My 10 Summer Wardrobe Essentials
The versatile, must-have pieces that make up my summer wardrobe, and how I style them
It’s hot, like really hot. All I can even think about wearing are simple outfits that are relaxed, lightweight, and breathable, prioritizing cotton and linen as my fabrics of choice. Reflecting on my outfits from last summer, and more recent days, most involved at least 1 (if not multiple) of the 10 items listed below. Consider these 10 essentials to serve as a condensed capsule wardrobe. They’re the versatile basics that I style with my other wardrobe staples or use to balance out my personality pieces — the mirrored mini skirt below is a prime example of a personality piece.
Continue scrolling to see which 10 items made the cut, plus outfit inspiration for ways to style during the summer.
1. White linen button up
A classic, menswear inspired staple, you simply can’t go wrong with a white linen button up. This wardrobe workhorse can be tucked in for a polished look; tied up for something more playful; or worn untucked with 1 or 2 buttons closed for a relaxed and effortless vibe.
2. Casual white linen pants
Summer is always the season of linen. Last year I wanted the perfect casual linen pant, but then waited too long to order. I didn’t want to miss out again this year, so it was my first summer purchase earlier in the season — you can read the entire post where I dive deeper into fit details, but I crowned the Reformation pair the winner in my book! I love the relaxed, but slim cut, and lack of pockets for a clean look (no pocket outlines along the front!).
3. White jeans
I also wrote an entire substack post about white denim — including the silhouettes I gravitate towards most and how I style them over various seasons. Lately, I prefer a looser, relaxed fitting white denim, think trouser inspired or loose 90’s style like the ones below. I think the looser fit lends itself to more comfort and ease, especially during the summer when a tight fitting denim could feel especially unbearable.
4. Relaxed, pull-on shorts
I reach for a relaxed pull-on short a lot more often than denim shorts. I love a lightweight knit or crochet style for the added texture, but also love the breathability of a crisp linen or cotton style. The boxer short is all the rage this year. A true boxer style, with its front waist label and button fly, doesn’t really align with my personal style. So instead, I just look for shorts with the same relaxed silhouette and elastic waistband, but without those “boxer” accents. I tend to style them with a t-shirt, linen button up, or even a matching top (as part of a set).
5. Casual t-shirts
Honestly, I should write a Substack post about the hunt for the perfect t-shirt, because it’s no easy feat. A well fitting t-shirt is the ultimate wardrobe essential because it pairs with just about everything. From casual travel day outfits to night-out looks, a simple t-shirt can take you far. Lately, depending on the outfit, I’ve been alternating between either a slightly cropped, boxy silhouette or a more fitted, waist length style.
6. Flat Sandals
Minimalist flat sandals have a permanent spot in my summer wardrobe, so over the years I’ve honed in on a few go-to styles. I style these sandals with everything from breezy trousers, to dresses, skirts, and shorts. I like a flat sandal that’s sleek, comfortable, and doesn’t draw focus away from the outfit. For a summer trip, at least 1-2 pairs of the selection below make it into my suitcase!
7. Raffia bags - totes and clutches
Raffia accessories are an easy way to add texture and interest to a summer outfit. I rounded up some raffia bags, shoes, hats, and jewelry that caught my eye in a separate post, but below are the two bags I have found myself consistently reaching for this summer.
8. Tank tops (white and black)
Like a t-shirt, a well fitting tank does wonders for a summer wardrobe. I pair these with wide leg trousers, casual linen pants, shorts, denim, and skirts. They’re also fantastic for layering under sweaters or lightweight jacket. As for what I wear underneath, these are my go-tos.
9. Lightweight knit vest
Another menswear inspired piece I’ve been loving for summer is a lightweight knit vest. It’s a great alternative to a basic tank top if you need something that is more polished. Like a button up, you can play with the styling and how buttoned-up or unbuttoned you’d like to be.
10. Easy maxi dresses
Anyone who’s in the mid-Atlantic can attest to the heat and humidity this time of year — it’s not much better than when we used to live in Houston! I love pieces I can quite literally throw-on and go, so an easy, loose fitting maxi dress is my go-to for the scorching summer days. I always pay close attention to the fabric though, including the lining, to be sure I’m choosing the most breathable options.
More easy summer dresses:
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Until next time,
Kelly
This post does contain gifted items, but with no requirement to share in this space. There are also affiliate links — that means if you shop directly from a link, I may make a small commission from it, but at no cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work through shopping the links and sharing with your friends!
This is so great Kelly! Such good pieces and beautiful styling!
Loved this edit! So many easy casual pieces