What Londoners Are Wearing This Summer: Street Style Trends You Need to Know (2025 Edition)
From bold fashion choices in Shoreditch to breezy minimalist chic in Kensington, London’s summer fashion is always a fascinating blend of individuality, heritage, and trendsetting edge. As the city shakes off its spring chill and June rolls in, the streets become a living runway. Whether you're planning to visit or just want to steal a few ideas from the most stylish locals, this guide breaks down what Londoners are actually wearing this summer.
The Mood: Unpredictable Weather, Effortless Layers
Let’s start with the most London thing of all: the weather. Summer in London is charmingly unreliable days may start off cloudy, turn tropical by lunchtime, and end with a drizzle. This has led to a core rule in London style: dress like anything could happen. Layers reign supreme, and versatility is the name of the game.
1. Oversized Sunglasses and Statement Accessories
Sunglasses are no longer just functional. In 2025, Londoners are favouring:
Tinted lenses in yellows, blues, and soft pinks
Oversized square and cat-eye frames
Retro 90s styles making a strong comeback
Expect to see statement earrings and layered gold necklaces paired with basics, elevating even the simplest outfit. Accessories are big this year—both literally and metaphorically.
2. Cargo Skirts, Parachute Pants, and Utility Details
The utilitarian trend has taken over. Think:
Maxi cargo skirts in muted colours (khaki, beige, washed black)
Parachute trousers with drawstrings and zips
Belt bags and side pouches to match
This trend is practical for summer festivals and streetwear lovers alike, combining coolness with comfort.
Where to shop it: Urban Outfitters, Weekday, and Brick Lane Vintage.
3. Linen Everything: From Notting Hill to Hampstead
As temperatures climb (with highs expected to hit 26°C in late June), breathable fabrics become essential. Linen is everywhere—shirts, wide-leg trousers, blazers, and even dresses with clean tailoring.
Look for:
Soft neutrals and oatmeal tones
Earthy palettes with splashes of terracotta or sea green
Boxy cuts that drape loosely over the body
Local tip: Londoners pair linen with chunky sandals or New Balance trainers for a balance of cool and comfort.
4. Pops of Colour and Pastels in Unexpected Places
It’s not all beige! 2025’s summer trend includes bold splashes of colour—especially:
Cobalt blue
Sunflower yellow
Pistachio green
Baby lilac
Whether it’s a monochrome outfit or a pop of colour via a handbag or shoes, Londoners know how to make the city’s grey background work in their favour.
5. Socks + Loafers (Yes, Even in Summer)
It might sound contradictory, but the preppy look is having a moment again in 2025. Loafers with high white socks are a common sight in east and central London, worn with pleated skirts, denim shorts, or tailored trousers.
Brands like G.H. Bass and Dr. Martens are leading the loafer revival, while the styling is often borrowed from Japanese street fashion.
6. Lightweight Overshirts and Workwear Jackets
Transitional pieces are always in demand. A good overshirt is perfect for London’s breeze, especially in the evenings.
Look for:
Cotton twill overshirts
Boxy denim jackets
Pastel-hued chore coats
Where to spot the look: Soho, Shoreditch, or any market in Hackney on a Saturday afternoon.
7. Tiny Bags Are Out. It’s All About the Massive Tote.
Londoners love a bag that can carry everything. From iced coffees to laptops, this summer’s it-bag is a giant canvas tote—branded, vintage, or artsy.
Popular options:
Local brands like Toast and Arket
Souvenir-style totes with London gallery logos
Upcycled or embroidered thrift finds
8. Bucket Hats and Baseball Caps: A Summer Staple
Bucket hats remain firm favourites—but baseball caps are catching up, especially paired with blazers or dresses for a sporty-yet-polished finish.
Look out for:
Neutral caps with tiny embroidered details
Washed canvas or faded colours
Custom caps from indie London brands
9. Sheer Fabrics, But Make It City-Ready
This isn’t beachwear. Think sheer layering that’s purposefully styled:
Mesh long sleeves under slip dresses
Organza jackets over tanks
Subtle layering with tonal colours
Perfect for rooftop parties or gallery nights in Peckham.
10. Mixing Vintage with High Street Staples
This is where Londoners truly shine. Their ability to mix thrifted gems with high street essentials defines the city's street style.
A typical outfit might include:
Vintage Levi’s with a COS white tank
A charity shop floral blouse with Nike Air Max
A designer belt bag thrown over a second-hand utility jacket
Sustainability is on everyone’s radar, and the fashion scene reflects that.
Bonus: Where to Spot These Looks in Action
Want to see these trends IRL? Here’s where the fashion-forward hang out:
Columbia Road Flower Market (Sundays) – ideal for spotting linen fits and oversized glasses
Shoreditch Boxpark – the epicentre of East London cool
Notting Hill vintage stores – where pastel aesthetics and classic tailoring meet
Southbank Centre – especially on weekends, packed with stylish locals
Primrose Hill or Hampstead Heath on sunny afternoons – casual chic picnic fashion
Final Thoughts
London fashion in summer is the perfect balance of effortless and intentional. Whether you’re strolling through a market or heading to a rooftop bar, these trends will have you looking the part and staying comfortable rain or shine.
So next time you're packing for London (or just heading to brunch in Camden), remember: it's not just fashion it's a conversation with the city.