6-28-2026 MY INSPO: what's hot in the adriatic

the past two weeks i enjoyed people watching both tourists and locals alike, and i can boldly report some trends found on the shiny ancient dalmatian streets:

suit up for summer

girls and women of every age enjoy a deconstructed, 90℉ weather appropriate office wear. i overheard seniors in high school discuss their final exams that will help them determine their college course, all while sipping on their macchiatos and wearing perfectly combined suit sets, found in zara, h&m and other fashion forward stores in the mall. sleeveless vests, a cropped top beneath a blazer, and only shades of cream beige, tan, and camel. steer clear from dark colors.

preppy peplum

i don't own many peplum outfits, but i feel like they're generally well fitted for anyone. this case is confirmed while people watching during late night summer concerts. peplum tops are generally favored in croatian society. if you have an old peplum top you may have not gotten rid of, keep it for another season or so.

summer shades

chic gold-wired rims with various shapes - the smaller the better. every single girl here has a trusty pair of microsunnies. so do i, but ironically i only packed my giant chanels and y2k gucci sunnies fiancé is hogging currently.

bandana vs hats

the tourists of dubrovnik have been protecting from the sun using a grace kelly/jackie o bandana, executing their strands perfectly for a whimsical and effortless look. bandanas are found in various colors and patterns. from your trendsetter logo mania to a classic polka dot. if you're fearing looking like you're ready to hunt alligators, beach hats and fedoras are another bold choice. just make sure not to style it like an online incel, pwincess.

in mood for maxi? go boho

if you're looking into oversized during the summer, flown long pants, maxi skirts and layers in linen and organza are a must - but only if you add boho details: earthy colors, tribal patterns, and eastern influence.

an every-girl shoe

i was impressed by the variation of shoe choice, even during my friend's wedding, girls prepped their comfy change of shoe immediately, not wasting more time suffering. from a strappy sandal with florals to your classic adidas samba and spezial, to a more casual, beachgoer look with a birkenstock. my mom has a pair of neon green one-strap pair that's rubber and perfect for gardening and running to the store. she bought sib and i a pair of black and olive two-strap ones two years ago, and this shoe continues to dominate. 

speaking of wedding wear...

as a newly engaged woman, i am paying more attention to the wedding attire and culture. not just from a standpoint of a guest, but rather a researcher. fiancé and i were guests at a true croatian wedding for my good high school friend, and i have to say - americans - you're blowing things out of proportion! no bridesmaid coordination, and even people wearing off-white - no one bats an eye. long halter dresses in silk are very popular, but i truly adored a dress from my high school friend who also attended as a guest. layered halter dress in bright orange, she was a star on the dance floor.

what are men wearing?

other than the armani exchange logo tees and man purses, some men are borrowing their wives' skinny jeans now that the ladies are resorting to a barrel pant or wide legs.