We did it, besties! We made it through the last few frigid weeks of the season, and May has finally arrived. That means it's officially time to break out your spring/summer wardrobe and screenshot some of these May outfits to recreate all month long. But before you do, we need to have a little chat.
I'm going to hold your hand while I say this: There is life beyond the floral summer dress. There's a time and place for your favourite Reformation number – I won't deny it – but that time isn't every day and that place isn't everywhere. You're better than that!
Thankfully, there are a whole host of spring trends that come together to create equally stylish ensembles that feel just a little bit more elevated. Actually, no, strike that – they're a lot more elevated. I'm talking: bubble skirts, posh suiting, Eurocore co-ords, edgy boy jorts, runway-inspired boho dresses, and more – all waiting for a chance to blow your over-and-done-with sundress out of the water.
Boho-Chic Ruffles
Behold: the Chloé effect. The luxury label has succeeded where so many others could not, effectively bringing back the early-2000s boho-chic aesthetic. Only this time around, we're modernising the look by styling flouncy ruffled tops and dresses with luxe add-ons, like thigh-high boots and simplistic leather handbags.
Shop the boho-chic look
Pops of Cherry Red
If your TikTok algo regularly serves you apartment decor, you've probably already heard of the ‘unexpected red theory.’ It's a household styling concept that applies just as well to your wardrobe. Essentially, it means a random splash of red can make any look feel eclectic and effortlessly cool. Case in point...
Shop the crimson look
Cider Mesh Figure Graphic Tank Top
Grey Suiting
This one's for all the corporate girlies! Up your summer workwear game with this season's new tailoring trends. We're talking oversized blazers, sleek capri pants, and single-breasted blazers.
Shop the corp-core look
Zara Metallic Bag
A Colourful Co-Ord
It's official: co-ord season has officially begun. This year's lightweight sets come covered in bright patchwork prints reminiscent of the Italian coast. Basically, they'll put you in vacation mode, without the jet lag or four-figure hotel bill.
Shop the co-ord look
Baggy Shorts and a Ruffled Blouse
Dad jorts have officially bypassed cut-offs as the hot-girl style of the summer, freeing you from the turmoil of front wedgies and too-tight waistbands. Double down on the casual vibes with your favourite baby tee, or add heels and a blouse to dress it up.
Shop the jorts look
A Bright Bubble Dress
Remember what I said? You're better than the floral sundress. Embrace that mantra – be it, live it! You'll be so much happier in, say, a strapless sage green bubble dress and matching high heels.
Shop the bubble dress look
Short-Shorts and a Boxy Blazer
Consider this your reminder to take full advantage of shorts-and-a-jacket weather. Once August rolls around, you'll long for those delightfully temperate May afternoons. Mix inter-seasonal favourites, like boxy blazers, micro shorts, and boots, while you still can.
Shop the boxy blazer look
Reformation Parker Oversized Blazer
Jones Bootmaker Denno Chunky Chelsea Boots
Slouchy Jeans and Statement Boots
A simple tank top and jeans is one of the oldest outfit formulas in the book, but just a few small tweaks can take it from basic to off-duty model vibes. Opt for a high-neck knit paired with baggy jeans and squeeze one last stylish moment out of your favourite statement boots. Easy, effortless, elevated. Perfect for those warm-but-not-hot May nights.
Shop the slouchy jean look
Pastels and Pearls
It's no secret pastels dominated the spring summer 2025 colour trends , and there's no better way to wear them than by emphasising the feminine feel with equally feminine jewellery. Namely: pearls. It's a classic look for a reason!
Sop the Pastel Look
A Crop Top and Maxi Skirt
You've been patiently waiting for the return of your beloved crop tops, but now that the time has come, you might be feeling a little bit too naked. It takes some getting used to, so ease into the bare midriff look with a long-sleeve top styled with a maxi skirt.
Shop the crop top look
Kelsey (she/her) is a freelance digital fashion editor and writer with a knack for turning top-performing content into top-selling content. She has extensive experience in editorial and e-commerce strategy, having worked in both divisions during her years at Seventeen and Bustle. With more than a decade of experience in digital media, she also offers creative and social media consulting, as well as copywriting services. She enjoys cheeseburgers, traveling, and vintage hauls. Follow her on Instagram at @klstieg.
Alexandria Dale is the Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan UK. Covering everything from the celebrity style moments worth knowing about to the latest fashion news, there’s nothing she loves more than finding a high street dupe of a must-have designer item. As well as discovering new brands, she’s passionate about sustainable fashion and establishing the trends that are actually worth investing in. Having worked in fashion journalism for six years, she has experience at both digital and print publications including Glamour and Ok!
