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21 sizzling AliExpress finds for summer 23

When it comes to staying fashion-forward without draining your bank account, uncovering affordable alternatives to high-end brands can be a game-changer. Zara, renowned for its trendy and stylish collections, never fails to captivate fashion enthusiasts with its summer designs.

Velena Nikolova in a black leather jacket holding a takeaway coffee, looking at the camera in front of a dark buildingBy Velena Nikolova27 June 20238 minute read

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Velena Nikolova with platinum hair in a black fringed top, a selfie

However, the hefty price tags associated with these pieces can sometimes make us hesitant. Fear not! I’ve meticulously scoured the vast selection of Aliexpress to curate an exhilarating list of summer Zara dupes and trendy clothes that will leave you spellbound, all available at jaw-dropping prices.

As a user generated content (UGC) creator and an influencer I get a lot of PR packages with clothes and whilst this is absolutely amazing I still love shopping. However I do love a good bargain. So prepare to revitalize your wardrobe without compromising your style or financial plans.

AliExpress Tops

This summer, tops are all about embracing uniqueness and individuality. While basic tank tops remain popular, there’s a twist compared to last year. Now, they come with extra details such as rhinestones, shells, or intricate string designs. Other trendy options include pleated asymmetry, tube tops, y2k vintage tops, halter necks, linen materials, knit tops, and backless or strapless styles. The key is to find tops that are both sexy and comfortable without going overboard.

If you’re looking for affordable options to rock this summer, here are my top picks, all available for less than £10:

Seamless top with Rhinestones

Linen Top

A retailer's product picture: an AliExpress product listing

Backless Lace Up Top

A retailer's product picture: an AliExpress product listing

Tube Top Corset

A retailer's product picture: an AliExpress product listing

Off Shoulder Knit Tube Top

A retailer's product picture: an AliExpress product listing

AliExpress Trousers

PRINTED CULOTTES

Hey there! If you’re looking for the hottest trousers this summer, you’ve gotta check out the TRAF Women Fashion Printed Flowing Wide Leg Pants. These babies are all about embracing comfort while staying trendy. Forget about those uncomfortable tight shorts; this season is all about rocking pyjama-looking clothes.

What makes these trousers so popular is their laid-back vibe. They have a loose and relaxed fit, perfect for those lazy summer days. Plus, they come with a high elastic waistband and drawstrings, so you can adjust them to your liking. Talk about ultimate comfort, right?

A retailer's product picture: an AliExpress product listing

The wide leg design of these pants not only adds a touch of vintage flair but also allows for easy movement and breathability. They’re great for staying cool in the summer heat. And the best part? You can dress them up or down. Pair them with a casual tee for a relaxed daytime look or dress them up with a cute blouse for a night out.

Now, here’s the cherry on top: you can snag these trendy trousers for just £10 on AliExpress, while they go for around £40 at stores like Zara. So you can look fabulous without breaking the bank. It’s a win-win!

Straight Pants

The best part? You can now grab these pants from AliExpress for just £13 in your preferred colour. That’s a steal compared to the original price of £30 at Uniqlo. With their side pockets, patchwork design, and high waist, these pants exude a vintage charm while offering a modern and casual look. The zipper fly adds a touch of convenience and ease.

Whether you dress them up or down, these pants are a fashion-forward choice that will elevate your wardrobe. The affordability and availability in various colours on AliExpress make them a must-have for those who want to stay stylish without breaking the bank.

A retailer's product picture: an AliExpress product listing

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to join the trend and grab a pair of these Women Fashion Side Pockets Patchwork Straight Pants. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

AliExpress Skirts

This summer, it’s clear that midi and maxi skirts are taking centre stage. Nothing beats the comfort of a long skirt, allowing you to sit down comfortably at a picnic or move around without constantly adjusting it. Maxi skirts not only offer comfort but also exude elegance, effortlessly pairing with any kind of top.

Without further ado, here are my top picks for summer skirts, and the best part is they come at an absolute bargain, all priced under £15:

Vintage Denim Midi Skirt

Velena Nikolova in a white vest, a denim maxi skirt and sunglasses by a radiator

Elegant Satin Black Maxi Skirt

Satin skirts are a timeless and luxurious wardrobe staple. With their smooth and lustrous texture, satin skirts add an elegant touch to any outfit. They effortlessly transition from day to night, making them a versatile choice for various occasions. Whether you opt for a midi or maxi length, satin skirts exude sophistication and a touch of glamour. Pair them with a casual top for a chic daytime look or dress them up with a blouse and heels for an evening out. Embrace the allure of satin and elevate your style with these stylish and timeless skirts.

A retailer's product picture: an AliExpress product listing

AliExpress Dresses

Just like midi skirts, midi dresses have taken the fashion scene by storm this summer. They offer a fantastic look that combines both elegance and style. There’s a certain allure to the flowy and princess-like aesthetic that is trending this year, emphasizing femininity and grace. Additionally, cut-out dresses have gained significant popularity as well.

The exciting news is that bright colours are at the forefront of fashion trends right now. So, if you’re keen on making a bold statement, vibrant hues are the way to go. However, if you prefer a more understated approach, neutral tones always remain popular and versatile.

