I hate to say it, but it’s officially too hot for jeans. With the Met Office deeming the UK in drought and yet more heatwaves on the cards this summer, my denim has been gathering dust. As a fashion editor who believes comfort and style should work in tandem, I’ve been feverishly hunting for a staple that would provide everything I love about jeans, but with a warm-weather-appropriate twist. Pretty summer dresses? Not right for the office. Linen trousers? Timeless, but a little lacklustre. And then I stumbled across striped trousers.

Now that fashion has entered its latest maximalist era, playful prints are everywhere, and it’s impossible to miss the spirited polish of stripes walking down the street. From pyjama pants to tailored wide-leg trousers, summer 2026 is the season of the stripe. Lightweight, breathable, versatile and stylish, striped trousers work perfectly with this season’s eclectic mood. So if you’ve been flirting with the idea of incorporating an uplifting dose of dopamine into your wardrobe, this statement piece is a fail-safe way to do it.

I set about looking for fresh ways to wear striped trousers, seeking inspo from the chicest people on my social feeds. Whether styled with a cute halterneck and easy flip-flops, or a trending peplum top and classic loafers, these outfits are getting me excited to style my own pair. Scroll to see the six looks below; you’ll soon understand why they’ve made it into my Saved folder.

How to Wear Striped Trousers the Summer 2026 Way

1. Striped Trousers + Striped Shirt + Raffia Bag

Style Notes: Can you ever go wrong with a co-ord in summer? An instant outfit in just two pieces; when you add a stripe, you have an instantly cool summer-ready look. Take inspo from Barbara Kristoffersen (pictured above) and finish yours with a stylish raffia tote and straw cowboy hat straight off the beach.

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2. Striped Trousers + Strapless Top + Metal-Detail Sandals

Style Notes: Further proof that striped-trouser outfits don’t have to be all fuss and frills; they can be impeccably chic, too. Leaning into neutral hues and timeless silhouettes, Emily Wells (pictured above) creates a look that’s all about effortless elegance. Using her blue beaded bag and dainty red rope necklace to add a pop of colour, this easy-to-replicate look is one I’ll be wearing on repeat.

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3. Striped Trousers + Headscarf + Peplum Top

Style Notes: Opting for a classic pair of pinstripe trousers in a stylish chocolate hue, Mary Jean’s look makes the most of playful pieces to transition smart trousers into summer territory. From her pretty embroidered-lace headscarf to her sculptural denim peplum top, this look is one to save for later if you’re after a way to make your pinstripe trousers feel softer and more wearable in 2026.

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4. Striped Trousers + Pillbox Hat + Printed Top

Style Notes: Don’t be afraid of mixing prints and patterns; if you know how to style them well, they can look incredibly chic. In a ‘fit perfect for the maximalist dressers amongst us, Barbara Santiago pairs her stripes with a vivid leopard-print top, creating a base which packs a punch. Finishing with tan-tone accessories, she uses her vintage-inspired belt and raffia pillbox hat to pull the array of shades and prints together. Honestly, it’s a masterclass in modern style.