6 Wardrobe Essentials to Elevate Your Summer Style
Summer is in full swing. Muted tones are out. Loud and graphic are in. It’s the full-blown return of the preppy aesthetic (thanks Miu Miu). And if you haven’t gotten the memo by now, we’re still doing Gossip Girl-style micro skirts. XOXO.
According to Activewear Leggings, this year’s summer trends are a rehash of last year; a revival of the early 2000s. Did someone say basic?
If the thought of looking like a Sporty Spice wannabe (pun intended) bores you into throwing your platform sneakers against the wall, it could be a sign that you’re ready to turn over a new fashion leaf.
Catwalk trends aside, all you need for a seasonal wardrobe refresh are a few essential items. Think of them as elevated essential clothing for women to get you looking cool for the summer. Let’s share some tried and true additions for your summer collection.
#1 Classic White Dress
Say yes to the (white) dress! British Vogue included the white dress as one of the top Spring/Summer 2024 buys. White will forever be the color of summer. Fueled by the quiet luxury trend, white epitomizes classic minimalism.
Harking back to the elegance of 90s New York, the late Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy was a fan of the understated white linen midi dress.
But if you prefer not to take yourself too seriously, think of boho-inspired designs and flowy chiffons lightly grazing the ankles. Add fun accessories like brightly painted nails or quirky earrings to contrast the stark white.
#2 Rib Tank
No matter the season, rib tanks are a fashion staple. The coolness of the cotton fabric makes it a comfy option for hot summer days. Even more flattering is the fitted silhouette.
While you may be tempted to go for vibrant tones, why not opt for soft pastels like baby blue or lilac?
The versatile rib tank can be dressed up with leather pants and heels for a night out or casual with jeans for a weekend vibe, suggests Project Social T.
#3 Oversized Shirt
Who What Wear’s Maxine Eggenberger says the slouchy shirt is one item she cannot do without in her summer wardrobe.
Her advice is to purchase one or more in any color you like because chances are you’ll be rocking it the whole summer.
Wear it with jeans, or shorts or tied as a cropped top over a dress. When shopping for an oversized shirt, choose a linen or cotton blend for a lightweight feel that doesn’t stick to the skin.
#4 Retro Sneakers
We’ll fight anyone who says the era of the retro sneaker is dead. Old-school sneakers are everywhere right now and they aren’t going away anytime soon.
Kylie Jenner is a fan of wearing her favorite Adidas Samba sneakers paired with a simple summer dress.
High tops are still the go-to staple for the sneaker-shorts combo. And yes, white remains the sneaker color of choice.
When testing options, New York Magazine fashion columnist Ambar Pardilla rated the Nike Air Force 1’07 as the overall best white sneaker. The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star was crowned the best white low-top sneaker.
#5 Woven Tote Bag
The rattan tote is everywhere this summer. Celebrities spotted with the casual summer must-have are Jennifer Lawrence and Jessica Alba.
Many online stores like EveryMarket have a curated selection of woven tote bags. And unlike designer handbags, you won’t have to break your bank account to acquire one. Think knotted designs or rustic leathers reminiscent of 60s fashion.
Apparently, Jane Birkin switched to a wicker tote if she wasn’t carrying her eponymous Hermès bag. InStyle goes as far as stating she was instrumental in making it a fashion essential. Hamptons, here we come!
The publication mentions the straw tote being the sea shell of fashion accessories. With their intricate patterns and textures, they’re evocative of summer.
#6 Cowboy Hat
As Beyonce said, “This ain’t Texas,” but now you don’t need an excuse to wear a cowboy hat or boots.
Queen Bey came with only patriotic vibes and her signature cowboy hat when introducing Team USA at the Paris Olympics via video link.
Since the release of Cowboy Carter, the R&B pop artist brought the accessory back from obscurity, and now everyone’s wearing it. From Gigi Hadid to Olivia Rodrigo, the stars are pulling up in their Western-inspired outfits.
Now that you’ve got your list of summer elevated essentials, don’t forget no closet is complete without confidence. So, go out there and drop it like it’s hot. Oh, and don’t forget your sunscreen!
