💁‍♀️ 10 Things Elegant Ladies NEVER Wear In Summer – Do You Make These Style Mistakes?

If you're trying to look elegant and expensive this summer — not just “cute” or “casual” — there are some fashion traps you’ll want to avoid. In her viral video, Anna Bey breaks down the 10 things elegant women should never wear in summer, and honestly? She’s not wrong.

This isn't about being perfect or “above” trends — it's about making intentional choices that elevate your image. I watched the entire video and I’m reacting to each point with my own take as a style strategist for real women who want to radiate sophistication.

Let’s dive in — you may be surprised by what’s on this list!

1. Mom-Style Denim Shorts 🚫

You know those ultra-high-waisted, stiff denim shorts with raw hems? Yeah... those. Anna calls them “diaper-like” — and honestly, it’s hard to disagree.

Why they don’t work:

• They add bulk to the midsection

• Often create an awkward profile

• Look too casual (and sometimes sloppy)

✨ Elegant alternative: A tailored linen or cotton short with a soft pleat and clean hem. Chic, breathable, and polished.

2. High-Cut Bikini Bottoms 👙

Pulled up to the hips and beyond — this trend may elongate legs, but it also draws attention to places we’d rather keep a little mysterious. It’s giving Borat, not Bond girl.

✨ Elegant alternative: Try a classic mid-rise bikini or one-piece with subtle shaping and support. Feminine doesn’t need to scream for attention.

3. Rubber Flip-Flops (Beyond the Pool) 🩴

Even if they’re comfy, plastic flip-flops belong at the beach — not at brunch or on city sidewalks.

Anna even calls out Birkenstocks and platform flip-flops here, saying they strip away femininity. She’s team leather sandals — and I fully agree.

✨ Elegant alternative: A flat leather sandal, like the minimalist Oran style. Looks great with dresses and casual outfits.

4. Cotton Rompers (aka Playsuits) 👎

These might look cute at first glance, but the fit, the material, and the “toddler energy” they bring? Not it.

They often ride up, flatten curves, and don’t flatter the feminine form — especially for hourglass shapes. Anna warns they can even highlight the wrong areas.

✨ Elegant alternative: A linen or structured romper with defined tailoring or a relaxed summer dress with movement.

5. “Pretty Woman” Nylon Fabric 👗

You know that shiny, scrunched fabric from that Julia Roberts scene? Yep — it’s back. But instead of romantic, it looks outdated and cheap in bikinis and dresses.

✨ Elegant alternative: Stick to flowy natural fabrics (chiffon, cotton poplin, silk blends) that drape and flatter — not cling and crinkle.

6. Tiny Floral Prints (Especially on Cotton) 🌸

This one might be controversial. Not all florals are bad, but those small ditsy prints — especially on casual cotton dresses — are a major elegance killer.

They’re everywhere during summer, but Anna reminds us that “common” doesn’t equal “classy.”

✨ Elegant alternative: Opt for larger floral patterns on elevated fabrics. Think structured silhouettes, not prairie chic.

7. Cycling Shorts as Clothing ❌

Unless you're headed to spin class, please let’s retire the skin-tight spandex cycling short trend. Especially when worn with a crop top or sports bra out and about.

Anna says it clearly: they’re not elegant, they’re not flattering, and they’re definitely not timeless.

✨ Elegant alternative: A structured pair of Bermuda shorts or a midi skirt. Comfort + class.

8. Racerback Tank Tops (with Visible Bra Straps) 🙅‍♀️

This one might hit home — but racerback tanks, especially in cheap cotton, do little to flatter a feminine figure. Even worse: visible bra straps that don't align.

✨ Elegant alternative: A fitted sleeveless blouse in a higher quality fabric or a knit tank with wide straps — paired with a strapless or racerback bra underneath.

9. Oversized Polyester Tunics 😬

Especially common among older or plus-size women trying to “hide” their bodies, these oversized tunics often end up doing the opposite — making you look bigger and boxier.

Anna urges: don’t hide your curves. Accentuate them strategically instead.

✨ Elegant alternative: Go for flowy tops that skim the body and define the waist gently, rather than swallowing your silhouette.

10. Basic T-Shirts as Daily Wear 👕

Controversial, but Anna makes a point: T-shirts are casual by nature, and if you want to present yourself with elegance, opt for short-sleeve tops instead.

What’s the difference?

• T-shirts = loose, shapeless, often low-quality cotton

• Short-sleeve tops = tailored, fitted, and often made with better materials

✨ Even a simple blouse or structured knit top can elevate your look instantly.

💬 Final Thoughts from Emilly

You don’t need to toss your entire wardrobe — but if elegance is your goal, these insights are golden.

I love how Anna challenges us to go beyond trends and really think about the image we’re projecting. Because in the end, elegance isn’t about money — it’s about intention.

Want to look expensive this summer? It starts with knowing what to leave behind.

🎥 Credits

Inspired by the video:
“10 Things Elegant Ladies NEVER Wear In Summer!”
by Anna Bey – Watch it here: https://youtu.be/HRJgvWqbKfU?si=tRp8n3YDwwYL06VI
All fashion insights and visual inspiration are based on her expert content. Go support her brilliant channel!