Summer of Nostalgia: From Food to Fits
By Isabella Redjai
Catch of the Day
Content creator and founder of Dairy Boy Paige Lorenze broke the internet recently with her Fisherman’s Daughter sweater, inspired by the art of her brother and hobby of her professional tennis player boyfriend Tommy Paul. Think of it as a modern nod to the timeless charm of Ralph Lauren’s Fair Isle sweaters — once born from scraps of leftover yarn, now reimagined with whimsical, summery flair.
This season, fish are officially the main character. Picture knitwear adorned with playful aquatic motifs, flannel shorts that feel borrowed from Dad’s weekend wardrobe, and classic wellies that conjure images of misty lake mornings and cozy cabin escapes. Top it off with a tin of caviar (yes, it’s trending as the new weekend treat), and you’ve got a look that’s equal parts nostalgic and elevated. Rustic, relaxed, and a little bit luxe — this summer, you’re the catch of the day.
I Scream for Ice Cream
It’s not summer weather yet, but we’re already melting! While butter yellow softened our wardrobes this past spring, this season is all about indulgent nostalgia, with ice cream leading the charge as both a food and fashion trend. Think of those childhood afternoons spent chasing the ice cream truck, cone in hand — this summer, your wardrobe is getting the same treatment.
Brands are already serving up the vibe: Set Active dropped its playful “Birthday Collection” featuring creamy hues like Swirl, while Frankies Bikinis scooped out its whimsical “Sundae Shop Collection,” with dreamy shades like Blue Vanilla, Brown Sugar, Cherry, and Strawberries & Cream. Expect draped fabrics that mimic soft-serve swirls, vibrant colors reminiscent of rainbow sprinkles, and timeless stripes straight out of a vintage ice cream parlor. Inspired by sweet spots like Farrell’s, Candy Kitchen, and seaside scoop shops, this trend is an ode to simpler summers— and the joy of dressing like your favorite frozen treat.
Pack It Up for Picnic Chic
A classic Coke, PB&J, and woven basket… Picnics are back, and we’re not being nit-picky. But this summer, the humble picnic isn’t just an afternoon activity; it’s a full-blown aesthetic revival. From gingham in playful shades of cherry red, blush pink, and garden green to puff-sleeve peasant blouses, capris, and vintage headscarves, the look is romantic, tactile, and refreshingly offline.
The strawberry obsession of last summer has ripened into jam, merging beautifully with the chocolate brown and burgundy tones of fall for a palette that’s rich, sweet, and nostalgic. It’s the PB&J effect, and brands are eating it up: Blank Street Coffee debuted its PB&J Matcha this spring, while Rhode Skin also launched a lip tint in the shade PBJ.
Now another staple of the classic picnic spread, cherries are poised to be the fruit of the season— not just in prints, but in color. Think vibrant, candy-red heels (as seen from For Love & Lemons and Coach) and playful accessories that bring a dose of Americana charm. So yes, America’s back — and so is the joy of dressing for slow afternoons, sunny spreads, and storybook summer days.
Feeling Extra Dirty!
While summer usually belongs to the Aperol (or Hugo) Spritz, the classic dirty martini is staging the ultimate comeback. From provocative podcast chatter to late-night rendezvous at Bar Penelope, the mood this season is clear: make it extra dirty. Olives are having a moment —both as a garnish and a style cue.
Whether it’s an unexpected pop of olive green in your outfit or the elegant silhouette of a cocktail coupe, this retro revival is proving timeless. Even Hailey Bieber channeled the vibe, clutching a martini as the ultimate accessory while leaving the Carlyle Hotel en route to this year’s Met Gala. Polished, slightly mature, and unapologetically bold, the dirty martini embodies a perfectly imperfect glamour, even for the clean girl. So go ahead — return to the classics. This summer, dirty is in.
Isabella Redjai is a podcast producer who lives in New York City. She can be found on Twitter: @IsabellaRedjai.