks styled on a low ponytail. It works more like an adornment than the hair tie we all remember. This jaunty red-stripe would add a nautical flair to a topknot, too.
Solid & Striped The Seersucker Scrunchie, $12.93, shopbop.com
The ideal pair to take on the polarizing tiny sunglasses trend. The cat-eye is flattering to many face shapes, even in a smaller size. If bold, coloured frames aren't for you, try white, which is still very popular for summer. These also come in red, tortoiseshell and clear with pink lenses.
H&M Sunglasses, $14.99, hm.com
Lucite and plastic are having a moment — you'll see it in jewelry, shoes, and in this case, totes. I like this take on the trend because of the silver bottom half. It allows some privacy, so your things aren't on display, and it's a great size for an everyday bag. Also ideal for the beach!
Forever 21 Clear Metallic Tote, $25.90, forever21.com
A sweet Liberty print scarf can be used in so many ways. Around the neck, as styled here, is a simple way to add a bit of chic to a plain white T. Secure a high or low ponytail and leave the ends loose, an easy summer beauty trend. Or wear it as a traditional bandana on bad hair days or at the beach. There are five patterns from which to choose, all designed by the famed British brand, Liberty Fabric.
Simons Floral Bandana, $29.99, simons.ca