"Year after year, it surprises me how reluctant I am to jump into summer fashion, and after getting a quick pulse check from my Google of choice, TikTok, it’s clear that I’m not alone. Whether you don’t like showing too much skin or just can’t quite figure out how to make the perfect outfit without your trusty layers, let’s face it: Summer style is hard.
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As a personal stylist in New York City, I spend countless hours perusing sites and shops hoping to nail down the perfect piece for a client. After a while, you start to build up a sort of internal catalog—which brand has what and which pieces I’m seeing repeated over and over. It becomes a lot easier to spot a trend when you become immersed in the market. While it can be especially easy to get carried away with summer trends, my advice is always to focus on the items that you can still see yourself wearing for at least another season or two. You’ll thank yourself next spring when you get ready to perform your seasonal closet swap and are met with an intentionally curated selection rather than a heavy, trend-forward medley.
When I’m working with clients (or even styling myself), I recommend that absolutely everyone owns these 10 summer wardrobe staples.
1. A Graphic Tank
An underrated one, if you ask me. At this point, we’ve all seen the Loewe embroidered tank, and while I do agree that it’s a great summer staple, I can’t really bring myself to spend that kind of money on a cotton tank. So, last year, I made it my personal mission to find a similar option—and boy, did I outdo myself. I purchased the Reformation Erina Knit Tank and wore it with quite literally everything during the warm months. With tops being a particularly challenging category as of late, I was thrilled to find an affordable summer top option that is as statement-worthy as it is comfortable.
2. Bermuda Shorts
As controversial as this style has become, bermuda shorts aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. Even better: I’m finding an increasing amount of bermuda short options as the temps continue to rise. I recently purchased the Mid-Length Denim Short from J.Crew, and I’ve been totally obsessed. And it’s safe to say that the girlies agree (no, seriously, I got stopped on the street multiple times this week to accept compliments). My favorite way to wear them? With a form-fitted top, knee-high boots, and a statement belt. You’re welcome.
3. A Colorful Crocheted Bag
We’ve already established that summer fashion can often feel less than exciting, but that’s where accessories come in. A crocheted bag for summer is nothing revolutionary, but what does pique my interest this season is the introduction of added elements like bold colors and beaded appliques. While I haven’t really been one to sport a woven bag in the past, this season’s assortment feels fresh and exciting. In fact, I have more than one option I’m considering purchasing this season. Namely, The Crocheted Shoulder Bag from Madewell. I can picture it now: The bag in red paired with a white cotton maxi dress and a shell pendant necklace. What could possibly scream ‘summer’ more?
4. Easy Maxi Dress
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few staple dresses that I consistently reach for in the warmer months. A dress is an easy, one-and-done outfit that does most of the styling work for you—all that’s left is the accessories. At this point, I’ve worn the Leopard Printed Chiffon Maxi Dress from Ganni so many times that even my doorman is asking questions. I can’t help it though. Some days, I’d so much rather throw on a dress in these sweltering temps than fool with trying to perfect layers and separates.
5. Wrap Sandals
Now, I know what you’re thinking: Haven’t we done this before? (Cue nightmare-worthy flashbacks of me wearing knee-high, lace-up, gladiator sandals in my early 20s.) But in reality, designers have reimagined the wrap sandal in desirably modern shapes for the summer. There are a lot of bold clothing concepts trending this season, which is why we’re seeing more minimalistic ’90s-inspired shoe designs, like the wrap sandal, take center stage.
I’m loving the simplicity of the understated footbed, recentering our attention on other design elements like the leather-wrapped ankle. In seasons past, we would have sported the leather strap further up the leg, but what sets this sandal apart for the season is creating a strong focal point around the ankle.
6. Statement Shells
What the sunny season lacks in attire, it more than makes up for in accessories. We may not be able to wear a lot of layers when it comes to clothing, but layering jewelry feels like a given in this game of Monopoly we call summer fashion. It seems that all of my preferred jewelry brands have taken to a nautical theme, as you’d be stumped not to find a beachy shell or two at your favorite retailer. Take advantage of seasonal accessories and layer on some statement-making shells.
7. Drawstring Linen Pants
You can’t spell summer without linen. A relaxed linen pant is a must when it comes to warmer weather. I prefer a drawstring style as it reads a bit more casual and effortless but still garners the ability to look more polished when you want it to. When it comes to traveling, they’re the first to go in my suitcase. This breezy style can be outfitted for any occasion: a day on the beach, dinner with friends, or bopping about town.
8. An A-Line Skirt
I’m sure you’ve seen the bubble skirt in droves on your For You Page lately, and while I do love the trend, it’s exactly that: a trend. Yes, I pride myself on knowing the latest trends and, well, being trendy (there’s a difference!), but I’m cautiously advising you to do what feels right. If you genuinely love the bubble skirt and think you’ll love it for longer than a season, then go for it. If you’re looking for more of a timeless addition, try a traditional a-line option like the Delphine Nap Skirt from Hill House. I bought a beige, elastic-waist, A-line skirt at a designer liquidation sale years ago, and it’s the skirt that I keep coming back to season after season. Add a simple tank and a lace-up sandal, and you’ve unlocked the ultimate cool-girl style.
9. A Striped Top
Another ode to the nautical theme: stripes. A stripe may feel a bit overdone, but I promise you, designers are still keeping this categorically summer print anew. What I love most about a stripe is its ability to take simple fabrications up a notch. Even if you’re sporting a classic silhouette, a stripe just feels next level.
10. Pleated Denim Shorts
A less popular trend, but one that we’ll see more of in the coming weeks, is a pleated pair of denim shorts. In a climate where denim cut-offs are consistently debated, these feel like a great alternative. They read more style-forward, especially when worn with ballet flats and loads of statement jewelry. Invest in a pair of pleated denim shorts, and you’ll be reaching for them for years to come.
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.