High Summer Fashion Trends: What’s Hot in New Zealand for 2026
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Navigation
Chocolate Brown Is the New Black
Co-Ord Sets: Matching Made Easy
Cloud Dancer and How to Wear White
Cardigans: The Layer You Didn’t Know You Needed
Low Rise: Wide-Leg Jeans Are Back
Low Rise: Longer Shorts for Real Bodies
The Return of 90s Slip Dresses
Asymmetric Tops and One Shoulder Styles
Chunky Jewellery and Statement Pieces
Lattice Shoes: Ballet Flats and Slip-On Shoes
Final Thoughts: Summer Style with Stephanie
In this episode of the Style for Life podcast, Stephanie Rumble – New Zealand-based fashion stylist, colour consultant, and accountability coach – shares her expert take on the top summer fashion trends shaping wardrobes across the country.
Drawing on decades of experience and what she sees in stores like Glassons, Zara, Ruby NZ, and Forever New, Stephanie unpacks which trends are dominating high summer in Aotearoa. With practical styling tips, brand recommendations, and wardrobe-building advice, this episode is essential listening for anyone wanting to update their look with quality clothes that flatter and feel great to wear.
Below is a complete breakdown of the trends Stephanie covered – and how you can incorporate them into your summer wardrobe.
Chocolate Brown Is the New Black
One of the most surprising but dominant colours this season is chocolate brown. Stephanie highlights that shades of cool brown and warm brown are everywhere, making it a stylish alternative to black. Whether in tailored pants or relaxed summer tops, brown tones work well with a variety of skin tones – provided you pick the right undertone.
“Chocolate brown is everywhere right now and serves as a great summer alternative to wearing black.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
Stephanie points out that chocolate brown co-ords (matching sets) are especially popular, and she’s spotted this trend in retailers like Max Clothing, Juliette Hogan, Zara, and Ruby NZ.
Styling tips:
Use colour analysis to find your perfect brown tone.
Mix brown prints with lighter neutrals like cream or beige.
Pair chocolate brown with gold or bronze accessories for warmth.
“Fashion trends tend to trickle in throughout the season, so we see new collections dropping all the way through the high summer months.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
There’s a sense of timelessness about brown that makes it a smart addition to any wardrobe. And with clothing sales ramping up as summer peaks, it’s the perfect time to experiment with this versatile hue.
Long Skirts Are Back in Style
Long skirts are making a strong comeback this summer. Stephanie notes that they’re flattering across all body types and styles, and recalls similar silhouettes from the early 90s that are now trending once again.
Some popular styles include:
Elastic waistbands for comfort.
Yoke designs that flatter the waist and add structure.
Subtle pleating or volume from the hips down.
These skirts allow for graceful movement, pair well with sandals or ballet flats, and transition beautifully from day to evening. Stephanie recommends checking out Forever New, Glassons, and Northlands Christchurch for stylish options that suit a wide range of women.
Photos: Glassons (Left), Ruby (Centre & Right)
“The long skirt is back in all forms, and it remains one of the most flattering trends for women of all ages.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
Whether you're dressing it down with a tee or elevating it with a silk cami, the long skirt is a versatile seasonal staple you’ll want in your wardrobe. For more personalised advice on choosing pieces that flatter your shape, a body shape consultation with Stephanie can help you feel more confident in every outfit you wear.
Co-Ord Sets: Matching Made Easy
Also known as co-ord sets, these matching top-and-bottom outfits offer incredible styling flexibility. Stephanie swears by them for travel, everyday wear, and casual work settings.
“Matching sets, or co-ords, are incredibly useful for travel because you can easily split them up to mix and match.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
Whether it’s a skirt set, wide-leg trousers, or shorts, these statement pieces can be mixed and matched with wardrobe staples to create fresh, modern looks.
Brands to explore:
Juliette Hogan (elegant, high-quality pieces).
Zara (fashion-forward co-ords).
Kowtow (conscious, stylish basics).
Co-ords are a clever way to build a capsule wardrobe. They reduce decision fatigue while expanding your outfit possibilities. Stephanie often travels with two or three co-ord sets, styling them up or down with ease.
For tailored help in finding co-ords and other seasonal outfits that reflect your personality, consider booking personal shopping with Stephanie.
Cloud Dancer and How to Wear White
Cloud dancer is the poetic name for this season’s trending whites. Stephanie breaks it down into four key tones:
Bright white (great for cool skin tones).
Silk white (universally flattering).
Ivory (ideal for warm tones).
Vanilla (a soft, creamy variant).
