The Most "Fashion" Shoes, Dress and Top of Summer 2020

When writing our spring/summer 2020 trend report, we never could have anticipated the way life as we know it would change. While many of the buyers' predictions about holiday clothes and wedding guest outfits are now irrelevant in the current climate, there are several items that are proving to be just as popular, despite not being able to be worn outside. 

"The large majority of the runway collections have been incredibly wearable, the brands have showcased the ultimate wardrobing heroes in a new and interesting way: the suit, the Bermuda short, the white shirt, the tank top," said Elizabeth von der Goltz, global buying director at Net-a-Porter, back in December. 

There has been a shift toward simplicity rather than anything too attention-seeking within fashion circles, partly driven by the industry's heightened focus on sustainability. There are three classic items in particular that editors, buyers and influencers are still embracing for the summer and are still easy to wear inside and for daily walks: platform flip-flops, puff-sleeved dresses and elegant polo shirts. 

Keep scrolling to see and shop the "fashion" shoes, dress, and top of summer 2020. 

1. Stacked Flip-Flops

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(Image credit: Monikh)

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(Image credit: Brittany Bathgate)

When it comes to sandals this year, the "fashion" shoe of the year is without a doubt platform flip-flops. We can thank Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen and The Row's Ginza flip-flops for the return of this '90s style. 

2. Puff-Sleeve Dress

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(Image credit: Brittany Bathgate)

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(Image credit: Erica Davies)

Puff-sleeved minidresses were the silhouette of 2019, and they're staying firmly put for 2020. As our lifestyles have all rapidly changed, we are looking for clothes that are comfortable and easy to throw on, and this style of dress ticks all the boxes. 

3. Polo Shirt

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We can thank Miuccia Prada for this one, as she styled most of the looks on the S/S 20 runway with a ribbed polo shirt. Net-a-Porter is so convinced that this is a new wardrobe staple it has bought over 1100 units.

Next up, see our guide to the key trends for spring/summer 2020.

Emma Spedding