Summer may still be over a month away, but Houstonians already feel a seasonal shift in both temperatures and new styles. Layered sweatshirts and cute booties are being tucked away and replaced by lightweight fabrics, sandals, and a softer, breezier color palette.
One of the Houston stores staying on trend for warmer weather is The RealReal, a marketplace for authenticated, resale luxury goods. The brand quietly opened its first Houston location in the Montrose Collective mixed-use development late last year, and Noelle Sciacca, head of fashion at The RealReal, offers a peek into the top trends to watch. Sciacca has a unique perspective of what's heating up in fashion because she has insider access to what customers are searching for and actually buying.
Although it is always nice to add a couple of new pieces to our wardrobes each season, Sciacca also firmly believes in maintaining personal style.
"In the age of TikTok, the rapid turnover of trends can feel overwhelming. While it's exciting to anticipate what's new and next, I'm a strong believer in the power of personal style — and the value of re-wearing pieces that make you feel confident, regardless of current trends."
CultureMap (CM): What are the top three trends you're seeing emerge for Summer 2025?
Noelle Sciacca (NS): The modern bohemian aesthetic experienced a major resurgence last year — and all signs indicate that the trend is here to stay for Summer 2025. Key pieces that channel vintage inspiration while feeling fresh and current include the peasant blouse, which has seen a 78 percent year-over-year increase in searches on The RealReal. Tassel and fringe details are also making a strong comeback, with searches up 69 percent, while leather cord necklaces — evocative of laid-back '70s style — have surged by an impressive 193 percent since last year.
Houston-based Inclán Studio offers several types of peasant blouses and summer styles.Photo courtesy of Inclán Studio.
CM: We've noticed shorts are getting a bit longer this season. What silhouettes or styles are you seeing trending in that space?
NS: While micro-mini shorts have made frequent appearances on runways in recent seasons, they're often less practical for everyday wear. In response, we're seeing a growing interest in longer, tailored shorts that transition seamlessly into office settings and wider, knee-length denim styles that offer comfort and ease for running errands. These more versatile silhouettes strike a balance between trend and functionality, making them a smart addition to any summer wardrobe.
Find longer short silhouettes, including this style from Lutz Huelle, at Autry Park's Sloan/Hall. Photo courtesy of Sloan/Hall/Instagram
CM: Layered looks dominated the runways this season, even for summer. How can people embrace the trend while staying cool and comfortable in a city like Houston, where the heat can be intense?
NS: This summer, whether staying in Houston or escaping to a tropical destination, layering remains practical and effortlessly stylish. The key to staying cool — both in temperature and appearance — is choosing loose-fitting silhouettes crafted from lightweight fabrics. Embrace the modern bohemian trend, which continues to dominate both runway collections and street style, by pairing sheer peasant blouses with minimalist bra tops and low-slung wide-leg pants. Layer delicate lace-cropped jackets over flowing maxi dresses for an elevated touch.
Houston designer Christy Lynn offers several barely there silk tops and a new denim line perfect for warm weather.Photo courtesy of Christy Lynn
CM: Is there an "It bag" for Summer 2025?
NS: Originally released in 2005, the Chloé Paddington quickly achieved It-Bag status, frequently spotted on the arms of early-2000s style icons such as Paris and Nicky Hilton, Jennifer Lopez, and Sienna Miller. Recently reintroduced on the brand's Spring/Summer 2025 runway, the Paddington has sparked a renewed surge in demand. Miu Miu has emerged as a powerhouse in the handbag space, producing styles that have quickly developed cult followings. On The RealReal, sales of Miu Miu bags have increased by 60 percent year over year, with searches for the Arcadie style alone soaring by 365%.
One of Miu Miu's most iconic styles, the Arcadie, is available at Saks Fifth Avenue in The Galleria.Photo courtesy of Miu Miu.
