6 Outdated Summer Accessories and What to Wear in 2024

With the ebb and flow of the trend cycle comes an accumulation of items that increase or decrease in popularity each season. Of course, though, you should always wear whatever you love, regardless of what some deem trendy. That said, if you are looking for summer shopping inspiration, we thought we’d share some of the items we love and those we’re personally putting aside for now. Oh, and we wanted to focus on shoes and accessories specifically. Hey, those special add-ons can take any wardrobe to that next level.

A few members of our fashion team gave us insights into the outdated summer accessories they’re not into and also offered feedback on the trendy pieces they will be wearing instead. As a preview, there’s everything from a statement-making jewelry trend to a fresh sunglasses look coming your way.

Keep scrolling for more, including visual inspiration and a range of summer shopping recommendations.

Michaela Bushkin, Fashion Director, Branded Content

(Image credit: Michaela Bushkin)

Into: Belts and Strappy Sandals

Not as Into: Fisherman Sandals

“I wear a lot of basics and neutrals, so I’ve been relying on cool belts to elevate my looks, and—spoiler alert—it’s working. It’s a genius hack for making any outfit appear more expensive. Lately, I’m favoring ones that make a statement with unique buckles or unexpected hardware details. I’m breaking up with the fisherman sandal trend this summer simply because I never feel cute wearing them. Instead, I’m opting for simple strappy sandals or platform flip-flops.” — Bushkin

Jennifer Camp Forbes, Shopping Updates Editor

(Image credit: Jennifer Camp Forbes)

Into: Woven Leather Tote Bags

Not as Into: Logo-Heavy Straw Bags

“A woven leather tote bag has been a favorite option for well over a decade. The bag style transcends trends. Plus, it is practical and effortless all at once. I opt for black and warm brown colors and wear them with everything from a basic tee-and-jeans look to a pretty dress moment.” — Camp Forbes

Jasmine Fox-Suliaman, Editor

Into: ’80s-Inspired Jewelry

Not as Into: Y2K-Inspired Jewelry

“A few summers back, you couldn’t scroll through Instagram without spotting jewelry that was reminiscent of the aughts (e.g., chunky acrylic rings or beaded necklaces). While those pieces are fun, I’m ready to embrace something chicer this season. I’m particularly obsessed with all the ’80s-inspired jewelry we’ve seen emerge on the runways—from chain belts to clip-on earrings. These elevated jewelry items feel like the perfect way to make everyday staples shine this summer.” — Fox-Suliaman

Allyson Payer, Senior Editor

Into: Chunky, Sculptural Silver Rings

Not as Into: Chunky Resin Rings

“I don’t think I’ll be wearing any of those chunky resin rings that used to be so popular this summer. Chunky, sculptural silver rings look more sophisticated, and they’re the perfect match for white linen.” — Payer

Bobby Schuessler, Shopping Director

(Image credit: Bobby Schuessler)

Into: Oversize Sunglasses and Bag Charms

Not as Into: Super-Tiny Sunglasses

“I’ve been gravitating toward oversize sunglasses (rather than the once-trendy super-tiny sunglasses). I’m here for this runway-approved trend, whether in a square, oval, or aviator shape. I’m also so into the bag-charm trend we’ve seen everywhere! It’s such a fun way to make any bag style feel new.” — Schuessler

Grace O’Connell-Joshua, Assistant Shopping Editor

Into: Sea-Inspired Jewelry

Not as Into: Understated Studs

“I’m still loving sea-inspired jewelry for summer. I just ordered these adorable fish earrings from Zara that I can’t wait to style for a summer weekend. I think they’ll look fabulous with a white dress.” — O’Connell-Joshua

This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.