Surprisingly Chic Ways to Wear The Worst Summer 2025 Trends

We’re smack dab in the middle of summer, and I really don’t want it to end! We’re already seeing back-to-school ads and fall fashion buzz, but I think we should go all-out with summer style because there are still plenty of sunny days ahead. After all, summer is the perfect time to wear bold colors, playful silhouettes, eye-catching trends, and, most importantly, whatever makes you feel your best.

That’s where the TikTok trend “dopamine dressing” comes in. It actually started a few years ago and encourages us to boost our mood by wearing bright colors, fun patterns, bold jewelry and accessories and clothes that spark joy. And much of what we saw from designers for Spring/Summer 2025 fits right in.

This exuberance showed up on the runways through some of the wildest fashion trends of the season. As you know, I usually highlight our favorite trends and share ways to wear them. But this time, I’m doing something different: looking at what I originally thought were the worst fashion trends for women over 50—and reconsidering them. Well, not completely (some of those runway looks were terrible!), but I do think the creativity behind them can be inspiring. In fact, I found ways to reinterpret these over-the-top trends in a way that’s actually wearable for women over 50.

So here are my picks for the best ways to wear the worst trends of Spring/Summer 2025. Let’s keep it light and bright for summer while it’s still here!  After all, fashion is about self-expression—and you should wear whatever makes you happy.

Marshmallows

These oversized “marshmallow” silhouettes showed up on several runways—and honestly, I don’t know anyone who’d wear them head-to-toe. But a little goes a long way!

Case in point: these chic puffy slide sandals from Prada add just enough statement without going overboard.

Fringe Fest

Runway fringe was so overwhelming it practically needed its own zip code. But if you focus on just one statement piece, it works beautifully.

This vibrant coral fringe skirt, for example, makes a bold yet balanced statement.

Lingerie Looks

Bras, garters, and panties as outerwear? No thanks! But the lingerie-inspired details can translate into something stylish.

This structured bustier peplum top is proof you can nod to the trend without overexposing.

Dingy Faded Florals

These muted, washed-out florals felt drab on the runway and they were shown in unwearable or just frumpy silhouettes. 

But this dress, in a similar faded print, is flattering and stylish for women of all ages.

Acid Green

This acid (or as I call it, bile) green is harsh on most skin tones—especially when worn head-to-toe. The color itself is bold and interesting and can make a unique statement.

Try it as a blazer layered over a flattering color. This way it becomes an accent rather than an assault. 

Fashion should always be fun, and trends are just suggestions—not rules. You can always pick and choose what works for you, and leave the rest behind. However many times, what brings you joy may surprise you!

You may also like to read What to Wear On A City Break: A Chic Summer Vacation Capsule Wardrobe and Spring 2025 Trend to Love: Artfully Crafted Statement Jewelry for Women Over 50.

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