13 Spring Trends Stylists Advise Dropping, and 13 Summer Trends to Embrace

Whether you're eager to embrace the latest trends or prefer staying true to timeless styles, finding the right balance for a new season can be challenging. To simplify this, we consulted 12 styling professionals for their tips on smoothly transitioning your wardrobe from spring to summer.

To create a stylish yet budget-friendly wardrobe, we turned to Amazon for affordable seasonal essentials—and the results were impressive. Scroll down to discover 13 items to retire and the perfect summer replacements.

Top Stylist-Approved Amazon Summer Fashion Picks

• HeyMoments Palazzo Pants, $30
• Merokeety Swiss Dot Blouse, $30 (was $38)
• Baleaf Tennis Skort, $26 with coupon (was $36)
• Xieerduo Flowy Tank Top, $18 with coupon (was $20)
• Chicgal Floral Kimono, $19
• Levi's Classic Straight Jeans, $50 (was $60)
• VotePretty Sundress, from $19 with coupon (was $40)
• Sidefeel Wide-Leg Jeans, $40

Out: Skinny Leggings

In: Airy Palazzo Pants

"Balancing style and comfort during the sweltering, dry, or humid summer months can be tricky, but it’s effortless with a pair of pull-on, airy wide-leg palazzo pants in your summer wardrobe," says Brenda Cooper, stylist for the iconic 90s TV show The Nanny. "Ditch those tight, restrictive leggings and let your legs breathe as you glide through your day in lightweight, flowing palazzo pants, available in stunning prints or solid hues. They’re incredibly versatile—just pair them with a tank top, cropped or full-length, and summer flats, whether adorned with jewels or a simple thong style. These pants are perfect for cocktail parties, poolside gatherings, or even a day at the beach."

Out: Long Sleeves

In: Sleeveless Tops

Cooper emphasizes ditching long sleeves and welcoming the heat with a must-have tank top. “Versatility is a cornerstone of my fashion philosophy, and this extended tank delivers multiple styling options for the price of one! I prefer tanks that extend over the hips and butt, creating a sleek, flattering silhouette. This allows you to wear it not just with pants, shorts, or skirts, but also as a beach cover-up or a mini dress paired with stylish sneakers, flip-flops, or summer sandals. It’s the ultimate summer essential for scorching days, and you can easily adjust its length by tucking it to high-hip level for a regular fit."

Out: Navy

In: Sky Blue

"While navy remains a timeless choice for spring, sky blue is the standout color for summer," says Shari Braendel, founder and CEO of Style by Color. "This shade made waves at Paris Fashion Week and pairs beautifully with red, offering a fresh alternative to classic navy. The V-neck design and breezy silhouette of this sky blue top make it ideal for summer weather."

Out: Animal Prints

In: Flowy Florals

Melissa Rivers, a renowned red carpet fashion expert, advises swapping bold animal prints for delicate floral patterns. "Animal prints come and go in fashion cycles, but they’ve been notably absent this season," she notes. "What I’m seeing everywhere are floral designs, and I’m absolutely captivated by them. They exude femininity and evoke a European summer aesthetic. Make sure to add a few floral pieces to your wardrobe this season."

Out: Pleated Skirts

In: Skorts

Stay ahead in athleisure fashion. Shana Draugelis, founder of The Mom Edit, notes, "Tenniscore is dominating summer trends, largely inspired by Zendaya’s looks in Challengers." She continues, "We’re moving away from spring’s pleated skirts and embracing skorts. Achieve the tenniscore aesthetic by pairing your skort with an oversized polo, or elevate it with a structured linen tank. A monochromatic ensemble also offers an effortlessly stylish option."

Out: Oversized Blazers

In: Floral Kimono Cardigan

James Firestein, CEO of OpenLuxury, believes now is the perfect time to swap your bulky blazers for lighter, more adaptable options. "Though oversized blazers are chic for transitional seasons, they can feel cumbersome in the summer heat. This season, opt for flowy kimonos and dusters. These lightweight layers offer just enough coverage while keeping you cool. A floral kimono injects a touch of color and elegance into any summer ensemble. Style it with a tank and shorts for a relaxed daytime vibe, or layer it over a sundress for an evening look. The kimono is a versatile summer essential that effortlessly transitions from day to night."

Out: Little Black Dress

In: Little White Dress

This season, the little black dress is taking a backseat to the little white dress, according to Jennifer Ann Johnson, founder of True Fashionistas. "The white sundress is a timeless classic, and white is particularly trendy this summer," she explains. "For a relaxed vibe, I love pairing a white dress with a faded denim jean jacket. For a more polished appearance, layer it with a vibrant blazer or cardigan. White flatters everyone, especially when accessorized with bold shoes and statement jewelry."

Out: Bulky Platforms

In: Strappy Sandals

"While platforms can add height, they often look bulky on smaller frames, throwing off the balance of your outfit," explains Avonne Thompson of Ever Petite. "Strappy sandals are a summer essential. They offer a slight lift without overpowering your silhouette, ensuring a balanced and elegant appearance. Their minimalist yet chic design elongates the legs and pairs effortlessly with dresses, skirts, shorts, and jeans, making them a versatile staple for your summer wardrobe."

Out: Flat Pastels

In: Metallics

Celebrity stylist Michelle Barrett recommends swapping soft pastels for bold, attention-grabbing metallic accessories, from bags to footwear. "Opt for gold if your undertones are warm and silver if they’re cool," she advises. "This season’s metallics are subtler, featuring soft, almost beige-gold tones. Pair them with neutral hues like white, brown, or cognac for a balanced look."

Out: Skinny Jeans

In: Wide-Leg Cropped Jeans

"Bid farewell to your spring skinny jeans and embrace these summer-ready wide-leg cropped jeans," suggests stylist Linda Stamko. "These Amazon wide-leg jeans are a summer staple. Their high-waisted design is both fashionable and flattering. For a casual look, pair them with a vibrant tank and flats, or elevate them with heeled sandals for a more refined style."

Out: An Array of Bold Brights

In: Soft White

Amanda Wood, founder of The Haute Edit, notes, "The vibrant hues of early spring are making way for soft white as the summer staple." She adds, "Opt for clean-lined essentials like a crisp white T-shirt paired with straight-leg white jeans, a tan belt, and neutral sandals for an effortlessly timeless look."

Out: Maximalism

In: Minimalism

Stylist Nina Vargas explains, "Neon shades are on their way out, while timeless neutrals and classic nudes are here to stay. These versatile basics can be worn repeatedly and transition seamlessly from season to season, making them wardrobe essentials for any occasion." She emphasizes that adopting a minimalist approach "offers the best value for your investment!"

Out: Midi Skirts

In: Maxi Skirts

"While midi skirts remain a solid choice for specific heights and body types, maxi skirts are taking over this summer, whether in silk or denim for a fresh update," says Liz Wendler, a style coach. "Maxi skirts bring a sleek, polished elegance and pair effortlessly with tanks and sandals for a chic, understated look. As temperatures rise, their flowy design ensures both comfort and style. They’re also more adaptable than dresses, seamlessly integrating into a capsule wardrobe when paired with tanks, bodysuits, or tees."