Summer’s blazing heat calls for a wardrobe refresh, and as someone who scrolls through fashion sites all day (tough job, I know), I’ve got the inside scoop on what’s worth your money. After weeks of virtual window shopping and trying on more clothes than I care to admit, I’ve narrowed down my must-haves for the season. Here are the 20 summer styles that have earned a spot in my shopping cart!
1. Breezy Linen Shorts
Gone are the days when I’d squeeze into denim cutoffs that ride up in all the wrong places! Linen shorts have changed my summer game completely.
They’re breathable, won’t stick to sweaty legs, and look effortlessly chic with everything. Plus, the elastic waistband is my secret weapon against post-lunch bloat.
2. Oversized Button-Up Shirt
Though some might call it basic, my oversized button-up is anything but! Worn open over swimwear or tied at the waist with shorts, it transforms from beach cover-up to dinner outfit in seconds.
The versatility alone justifies buying it in three colors. My favorite? A crisp white that makes my tan pop.
3. Platform Sandals
Where have platform sandals been all my life? Unlike those flimsy flip-flops that leave my arches crying by noon, these babies provide actual support.
The extra height elongates my legs without the torture of heels. Whenever I wear them, strangers stop me to ask where I got them – the ultimate shopping editor validation!
4. Ribbed Tank Dress
If laziness and style had a baby, it would be the ribbed tank dress. Simply slip it on, add sunglasses, and voilà – instant outfit that works for grocery runs or rooftop cocktails.
The ribbed fabric hugs in the right places while disguising what needs disguising. My secret? I bought one in black and haven’t washed it in weeks.
5. Statement Sunglasses
Whoever said sunglasses are just for sun protection clearly never experienced the power of a statement pair! My colorful frames instantly elevate even the most basic outfits.
Honestly, half the time I wear them to hide my tired eyes after late-night scrolling through – you guessed it – more shopping sites. They’re my favorite accessory splurge.
6. Wide-Leg Trousers
Whoever invented skinny jeans clearly never experienced summer thigh chafing! My wide-leg trousers have been absolute lifesavers during heatwaves.
Airy and dramatic, they create the illusion that I’m floating rather than walking. When the office AC hits arctic levels, they’re substantial enough to keep me from freezing while still looking seasonally appropriate.
7. Raffia Tote Bag
While everyone else parades their designer bags, I’ve fallen hard for my humble raffia tote. It somehow manages to hold my laptop, water bottle, emergency snacks, and the random purchases I accumulate throughout the day.
Sand-proof and surprisingly sturdy, it transitions from beach to brunch without missing a beat. The compliments are just a bonus!
8. Retro-Inspired One-Piece Swimsuit
After years of bikini anxiety, I’ve embraced the one-piece renaissance with open arms! The high-cut leg elongates while the structured top actually supports what needs supporting.
Unlike those Instagram-bait suits that require professional assistance to put on, mine lets me actually swim and eat a sandwich without strategic readjustments. Revolutionary, I know!
9. Linen Blend Blazer
Hear me out: summer blazers aren’t an oxymoron! My linen blend version is the secret weapon for looking put-together when it’s sweltering outside.
Unstructured and lightweight, it transforms sundresses into office-appropriate attire in seconds. When evening temperatures drop, I’m not the one shivering while everyone else scrambles for cover – I’m prepared!
10. Printed Midi Skirt
My printed midi skirt has saved me from countless “I have nothing to wear” meltdowns! With its elastic waist (bless) and swishy silhouette, it’s practically begging to be twirled in.
Paired with a simple tank, it creates the illusion that I put in effort when really I just threw two things together. The bold pattern also hides ice cream drips – speaking from experience.
11. Minimalist Gold Jewelry
Despite my maximalist tendencies, I’ve surrendered to the power of dainty gold jewelry. These subtle pieces somehow make even my rattiest t-shirt look intentional and pulled-together.
Unlike statement pieces that I tire of quickly, these minimal designs work with everything. The best part? They don’t turn my skin green when I inevitably forget to take them off before swimming!
12. Oversized Straw Hat
After a dermatologist scolded me about sun damage, my oversized straw hat has become my constant companion. Beyond the obvious skin protection benefits, it adds drama to even the simplest outfits.
While I initially worried about looking like I was trying too hard, now I embrace the slightly ridiculous circumference. My friends can spot me a mile away at crowded beaches!
13. Cotton Poplin Dress
Forget those clingy polyester nightmares! My cotton poplin dress feels like wearing nothing while looking like I made an effort.
With a slightly structured shape that doesn’t require constant adjusting, it’s my go-to for days when the humidity makes everything else unwearable. The pockets (yes, pockets!) hold my phone, lip balm, and emergency hair tie.
14. Espadrille Wedges
Unlike those torturous stilettos gathering dust in my closet, espadrille wedges offer height without hobbling me by happy hour. The woven details scream “summer” without trying too hard.
They’ve survived garden parties on grass, cobblestone streets, and that one regrettable karaoke night. If shoes could talk, these would have stories to tell!
15. Oversized Linen Pants
When temperatures soar, my oversized linen pants become my second skin. Their breezy flow creates a personal air conditioning system with every step.
While they wrinkle within minutes of wearing them, I’ve decided that’s part of their charm – like I’m too busy living my fabulous life to worry about ironing. The drawstring waist accommodates all my summer indulgences.
16. Crochet Beach Cover-Up
My crochet cover-up has single-handedly elevated my beach aesthetic from “just rolled out of bed” to “curated Instagram post.” The semi-sheer knit offers just enough coverage without trapping heat.
While technically designed for the beach, I’ve brazenly worn it as a top with high-waisted shorts for evening drinks. Fashion rules are meant to be broken, especially in summer!
17. Colorful Canvas Sneakers
Despite owning far too many shoes already, my colorful canvas sneakers earned their spot in my summer rotation. Unlike pristine white kicks that show every speck of dirt, these hide the evidence of my adventures.
Their punchy hue instantly brightens neutral outfits, and the lightweight construction means no sweaty feet. They’re my solution to the eternal summer footwear dilemma.
18. Slip Dress
My silk-blend slip dress is the chameleon of my summer wardrobe. By day, it’s casual with flat sandals and a denim jacket; by night, it transforms with statement earrings and my trusty wedges.
The bias cut skims rather than clings, making it ideal for humid evenings. When packed for vacation, it emerges miraculously unwrinkled – a true wardrobe hero!
19. High-Waisted Swim Bottoms
After years of tugging at too-small bikini bottoms, I’ve embraced the high-waisted revolution! These retro-inspired gems provide coverage where I want it while still looking fashionable.
The best part? I can actually move, swim, and eat lunch without constantly readjusting. Who knew swimwear could be both cute AND functional? Not my 20-year-old self, that’s for sure!
20. Lightweight Cotton Jumpsuit
My cotton jumpsuit has revolutionized my getting-ready routine! One piece, instant outfit – it’s practically cheating at fashion.
While bathroom breaks require some gymnastics (let’s be honest), the convenience outweighs the inconvenience. With pockets deep enough for my phone and keys, it’s become my go-to for farmers’ markets, brunches, and everything in between.
21. Gradient Lens Sunglasses
Beyond their obvious sun-blocking benefits, my gradient lens sunglasses add instant cool-factor to my most basic outfits. The fade from dark to light means I can actually see my phone screen without removing them.
Honestly, half the time I wear them indoors just to avoid eye contact with overly enthusiastic salespeople. They’re part accessory, part social shield – completely essential!