7 Summer Fashion Staples You Need for Your Wardrobe
By: Tajiya Holland
Fashion trends promote community and social changes while inspiring designers and stylists to create new, meaningful work. Although exploring fashion trends is amusing, they come and go, while timeless clothing items never go out of style.
Using classic pieces as wardrobe foundations can help you save money by investing in clothes that last for years. The first step to building a solid summer wardrobe is selecting staple pieces and fabrics for optimal comfort and coolness.
Best Fabrics to Wear During Summer
Wearing the right fabrics during summer is crucial for maintaining comfort in hot weather. Lightweight and breathable fabrics, such as linen and cotton, allow air to circulate and help regulate body temperature. A few recommended fabrics include:
- Cotton
- Linen
- Bamboo
- Jersey
- Silk
Summer Fashion Essentials
When it comes to selecting your wardrobe staples, it’s important to consider a few key factors. Here are four essential considerations to keep in mind as you embark on your shopping journey:
- Versatility: Look for items that can be easily mixed and matched to create multiple outfits, maximizing the potential of each piece in your wardrobe.
- Timeless Style: Choose classic and timeless designs that won’t go out of fashion quickly, allowing you to wear them for multiple summers to come.
- Quality and Durability: Invest in well-made garments that will withstand regular wear and washing, ensuring longevity and reducing the need for frequent replacements.
With these considerations in mind, you’ll be well on your way to curating a versatile summer wardrobe that reflects your personal style.
Sundresses
A sundress is an efficient summer outfit that’s easy to throw on that can work for both casual and formal events. Opt for a classic silhouette to walk a vineyard or enjoy a picnic. Or, step out in an empire line dress for a regal effect.



Button-Ups
Button-up tops provide an effortless charm with their tailored yet relaxed silhouette. They suit any occasion, from in the office to poolside. Pair a classic white button-up with a colorful mini-skirt or layered over a bathing suit or a neutral-colored maxi dress.



White Jeans
The summer season calls for a white pair of jeans no matter the style. From straight to wide-leg and cuffed to raw-edged, there are limitless styling options with white jeans. Pair them with an airy blouse and sandals, a padded muscle tank and flip-flops, or a blazer and heels.



Everyday Raffia Bag
Commonly known as straw bags, raffia bags are palm leaves woven together that make for the perfect summer accessory. Their durability, island aesthetic, and functionality are beloved as beach bags, but they can also be used as a work tote, market bag, or everyday carry-all!



High Neckline Tank-Tops
Tank tops are necessary for beating the summer heat! High necklines add cooling coverage from the sun and elevate any look. Transform your look from casual to dressed-up by pairing a pleated tank with jeans and heels. Achieve a monochromatic and luxurious look by combining a white tank with a linen maxi skirt. For a laid-back feel, opt for a high-neck tank with an open back.



Linen Pants
Once you experience the comfort of linen pants, they’ll become a go-to choice in your wardrobe. For a morning stroll along the cliffside, opt for a drawstring pair to ensure ultimate comfort. Achieve a business casual look by pairing belted linen pants with a striped button-down and sneakers. Or, elevate your style with linen pants, a crop top, a blazer, and heeled sandals.



Crochet Dresses
Crochet dresses come in various styles, each suitable for different times of the summer days. Open-weave dresses are perfect beach coverups, while tightly crocheted dresses are great options for exploring a new city. For an evening dinner, a combination of the two styles can be achieved with a crochet dress paired with heels and a blazer.



How to Incorporate Fashion Staples Into Summer Trendy Outfits
While classic fashion essentials can create stunning summer outfits on their own, it’s fun to switch up your style and incorporate trendy elements from time to time. By taking a classic garment or accessory and pairing it with key items that reflect a specific aesthetic, you can seamlessly blend the two together.
Quiet Luxury
Quiet Luxury embraces simplicity, a neutral color palette, and understated elegance without appearing ostentatious. Achieve a business casual look with white jeans, a tank, and a tan blazer. For a chic and luxurious vibe, pair a white button-up with a raffia bag.
Photos: Anouk Yve, Emma Hothersall, Léa


Coastal Cowgirl
Coastal Cowgirl style combines lightweight and flowing fabrics with cowboy boots or hats for a breezy and Western-inspired look. Opt for linen pants or a crochet dress when heading to the beach, and make sure to pack your trusty cowboy hat. Complete any sundress ensemble with a stylish pair of cowboy boots.
Photos: McCall Gilbert, Delisi Co, House of CB
Mermaidcore
Mermaidcore embraces the allure of the sea with ruffles, crochet, and shimmering embellishments. Embody the style with a ruffled sundress or a two-piece set, paired with a raffia bag for a day outdoors. For a touch of sparkle, opt for a shimmering crochet dress, a must-have for an on-trend and captivating look.
Photos: Sandra Duran, Annastasia Dominic, Beatrice Milio


Barbiecore
Barbiecore is all about incorporating shades of pink into your outfit. Embrace the style with a fuchsia sundress or accessorize with a hot pink raffia purse. For a playful twist on a classic piece, opt for a button-up shirt featuring light pink and blue stripes, adding a playful touch to your outfit.
Photos: Chiara King, Shush London, Danielle Spencer
Fashion Essentials for the Summer Season
Whether you’re figuring out what to pack for a vacation or wear daily, there are endless styling options with these fashion essentials for the summer season. You may already have these items in your closet. Play around with them and see what you feel the most confident in!