Photos: Max (Left), Glassons (Centre & Right)
“Knowing whether you suit warm or cool tones is essential for choosing the right shades for your unique complexion.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
Stephanie encourages women not to fear white. It’s clean, elegant, and endlessly versatile. For best results, match your white to your undertone, then incorporate it into co-ords, long skirts, or summer layering.
“The 'Cloud Dancer' trend is all about embracing whites, creams, and vanillas for a fresh, summer expression.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
Pieces to try:
A white cardigan for coverage.
A shrug cardigan over sleeveless tops or slip dresses.
White statement pieces that brighten your entire look.
Wearing white is about confidence and clever styling. Whether you go monochrome or add contrast, cloud dancer shades bring freshness and sophistication to your summer wardrobe.
Cardigans: The Layer You Didn’t Know You Needed
Cardigans are back in a big way. They’re not just for layering but also work beautifully as standalone pieces. From cropped, button-up styles to shrug cardigans, they’re versatile and stylish.
“A cardigan is a fantastic summer piece to add to your wardrobe, offering a lighter alternative to a blazer.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
Stephanie loves pairing cardigans with dresses, slip-on shoes, or wide-leg trousers. Sleeveless and lightweight styles are showing up in stores like Witchery, Ruby NZ, and Zimmermann.
Popular styles this season include:
Fitted knits worn as tops.
Long-line lightweight designs.
Shrug cardigans for light arm coverage.
Cardigans offer effortless layering that works in both summer and transitional weather. They add just the right touch of structure while still feeling soft and wearable.
Low Rise: Wide-Leg Jeans Are Back
Yes, the low rise, wide-leg jeans trend has returned. Stephanie recommends Nudie Jeans, which offer a variety of leg lengths to suit both tall and petite frames.
These jeans sit on or just below the belly button and work well with tucked-in tops, cropped tanks, or floaty blouses. Stephanie suggests investing in a high-quality pair that retains its shape and flatters the silhouette.
Why they work:
They elongate the leg line.
They balance out fitted tops and jackets.
They allow for comfort and breathability.
“If you buy good quality clothes, you will find they stay around for a long time and eventually come back on trend.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
While some may be hesitant about the return of low rise, Stephanie assures listeners that, styled right, they offer a flattering and current look. For more one-on-one advice on how to build outfits that suit your lifestyle, a full styling consultation can help you rediscover your personal style.
Low Rise: Longer Shorts for Real Bodies
If you usually avoid shorts, this trend may be a game-changer. The low rise, longer shorts style provides a more relaxed, flattering fit and is perfect for summer heat.
Stephanie has seen these in Glassons, Zara, and General Pants Co, and loves that they offer coverage without compromising on style.
What to look for:
Mid-thigh or knee-skimming lengths.
Low rise shorts that sit comfortably at the hips.
Lightweight, breathable fabrics like denim or cotton.
Pair them with a loose tee or structured blouse, and complete the look with chunky necklaces or slip-on shoes. These shorts blend comfort and confidence beautifully.
The Return of 90s Slip Dresses
Stephanie is delighted that 90s slip dresses are trending again. She highlights brands like Silk Laundry for their luxe, bias-cut silhouettes that flatter all body shapes.
Slip dresses are:
Ideal for layering (over mesh tops or under cardigans).
Perfect for warm summer days and resort wear.
Easy to style up or down.
“The nineties slip dress is the ultimate hot-weather staple, remaining timeless and beautiful in its quality.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
Their versatility lies in their simplicity. Add chunky jewellery for a polished look, or layer with a shrug cardigan for daytime ease. Stephanie also points to labels like Kate Sylvester and Sass and Bide for timeless options.
Asymmetric Tops and One Shoulder Styles
Asymmetric tops and the asymmetrical one shoulder top style are everywhere this season. Stephanie shares favourites from Zadig and Voltaire, Zimmermann, and Fashion Society.
“Asymmetric and one-shoulder tops add a funky, modern twist to your wardrobe that feels both current and nostalgic.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
Why they work:
They highlight the shoulders and collarbone.
They add modern flair to an outfit.
They pair easily with trousers, jeans or skirts.
Experiment with sleeve styles and fabrics. These tops bring subtle drama to an outfit while remaining wearable and refined.
Chunky Jewellery and Statement Pieces
Accessories can elevate even the simplest outfit. Stephanie recommends incorporating chunky jewellery and chunky necklaces to add interest and dimension.
“True confidence starts from within, and we explore the emotional, physical, and practical sides of style to help you feel self-assured.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
From bold chain links to bright resin pieces, look for:
Necklaces that frame the neckline.
