"Much to my dismay, I’m beginning to feel the closing remarks of summer. I know this because after doing some quick math the other day–trying to determine when I could squeeze in the next beach trip–it dawned on me that I could roughly count on one hand how many weekends are left to sport a spaghetti strap. But despite a seasonal shift in mentality that’s bound to happen in August, we still have some of the hottest days of the year ahead, and I’ve mastered a rotation of affordable items that will carry my wardrobe through the first days of fall.
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Dressing for summer is unexpectedly difficult; it’s recently been my mission to bring my Pinterest outfit inspiration to life, but it’s taken a lot of trial and error to get it right. Not to make it all about me, but I seriously deserve a pat on the back: With a few last-minute wardrobe additions, I’ve successfully brought my summer style vision to life—and there’s still time for you to do the same.
Let’s face it: internally, you’re dreaming of fall; externally, you’re still dealing with dangerously hot temps. (And by dangerous I mean, have you seen the dry-cleaning prices lately? I actually can’t afford to sweat anymore.) If you’re finding your warm-weather wardrobe is still lacking, but don’t want to invest too heavily with cool temps just around the corner, these five budget-friendly items have been carrying my wardrobe this summer—and they can do the same for you.
1. A New Day’s Bubble Mini Skirt
One of the more controversial trends of the summer is the bubble skirt. You’ve probably seen the piece all over your social feeds this summer, and have more than likely already formed your opinions on the matter. I, for one, have chosen to quite literally live in a bubble and ignore the pushback.
In my opinion, the bubble trend gets a bad rap and is rarely given a fair chance. In theory, I will admit, the concept seemed a bit outlandish at first. In order to put my skeptics to rest, I did something rather daring: I tried it on. I can assure you my bottom-half has never looked better. Designers have figured out a way to bring dramatic volume to an otherwise simple silhouette, which is something that pays off in spades while styling. Before you judge, I’m begging you to try a bubble hem out yourself. The best part? You can score this one for under $30.
2. COS’ Striped 24/7 T-Shirt
Stripes for summer? Groundbreaking. I’ve always loved a summer stripe, but lately have been craving the pattern in a modernized silhouette. And while a tee is no modern rendition of stripes, this boxier, relaxed style from COS is just the ticket I’ve been searching for. The shape provides a bit more structure than your standard crewneck tee, so it looks extra chic tucked into a mini skirt or an elastic waist bottom.
What really sold me here were the subtle design details like the contrasting neckline and wider-width horizontal pattern. I often find that these attributes give way for a more statement-worthy, fashion-forward look–especially when paired with brighter pops of color or fun accessories. These sort of characteristics provide a different avenue for a stripe, rather than its usual preppy outlet. Think: little Jenny Humphry meets Ralph Lauren.
3. Everlane’s Linen Easy Shorts
In all of my hoopla over striped boxer shorts this season, I had forgotten about the power of a pair of simple linen shorts. While I normally gravitate toward trendier, colorful items, I’ve found myself reaching for this easy, elastic-waist short more often than not. There’s something about them that feels so effortlessly chic, especially when paired with an airy, lightweight tank and a beaded necklace stack.
If you ask me, replacing your denim cut-offs with a mini skirt or a pair of elastic-waist shorts is the easiest way to elevate your summer style. Did we mention you’ll stay cooler and more comfortable? We’ll count that as a win.
4. Free People’s Because of You Drawstring Tank
The thing I love about creating a style vision board at the beginning of each season is that I’m pushed to pieces that are a bit more out of my comfort zone. (Yes, even fashion gurus have their limits.) I’m not really one to pull more frilly pieces, but like I mentioned, I was determined to nail my summer style vision this year. Part of that vision read as effortless and coastal-inspired, so naturally, I found a top that encompassed the two.
While you’re probably no stranger to the season’s more feminine and romantic designs, the prices have seemed a bit steep for rather simple pieces. I knew that I wanted to buy into this look, but at what cost? That’s when I found this billowy tank from Free People and everything changed. I can attest that lower prices don’t always have to equal lower expectations. With the adjustable drawstring, this top does everything I need and more.
5. Banana Republic’s Linen Drapey Midi Dress
I’d surmise that my summer dresses are currently seeing endlessly more wear than most of my other pieces. Because of that, I usually opt for a more neutral option when it comes to dresses. Don’t get me wrong: My wardrobe knows no shortage of sequins and leopard print, but when you have a bold print or color in an all-over silhouette, it can be harder to find styling versatility. When you have dress in a neutral color, like white, you can easily swap things like accessories and even style dress codes.
With that being said, you’ll frequently find me in a lightweight dress in warm weather. There’s just no way that I’m not volunteering myself for an effortlessly polished one-and-done outfit. In fact, this is the one category that doesn’t bring me heartache at the beginning of every new sunny season. More of that please!
Tinsley Crisp, Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer
Tinsley Crisp is a New York City–based stylist and writer who specializes in reporting on the season’s latest trends and hottest products. She is committed to injecting joy into the art of getting dressed and delivering attainable yet aspirational content to our readers.