woman in the park wearing a gingham two piece romper in pink
Image via @the_odditty

True story: No matter what season it is, we’re always on board with pretty print dresses or tops (or jumpsuits, swimsuits, matching sets–you get the idea). There are certain prints, however, that just feel quintessentially summer. You know the type: As soon as you slip them on, you instantly feel the need to head outdoors to enjoy some fun in the sun–and maybe a refreshing cocktail. Sounds good, right? We think so, too.

Ahead, we’re breaking down the top four prints that should be in your closet this summer–and shopping out some of our current favorite examples. Whether you’re pattern-obsessed or you wear them sparingly, these print dresses, two-piece sets, tees, and more are guaranteed to bring the heat.

Gingham

Classic country-inspired gingham checks? Don’t mind if we do. From park picnics to summer day dates, this sweet print can take you anywhere this season. For an updated take, try it in a subtle pastel hue!

women wearing gingham clothing

Shop the Look: Love Me Sweeter Peach Gingham Puff Sleeve Midi Dress, Picnic Perfect Lavender Gingham Tiered Babydoll Dress, My Own Paradise Pink Gingham Two-Piece Romper

Tropical Prints

Wearing leafy botanical prints and tropical florals makes almost any occasion feel like a vacation. Whether you go bright or understated, if your pattern includes orchids, hibiscuses, palm leaves, and the like, you’ll bring the island vibes no matter where you are.

tropical print clothing on models

Shop the Look: Summer Magic Green Floral Print Puff Sleeve Wrap Top, Leaf it to Me Cream Leaf Print Tie-Front Crop Top and Leaf it to Me Cream Leaf Print Wide-Leg Pants, Tropic Dreaming White Floral Print Paper Bag Waist Shorts

Stripes

Sure, you can wear them all year round, but stripes in summer feel undeniably coastal. This season, we’re feeling seaside-ready linear prints in understated shades–think soft, sun-washed colors and timeless neutrals.

women wearing striped clothing

Shop the Look: Arianna Blue Striped Puff Sleeve Mini Dress, Ettna Mustard Yellow Striped Cutout Front Wide Leg Jumpsuit, Kiri Tan Striped Tee

Tie-Dye

Tie-dye clothing has made a monster comeback, allowing all of us to channel our inner surfer babes. It’s nearly impossible to wear this throwback trend and not be in a beachy state of mind, which is why it’s perfect for summer.  This year, you’ve got the option of everything from swimsuits to slip dresses that are, er, tie-dye for.

women wearing tie dye clothes

Shop the Look: Sugar High Rainbow Tie Dye Cutout One-Piece Swimsuit, Seeking Sunshine Green Tie Dye Cowl Neck Mini Slip Dress, Les Deux Pink Tie Dye Belted High Waisted Shorts

Which of these patterns are you picking up? Show us how you wear print dresses and more on Instagram @Lulus using #lovelulus–then shop even more summer fashion finds!