Welcome to 10 Things to Buy, a monthly shopping list designed to help you elevate your style by focusing on the ten key items to add to your cart each month. As a Who What Wear editor for the past eleven years, I’ve witnessed countless trends rise and fall, and I’ve learned that investing in a few well-chosen pieces can make a monumental difference in your overall look. April focused on transitional pieces – layering essentials and versatile jackets – but May marks a distinct shift towards early summer styles: lighter fabrics, brighter colors, and a playful embrace of emerging trends. This month’s list balances practical basics with a few statement pieces that will ensure you’re looking effortlessly chic all season long. And as you’ll quickly discover, some trends are having a serious moment – bug-eye sunglasses are everywhere, and lightweight balloon pants are taking over. Let’s dive in!
The shift from transitional to early summer styles reflects a broader trend of adapting wardrobes to changing weather patterns. It’s about anticipating the warmth and embracing the lighter, more airy aesthetics that define this season. Focusing on versatile basics alongside trend pieces allows for greater flexibility in styling options, ensuring you can create a multitude of outfits with a curated selection of key items. The resurgence of silhouettes like balloon pants highlights cyclical trends in fashion, demonstrating that what was once considered ‘out’ can quickly become ‘in.’ Let’s get started with the top 13 fashion items you should be buying this May 2026.
1. Bug-Eye Sunglasses: A Bold Statement
Let’s address the elephant – or rather, the oversized eye – in the room: bug-eye sunglasses are the eyewear trend of the moment. As per usual, people are suddenly trading slim oval shades for oversize bug-eye sunglasses. These dramatic frames, reminiscent of 1980s pop icons, are popping up on runways and red carpets alike, and street style stars are embracing them wholeheartedly. They add a fashionable touch to outfits and instantly inject a dose of playful energy into any look. Khaite x Oliver Peoples 1967C Round-Frame Acetate Sunglasses capture the essence of this trend with their sophisticated take on the oversized silhouette, while free people Noir Buggy Sunglasses offer a more casual, bohemian vibe. The popularity of these sunglasses fluctuates throughout the year, mirroring broader shifts in fashion aesthetics – a reminder that trends are often cyclical. Interestingly, the resurgence of this particular style is partly fueled by nostalgia, with many millennials and Gen Z consumers seeking a connection to the iconic fashion moments of their childhoods. The visual impact of bug-eye sunglasses is undeniable, and they’re a fantastic way to stand out from the crowd.
2. Lightweight Balloon Pants: The Comfy Cool Choice
One year ago, genie pants came back into relevance, and now, you’d be hard-pressed to find a brand that isn’t making its own version of the trend. Lightweight balloon pants, crafted from poplin, linen, or silk, are a smart purchase to make this month. They offer a relaxed, breezy feel while still maintaining a polished look. You’ll reach for them whenever it’s too hot for jeans but you don’t want to wear shorts. Zara’s Elastic Waist Balloon Pants are a particularly popular option, offering both comfort and style. EAVES Leny Parachute Pants provide a similar silhouette with a slightly more utilitarian feel. The key to styling these pants is to balance the volume – pairing them with a fitted top or a cropped sweater creates a visually appealing contrast. Consider the fabric – linen is ideal for warmer weather, while silk adds a touch of luxury. The rise of balloon pants reflects a broader trend of embracing comfortable yet stylish silhouettes, prioritizing ease of movement and a relaxed aesthetic.
3. Elevated Thong Sandals: Sophisticated Comfort
Flip-flops are still as popular as ever, but elevated thong sandals are the style du jour. These aren’t your average beach-going sandals; they’re designed to be worn with everything from dresses to denim shorts. Zero in on thong sandals made of leather, suede, calf hair, or satin. You’ll even find shockingly elevated jelly versions on the market this season, proving that even this casual footwear category is embracing trendier materials. Vince San Juan Thong Sandals offer a minimalist aesthetic, while A.EMERY Kinto Lizard-Effect Leather Flip Flops add a touch of glamour. Madewell’s The Iggy Thong Sandals are a versatile option that can be dressed up or down. The rise in popularity of elevated thong sandals highlights a growing desire for comfortable yet stylish footwear – a key element of modern wardrobes. The trend also speaks to a broader shift towards embracing more practical and comfortable shoe choices without sacrificing style.
4. Raglan Tees (Baseball Tees): A Nod to the Past
Raglan tees, or baseball tees, are the most noteworthy T-shirt trend this season. A raglan tee is a T-shirt with a diagonal stripe that extends from the neckline to the shoulder, typically on one side. There are a slew of color combinations on the market, and the fashion crowd is finding creative ways to style them. Add one to your wardrobe to join them. TNA Soft Feels Fender Longsleeve and Madewell’s The ‘90s Crewneck Tee in Compact Cotton are popular choices. The trend signifies a return to classic Americana style, with a nostalgic appeal that resonates with many consumers. The rise of raglan tees is part of a larger trend of embracing vintage-inspired pieces, highlighting the enduring appeal of iconic designs. It’s a subtle, yet powerful way to add a touch of retro cool to any outfit.
