Tariffs Push Summer Prices Even Higher
As summer kicks off, many Americans are tightening their wallets—not because of inflation alone, but due to a new wave of tariffs enacted by President Donald Trump. A blanket 10% import tax and the threat of even higher duties have driven up prices on everything from clothing to cars. The added costs are pushing everyday purchases out of reach for many consumers.
“The tariffs are making high prices even more unreasonably high,” said Raina Becker, a 49-year-old freelancer in upstate New York. “I was hoping to invest in a new summer wardrobe … and I can’t in good faith do it.”
Apparel Industry Among the Hardest Hit
Because most U.S. clothing, shoes, and accessories are imported from countries like China, Vietnam, and India, the fashion sector has taken a major hit. Consumers are feeling the squeeze directly.
Mei Wu, a 31-year-old content creator in Los Angeles, skipped a dress she planned to wear for her birthday after learning tariffs would tack on an extra $277.95. “We work hard for what we bring to the door,” she said. “How we spend our money is totally up to us.”
Shoppers Cut Back While Still Making Room for Travel
A recent KPMG report found that 50% of consumers are cutting back on purchases in response to tariffs, while 49% are actively hunting for deals. Travel remains a priority for many, but spending in other areas is being scaled back.
“We’re seeing a more selective and cost-conscious summer travel season,” said Duleep Rodrigo, consumer and retail leader at KPMG. “Vacations are still in the budget — but nearly everything else is on the chopping block.”
Legal Challenges and Price Workarounds
Trump’s tariff policies are facing ongoing legal scrutiny, with some judges calling them unlawful. A federal appeals court recently paused lower court rulings that had temporarily blocked some of the tariffs.
In the meantime, shoppers like Patrice LaBelle Lester are finding creative ways to manage. Planning a vow renewal celebration, Lester avoided paying a nearly $1,400 tariff surcharge on faux flowers by working with a vendor willing to cover the cost. Still, she was warned the flowers would arrive late due to slower cargo shipping.
Everyday Purchases Now Feel Political
Lester, who lives in San Antonio, also has her eye on a new car, but Trump’s tax break for American-made vehicles gives her pause. “It’s hard to support that in this political climate,” she said. “It’s impacting me because that is a purchase I would like to make in the next few months.”
Finding Community in Cutbacks
For some, reduced spending has led to unexpected positives. Becker, the freelance editor, has turned to DIY projects and crafting. “The silver lining in all this is that it can, if done correctly, build community,” she said.
While summer fun may look different this year, many Americans are adapting—balancing rising costs with new values, creative budgeting, and a hope for more stability ahead.
