After an afternoon spent street-style spotting at New York’s Chelsea Hotel during yesterday’s Prada Mode event, it became very clear that some of the chicest summer trends for 2026 aren’t new at all. In fact, New York’s best-dressed were making a case for many of the elevated classics already lurking in our wardrobes.

Chances are, at least one of these elegant staples is currently hanging in your closet. Read on to discover the blouse, print and shoe trend that New York’s style set is backing for summer 2026.

3 Long-Standing Summer Trends New York’s Coolest Are Wearing Now

1. Embroidered Sleeveless Blouse

Style Notes: A white cotton sleeveless top has long been one of summer’s hardest-working wardrobe staples, and for 2026, New York’s fashion crowd is gravitating towards delicately embroidered versions. Attending the Prada Mode event last night, Myha’la styled hers with straight-leg jeans, crafting an outfit that felt entirely polished, yet perfectly relaxed.

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2. Polka Dots

Style Notes: Whilst polka-dots will never go “out”, there are certainly moments in time when the time-tested print feels more relevant than others. Judging by the looks on display in New York, that moment is arriving once again. Making a case for the enduring print, Ziwe stepped out in a coordinating Prada two-piece rendered in classic navy polka dots. Elegant yet unfussy, polka dots offer an easy route into playful dressing without ever feeling like too much.

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3. Satin Shoes

Style Notes: In truth, I’ve always found leather and suede shoes too heavy for summer styling, so when the warmer months roll around, my instinct is to reach for glossy satin styles instead. No longer the reserve of brides, this sheeny trend imparts all of the elegance of a classic leather heel, but with a certain freshness and lightness that far better suits the warmer months.

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