Stripes are one of the few prints that never really go out of style, especially during the warmer months. But for Summer 2026, they’re feeling fresher than ever. Instead of the traditional nautical tee, designers are embracing wider stripes, saturated color combinations, unexpected cuts and more playful takes that feel equal parts classic and modern.
And while summer may be winding down, it’s definitely not over yet. These stripes are perfect for Labor Day weekend, late-summer dinners and getaways and even upcoming vacations when you’re ready to escape to somewhere warm.
Whether you prefer timeless black and white or a full-on rainbow, here are the stripe trends we’re loving this season.
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Cabana Stripes
Nothing says summer quite like bold cabana stripes. Inspired by vintage beach umbrellas and resort awnings, these wide, colorful stripes instantly evoke vacation mode, even if you’re just headed to brunch.
A cabana-striped midi or maxi dress is an effortless one-and-done outfit, and we’re liking this Simon Miller dress at Anthropologie for just that purpose.
If separates are more your style, the Matty M striped wrap midi skirt from Nordstrom Rack pairs beautifully with a simple white tank or tee, letting the skirt do all the talking.
And don’t put these pieces away just because the season is winding down. Cabana stripes are made for late-summer weekends and will look just as chic packed in your suitcase for a future getaway.
Stripes at a Diagonal
Not all stripes have to run straight across. Diagonal stripes create movement, drawing the eye around the body in a way that’s incredibly flattering. When paired with asymmetrical cuts, the effect is even more striking.
Target’s A New Day brand has an under-$40 option that looks far more expensive than it is.
And this off-the-shoulder striped top from Staud is a more sophisticated and splurge-worthy statement piece you’ll wear well beyond this season.
Black and White and Striped
You can never go wrong with high-contrast stripes. They’re perpetually chic and endlessly versatile (we always have a few pieces with this pattern in our closet).
Right now, we’re especially loving oversized black and white (or cream) stripes on maxi dresses, like the dramatic ASOS Design version. Prefer something a little more understated?
A slimmer striped column dress, like the black-and-ivory style from All in Favor at Nordstrom, is the kind of wardrobe staple you’ll reach for year after year.
Striped Shoes
Striped footwear can be hard to style, but the right pair becomes the focal point of an otherwise simple outfit.
Think raffia mules with Missoni-inspired stripes from Larroude or cheap and chic colorful wrap sandals from the Rosie Assoulin x Target collaboration.
Pair them with crisp white linen, denim or solid-color dresses to let the shoes pop.
And if you’re heading somewhere warm this fall or winter, striped shoes are an especially easy way to brighten up your vacation wardrobe.
Poolside Stripes
Summer accessories are another easy way to embrace the trend.
A striped tote instantly brightens a beach or farmers market look.
A silk scarf offers endless styling possibilities. Wrap one around your ponytail, tie it to your handbag, wear it as a headscarf or if you’re feeling adventurous, even style it as a top. It’s one accessory that works surprisingly hard all season long and is easy to tuck into a suitcase for your next vacation.
Stripes may never truly disappear, but this summer they’re bigger, brighter and far more playful than we’ve seen in years. And that’s part of what makes them so appealing: whether you wear them now or on a future getaway, they’re a trend that won’t feel dated when the season changes.
Whether you stick with classic Breton-inspired styles or embrace bold cabana colors, there’s a striped piece for every wardrobe.
What about you? Are you loyal to timeless black-and-white or Breton sailor stripes, or are you embracing this season’s more colorful, retro-inspired take? Tell us in the comments or join the conversation in our Growing Younger Facebook group!
–Jacqueline Zenn
You may also like to read more of Jacqui’s fashion posts like Fashion’s Sheer Potential: How to Wear Sheer Pieces This Summer and A Wedge Issue: Wedge Shoe Styles For Late Summer 2026.
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