5. Satin Bermuda Shorts: A Summertime Dream
Don’t you love it when two trends combine to form a style that feels fresh and new? This season, that trend is satin Bermuda shorts. Among the options are lace-trimmed iterations, a chic continuation of the lace-trim silk shorts that went viral last summer. Reformation’s Drew Satin Shorts are a popular choice, offering a flattering fit and a luxurious feel. Babaton Mitte Satin Shorts provide a more refined option. The resurgence of satin shorts is a testament to the enduring appeal of luxurious fabrics and playful silhouettes. The combination of satin and the Bermuda short cut creates a sophisticated yet relaxed look, perfect for warm weather. The trend demonstrates a willingness to experiment with textures and silhouettes, pushing the boundaries of traditional summer fashion.
6. Raffia Bucket Hat: Sun Protection with Style
The start of summer is a great excuse to buy a trendy new hat. This year, the trend to spend your money on is a minimalist raffia bucket hat, which is a seasonal take on the felt bucket hats that were everywhere during winter. madewell’s Hand-Crocheted Seamless Bucket Hat in Raffia and COS’ Sculpted Straw Bucket Hat are both excellent choices. Bucket hats offer practical sun protection while adding a touch of bohemian chic to any outfit. The minimalist design ensures that the hat remains versatile and complements a wide range of styles. The shift from felt to raffia reflects a broader trend of embracing natural materials and earthy tones. It’s a subtle yet stylish accessory that elevates any summer look.
7. White Soft-Leather Flats: A Chic Replacement
It’s time to put the black ballet flats on hold in favor of white ones made of soft leather. Whether they’re loafers, minimalist ballet flats, or oxford shoes, your May outfits will look infinitely chicer. Toteme Leather Ballet Flats offer a high-fashion take on the classic silhouette, while more accessible options like Madewell’s White Leather Flats provide a comfortable and stylish alternative. The transition from black ballet flats to white ones is a reflection of a broader trend towards lighter, brighter colors in footwear. White flats are incredibly versatile, pairing well with everything from jeans to dresses. They’re a timeless classic that never goes out of style.
8. Lace-Trimmed Camisoles: Delicate Detail
From genie pants to lightweight balloon pants, the fashion landscape is constantly evolving, and lace-trimmed camisoles are the latest garment to catch on. It looks especially cool peeking out beneath a tee or lightweight sweater. Reformation’s Carolina Silk Top and MANGO’s Asymmetrical Lace Lingerie Top are both beautiful options. The trend speaks to a desire for delicate detailing and feminine silhouettes. Lace-trimmed camisoles add a touch of sophistication and romance to any outfit. They’re incredibly versatile, layering well under jackets, cardigans, and blazers. The resurgence of lace highlights a broader trend of embracing subtle embellishments and vintage-inspired details in contemporary fashion.
You may also enjoy reading: 7 Shorts Trends Every Fashion Person is Wearing in 2026.
9. Linen Dresses: Breathable Elegance
As the weather warms up, linen dresses become a wardrobe staple. Look for flowing maxi dresses or more fitted midi styles in neutral tones like beige, cream, or olive green. A-line silhouettes are particularly flattering, offering a comfortable and elegant look. Brands like Everlane and Eileen Fisher offer high-quality linen dresses that are both stylish and sustainable. Linen’s breathability makes it ideal for warm weather, while its textured appearance adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Investing in a few linen dresses is a smart move for building a versatile summer wardrobe. The popularity of linen reflects a growing interest in sustainable fabrics and timeless styles.
10. Wide-Leg Denim Jeans: Comfort and Style
Say goodbye to skinny jeans and hello to wide-leg denim! These relaxed-fit jeans are having a major moment this season. Look for high-waisted styles in light washes or classic indigo. Brands like Levi’s and AGOLDE offer a range of wide-leg denim options. The wide-leg silhouette is flattering on all body types, offering a comfortable and stylish alternative to more restrictive jeans styles. They’re perfect for pairing with everything from sneakers to heels. The resurgence of wide-leg denim is part of a broader trend towards embracing comfortable yet stylish silhouettes.
11. Statement Jewelry: Accessorize Your Look
Don’t underestimate the power of jewelry to elevate your outfit. This year, bold statement pieces are trending. Think chunky gold necklaces, oversized hoop earrings, and colorful gemstone bracelets. A single statement piece can instantly transform a simple look. Brands like Mejuri and Missoma offer a range of affordable and stylish jewelry options. Accessorizing is a great way to add personality and flair to your wardrobe.
12. Mesh Tops: Layering Magic
Mesh tops are a layering essential for May 2026. Pair them with camisoles, bralettes, or tank tops for a peek-a-boo effect. Brands like Free People and Zara offer a variety of mesh tops in different colors and styles. The trend is all about adding a touch of intrigue and texture to your outfits. Mesh tops are incredibly versatile and can be dressed up or down.
13. Pastel Colors: A Soft Palette
Embrace a soft and feminine color palette this May. Pastels like lavender, blush pink, and mint green are trending. Incorporate these colors into your clothing, accessories, and makeup. A pastel-colored dress or top is a perfect way to add a touch of sweetness to your wardrobe. The trend reflects a desire for light and airy colors, perfect for the warmer weather.
As the days get longer and the weather warms up, it’s time to refresh your wardrobe with these 13 fashion items. From bug-eye sunglasses to linen dresses, there’s something for everyone on this list. Remember, the key to building a stylish wardrobe is to invest in versatile pieces that you’ll love for years to come. Happy shopping!
