Kristen Barbee is a lifelong lover of Western and bohemian styles. After working in marketing for her family's cattle and horse ranch, she launched her online boutique in 2021, Honey Loves Boho, and this May, she opened her first brick-and-mortar store on Camp Bowie Boulevard. The boutique is full of bold colors, playful textures, and inclusive fashion, with sizes XS to 3X and the newest addition to the brand, a bridal collection. Kristen knows about personal style, and after years of growing her business, she's trained to predict what's next, making her the ultimate guide to Summer 2025's fashion trends.
Let's dive into her expert insights on the hottest summer looks!
1. Bold Colors and Coastal Prints
"You'll be seeing a lot of bold colors, coastal prints, and very coquette feminine pieces," Kristen says. "Resort wear is huge this season, so whether you're traveling abroad or just hitting the beach, you'll have so many great options." Think vibrant greens, sunlit yellows, and breezy stripes. These joyful patterns evoke carefree summer vibes, perfect for everything from oceanside vacations to backyard gatherings.
2. Summer's Standout Shades
"Sage green, stripes, bows, and coastal prints dominate this season," Kristen notes. "It's all about that resort style." These colors bring a fresh and playful charm to your wardrobe. Whether it's a flowy maxi dress or a statement blouse, incorporating these shades will add instant summer flair.
3. Wardrobe Staples for Endless Styling
When it comes to versatile essentials, Kristen recommends:
- Denim Dress: "A denim dress is a summer must-have. Dress it down with sandals or up with heels and statement jewelry."
- Sundress: "It's timeless, breezy, and comfortable—your best friend in the Texas heat."
- Bodysuits: "Perfect for layering, they add sleekness to any look."
- White Denim: "Classic white jeans go with everything and instantly brighten up any outfit."
4. Bohemian Style with a Modern Twist
"Layering a flowy bohemian-style printed dress with a denim vest or lace shirt underneath is a fresh way to elevate your wardrobe," Kristen shares. This playful blend of textures brings a free-spirited charm while the added layer creates visual interest.
5. Must-Have Accessories
No summer outfit is complete without the right accessories. Kristen's top picks include:
- Charm Necklaces: "These add a personal touch and a bit of whimsy."
- Twilly Scarves: "Wrap one around your neck, wrist, or even your bag for a chic accent."
- Straw or Woven Bags: "Effortlessly stylish and functional for any summer outing."
- Trucker Hats and Clip-On Hat Chains: "A fun and practical choice that adds an edge to your look."
6. Western-Inspired Without Going Full Cowboy
"You can take a classic maxi skirt, add a denim vest on top, a pair of cowboy boots, and tie a twilly scarf around your neck for the perfect understated western look," Kristen suggests. This balanced approach embraces Fort Worth's Western heritage without feeling costume-like.
7. The Return of Skinny Jeans
"I love that skinny jeans are starting to return," Kristen says enthusiastically. "As a millennial, that makes my heart so happy!" Whether paired with an oversized top or a tailored blazer, skinny jeans remain a sleek and flattering option.
8. Lightweight Layers for Texas Heat
"A mesh top can be a staple for layering, either underneath a dress or worn on its own with a cute tank or bodysuit," Kristen advises. It's a breezy option that adds texture without overheating. Plus, the sheer effect brings a hint of allure to your summer wardrobe.
9. Day-to-Night Style
"Taking a sundress from day to night is simple," Kristen explains. "Slip on some heels, add statement earrings or a necklace, and you're ready for a dressier look." Sundresses are an effortless one-and-done solution for summer plans that stretch from brunch to evening cocktails.
10. Mixing Vintage and Modern
"Layering vintage pieces with modern accessories or pairing a modern dress with vintage jewelry is a beautiful balance," Kristen suggests. This mix creates a personalized style with depth and character.
11. Embracing Sustainable Fashion
"I love that thrifting is in style," Kristen shares. "Purchasing a quality piece from a brand or boutique, then adding some thrifted accessories is a wonderful way to cut down on fast fashion."
Bonus Summer Essential: "If I had to pick one ultimate summer essential, it would definitely be a sundress," Kristen says. Versatile, flattering, and effortlessly cool, it's the perfect piece to keep you looking and feeling fabulous all season long.
Stay stylish, Fort Worth! Embrace the sunshine, play with bold prints, and dress joyfully – because summer 2025 is all about celebrating your unique style.