Do you hear that in the distance? It's our editors practically all pulling out their credit cards at once. That's right—the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is finally here, and as expected, we've already collectively spent hundreds of dollars.
As a Gen Z editor (and one of the youngest at Who What Wear!), I know a thing or two about what trends fashion people between the ages of 18 and 25 are obsessed with. Whether I see them IRL during a "research trip" (aka dillydallying) in the Lower East Side or via my TikTok algorithm, there are six summer trends already taking over my brain and online cart this summer.
From classic ballet flats to ultra-baggy Gen Z–approved jeans, these six Gen Z summer trends are the moment right now, and thanks to Nordstrom, they're all deeply discounted during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Run—don't walk—to get them before they sell out.
Colorful Sneakers
A fun, sporty pop of color will instantly elevate any outfit, according to Gen Zer. Just look at all of the trending sneakers over the last year and a half if it's any indication of the bright, in-your-face sneakers we love.
Maxi Skirts
Personally, there's nothing more Gen Z than a flowy maxi skirt. Whether it's a slip skirt, denim, or a cargo look, we're all about this summer staple. Wear with your favorite white tank of choice to let the skirt do all the talking.
Wide-Leg Jeans
Everyone I know wears wide-leg jeans—Gen Z included. Big pants + short shirt are how my friends and I dress off-hours, so it's no surprise that Nordstrom took note and discounted a ton of oversize denim styles for the Anniversary Sale.
Ballet Flats
Is there anything easier than ballet flats? Gen Z doesn't seem to think so. This slip-on style goes so well with miniskirts, jeans, and anything in between. It's no wonder this French-inspired shoe silhouette is some of the first to sell out when discounts hit.
Elevated Basics
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I'm Nordstrom's Associate Fashion Director—These Are the 8 Fall Items I Think Are StaplesMust-try trends.
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The Ultra-Rich Looking Color Trend That Better Than Black (Yes, Really)It's demure.
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I'm Forever Loyal to a Chic Black Shoe Style—5 Standout Picks I'm Eyeing Right NowIncredibly cool *and* comfortable.
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Madewell Is *So* Good Right Now—These 27 Chic Picks Are on Major SaleThese standout basics are a dream.
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I'm an L.A.-Based Fashion Stylist—31 Chic Nordstrom Picks I'd Like to See My Clients InI may have to get them for myself as well.
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I Want an Expensive-Looking Fall Wardrobe—38 Elegant Nordstrom Items I'm AfterFrom Mango to Toteme.
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If a Parisian Shopped the Surprise Nordstrom Sale, They'd Go for These 40 On-Trend ItemsChic selects ahead.
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Nordstrom Just Launched a Major New Sale—These 40 Discounted Items Will Elevate Your Fall WardrobeIncredible deals ahead.
