Key Summer 2026 Accessory Trends

What accessories are on trend for summer 2026? This season, accessories are doing all the heavy lifting, serving as the essential finishing touches that make an outfit feel intentional and styled. The overarching theme is a blend of bold nostalgia and tactile interest, starting with oversized sunglasses (the crux of my ethos) that instantly anchor a look. We are seeing a shift toward expressive, layered jewelry and unexpected details like colorful socks, cow print accents, and strappy sandals. Yet, the "European Summer" aesthetic remains a cornerstone by grounding the season in quiet luxury through organic raffia textures, effortless linens, and timeless tortoiseshell. This summer is not about playing it safe; it is about building a curated look through pieces that feel elevated, personal, and a bit unexpected.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are the fastest way to make an outfit feel styled with minimal effort this summer. The focus is on bold, oversized shapes that instantly add intention. Vintage shield styles are having a moment, along with oversized aviators and chunky retro frames that feel a little nostalgic but still modern.

I’ve been leaning into larger silhouettes lately because they make even the simplest outfit feel more interesting. I picked up a pair inspired by Tom Ford in a chocolate print that goes with everything, and I also grabbed aviators in a rich oxblood tone. Now I’m seriously considering adding the heritage tort pair to round out the collection.

I have these Loewe curvy shades.

Jewelry

Jewelry this season is all about texture and personality. Beaded pieces are everywhere, not just in necklaces and large bracelets/bangles but echoed in handbags too, which makes everything feel cohesive. Statement earrings are a go to when you want instant impact without overthinking the rest of your outfit, adding interest right away and elevating even the simplest look. Pearls are back as well, but styled in a more relaxed, modern way, often mixed with beads for a fresh feel. H&M has a lot of beaded necklaces

Layered necklaces finish it off, bringing everything together with that effortless, collected feel. Lizzie Fortunato is my favorite brand for beaded necklaces

Stacking rings are another key part of the look, with statement rings layered together to create something more personal and expressive. Rings are easily my favorite accessory because they’re so easy to switch up day to day depending on your mood. Once the weather is warm enough to stop wearing a coat, I make sure to always have rings on! Everyone sees your hands!

If you've been watching Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Rachel Zoe has been wearing gorgeous statement rings all season! She's now the Chief Color Director for Essie. She has been wearing two different Cartier Panther rings all season! I love my rings from Dean Davidson. Also H&M has so many beautiful statement rings.

Colorful Socks

Tabio is my go to store for fun colorful socks. They are a Japanese brand.

Statement Belt

My favorite way to dress up an outfit, belts styling is huge! I've written two posts on designer belts here and here. These are the newest releases from Celine and Dior.

Sandals

Block heels with a thick strap is out of style, switch to a strappy shoe for your heels.

Crocs has some cute strappy but comfortable sandals for summer.

If Chloe Jelly Sandals were too pricey for you at $610, I have some dupes for you:

one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight

Tortoise Accessories

Tortoiseshell has been popping up everywhere and it's not just in sunglasses. I bought these hair clips and phone case. I bought these sandals a previous year in a different color. These press-on nails are so cute! These earrings are adorable! These sandals are almost sold out. Tortoise Hoop Earrings.

Louis Vuitton - a fresh contemporary take on the classic aviator shape

Khaite - oval cat eye and a mask merged together

Cow Print

Animal print has a new animal on trend: cows in belts and shoes.

The European Summer Edit

Every outfit I put in my Summer Lookbook post is still very much on style! When I travel, I almost always lean into minimalism and quiet luxury. Think easy linen and cotton gauze (I love these pants). Effortless, monochromatic matching sets in natural fibers that make you look put together the second you put them on. To round out this look, I’ve sourced a few elevated essentials that lean into those beautiful, organic textures:

Raffia Bag

Raffia handbags are the ultimate summer staple, offering a tactile charm and an effortless vacation vibe. For those looking to add some texture to their seasonal wardrobe, H&M is currently carrying several standout pieces. Additionally, JCrew remains a reliable destination for high-quality straw classics, while LOFT offers a great selection of versatile woven items.

Linen

A summer staple. I have these two items from JCrew on my wishlist: linen pant and boatneck tee. I buy their linen pants every year! H&M has a lot in linen but theirs is always a blend. I bought these linen shorts which I love! I bought it in two colors.

Straw Hat

Summer is not complete without a straw hat. My favorites are from Janessa Leone as she's fashionable but also comes in multiple sizes which I need.