Without further ado, here are my top choices for dresses this summer:

White Midi Backless Dress

A retailer's product picture: an AliExpress product listing

Floral Slip Dress

A retailer's product picture: an AliExpress product listing

Vacation Bandage Beach Dress

A retailer's product picture: an AliExpress product listing

AliExpress Shoes

Open Toe Gladiator Sandals

These sandals have become the go-to choice for fashionistas this summer, and let me tell you why. The trend right now is all about being comfortable, and these flat sandals are nailing it, replacing those uncomfortable heels. They are my absolute favourite AliExpress find.

What makes these sandals so popular is their focus on providing ultimate comfort without compromising on style. They feature a flat sole and an open toe design, perfect for keeping your feet happy and cool during those hot summer days. Say goodbye to sore feet!

A retailer's product picture: an AliExpress product listing

Thick Platform Flip Flops

Unlike traditional flip flops, these sandals offer a superior level of comfort that will keep your feet happy all day long.

But that’s not all! These sandals are incredibly versatile and can be effortlessly paired with any outfit, including jeans. Whether you’re going for a casual beach look or a laid-back day out, these sandals will add a touch of style to your ensemble and keep you comfortable throughout.

Four pairs of chunky foam flip flops in cream, pink, green and tan on concrete, one pair worn

While high-street shops may charge you over £30 for similar shoes, you can snag these Women Flip Flops Thick Bottom Platform Sandals for less than £10 on AliExpress. That’s a fantastic deal that allows you to stay on-trend without breaking the bank.

Flat Bottom Women’s Shoes

The trend of the season is all about embracing comfort, and flat sandals are the new go-to choice over those uncomfortable heels.

What sets these sandals apart is their focus on providing maximum comfort without sacrificing style. They feature a thick bottom wedge heel that offers a slight lift while still keeping your feet firmly planted on the ground. This design provides excellent support and stability, making them ideal for long walks or casual outings.

You know what makes these sandals even cooler? They’ve been spotted on the TV show Friends quite often, adding to their popularity. It’s no surprise that people are loving the effortless and trendy look these sandals bring to the table.

A retailer's product picture: an AliExpress product listing

Now, let’s talk about the price. While shops like Zara may sell similar shoes for around £30, you can grab these Slippers Women Thick Bottom Wedge Heel Outer Wear for an incredible price of just £4 on AliExpress. It’s a steal that allows you to stay on-trend without breaking the bank.

Women’s Summer Flats

For several years, these summer shoes have remained trendy. They are affordable alternatives to the luxurious Hermes H sandals, priced at £570. Surprisingly, you can grab them for a mere £8 on AliExpress. And let me assure you, they certainly don’t compromise on quality. Not only do they come in various colours, but they also exude an air of elegance and lightness that perfectly suits the summer season.

A retailer's product picture: an AliExpress product listing

AliExpress Accessories

When it comes to summer accessories, the key is to embrace those beach girl vibes. Think about incorporating shells into your accessories, whether it’s in the form of jewelry, hair clips, or even embellishments on bags. Linen scarves add a touch of effortless style, while cute anklets bring a playful and carefree feel to your look. Don’t forget about bucket hats and y2k-inspired sunglasses for that trendy and nostalgic touch.

Hair claws continue to dominate the accessory game, offering a practical and stylish way to keep your hair neat and away from your face. Consider opting for crochet bags for a boho and beachy vibe, or go for small, clean aesthetic basket bags for a chic and minimalist look.

So, this summer, elevate your style by incorporating these accessories that capture the essence of those laid-back beach girl vibes. Whether it’s shells, linen scarves, anklets, hats, sunglasses, hair claws, or bags, there’s something for everyone to enhance their summer ensembles with a touch of coastal charm.

Summer Bucket Hat

A retailer's product picture: an AliExpress product listing

Shell Beach Hats

A retailer's product picture: an AliExpress product listing

Denim Bucket Hat

A retailer's product picture: an AliExpress product listing

Natural Sea Shell Bracelet

A retailer's product picture: an AliExpress product listing

Vintage Rectangle Fashion Sunglasses

A retailer's product picture: an AliExpress product listing

It’s important to remember that embracing a more natural look is the ultimate trend this year. Embracing nature and feeling comfortable in our own skin is key. It’s always better to wear outfits that make you feel confident rather than blindly following trends that don’t truly reflect your personal style and individuality.

During the summer, it’s advisable to opt for a lighter makeup look to avoid smudging from the heat. Let your natural beauty shine through and enhance it with minimalistic touches. Don’t forget the essentials: SPF to protect your skin and a trusty lip balm to keep your lips hydrated and supple.

So, as you navigate the world of fashion and beauty this summer, prioritize embracing your natural self and wearing what truly makes you feel confident. Trends may come and go, but your personal style and comfort should always take precedence. And don’t forget to take care of your skin and lips, ensuring they stay protected and healthy under the summer sun.

Velena Nikolova
Velena NikolovaCo-Founder and Creative DirectorVelena co-founded Velena Lifestyle and leads its creative work. A lifestyle creator featured in Women's Health, she writes about fashion, beauty and her life as a creator. Velena and Dragos both guest lecture at the University of Greenwich on social media and content strategy, and are invited back several times a year.