Earrings that flatter your face shape.
Statement pieces that reflect your personal style.
Available at World, Storm, and La Visa, these accents can completely transform your look. Consider touches of turquoise fashion for a pop of colour this season.
Lattice Shoes: Ballet Flats and Slip-On Shoes
Summer footwear trends are leaning toward comfort with flair. Stephanie spotlights some essential shoe styles:
Birkenstocks (practical and stylish).
Lattice shoes (woven detail for texture).
Ballet flats (timeless and chic).
Slip-on shoes (casual and easy to wear).
These options pair well with long skirts, cropped trousers, or low rise shorts. They offer the ideal blend of ease and elegance for a Kiwi summer.
“Trends definitely come and go, but high-quality pieces allow you to rework and bring back items you have owned for years.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
Whether you're headed to the shops, lunch with friends, or walking along the beach, these shoes keep you grounded in comfort and confidence all summer long.
Final Thoughts: Summer Style with Stephanie
The 2026 high summer fashion trends shared by Stephanie Rumble in this podcast reflect a powerful blend of comfort, self-expression, and seasonal practicality. Every trend mentioned is wearable and adaptable to various ages, sizes, and lifestyles.
Stephanie encourages intentional shopping: look for quality clothes, use colour analysis to guide your palette, and take advantage of seasonal clothing sales. The key message is clear – style isn’t just about what you wear, but how it makes you feel.
From chocolate brown co-ords to turquoise fashion accessories, this season offers something for everyone. Whether you're shopping in-store at Northlands Christchurch or exploring pieces from brands like Juliette Hogan, Zimmermann, or Kowtow, you’re sure to find styles that help you show up as your best self.
If you're ready to refresh your wardrobe and redefine your confidence, explore fashion styling in New Zealand, or dive into a wardrobe audit service to streamline what you already own.
Stephanie Rumble and the Style for Life podcast are all about empowering you through fashion, whatever your stage of life. Embrace the trends that resonate with you, and let your wardrobe reflect the confidence you deserve.
Listen on Spotify
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key summer fashion trends in New Zealand for 2026?
The key summer fashion trends include chocolate brown tones, long skirts, co-ord sets, cloud dancer whites, low rise wide-leg jeans, and 90s-inspired slip dresses. These styles offer comfort, versatility, and personal expression. Many of them also transition well into the autumn season, making them practical as well as stylish.
How do I choose the right shade of white for my skin tone?
Stephanie recommends identifying your undertone first. Cool undertones generally suit bright white or silk white, while warm undertones look best in ivory or vanilla shades. A personalised colour analysis is the best way to know exactly what flatters you.
Are co-ord sets a good investment for summer style?
Yes! Co-ord sets offer incredible versatility. You can wear the matching set together for a polished look or split them up to mix and match with your existing wardrobe. They also pack well for travel and save time when getting dressed.
How can I wear long skirts without feeling overwhelmed?
Look for styles that are more fitted around the waist or hips, such as yoke skirts or those with elastic waistbands. These create shape and flow without adding bulk. Pair them with fitted tops or tucked-in blouses to maintain balance.
Is chunky jewellery still in fashion?
Absolutely. Chunky necklaces and bold statement pieces are back in a big way. They’re a great way to elevate a simple outfit and add personality to your look. Stephanie recommends layering them with confidence and experimenting with textures.
Can low rise jeans be flattering?
They can! Look for wide-leg styles in a structured fabric and ensure the fit sits comfortably just below your natural waist. Pairing them with a tucked or cropped top helps balance proportions and show off your silhouette in a fresh way.
What’s the best way to wear a 90s slip dress in 2026?
Slip dresses are incredibly versatile. You can wear them solo for warm days or layer with a mesh top, fitted tee, or cardigan for more coverage. Stephanie often recommends pairing them with gold accessories or sneakers for a modern twist.
What footwear works best with summer outfits?
Popular choices include Birkenstocks, ballet flats, lattice shoes, and slip-ons. These options balance comfort and style and pair well with everything from long skirts to shorts. They also make great transitional pieces heading into autumn.
How do I know which body shape styles will suit me?
Getting a professional body shape consultation can help you identify the cuts, fabrics, and details that work best for you. This includes understanding your proportions and which styles naturally highlight your best features. Stephanie offers this service to help you dress with ease and clarity.
Where can I get help creating a wardrobe that works for me?
A wardrobe audit is the perfect place to start. It helps you sort what you own, identify gaps, and build a smart, wearable collection. Stephanie’s wardrobe audit service includes expert tips, styling advice, and guidance to help you feel great in every outfit.
