Since posting Pool & Beach Essentials the other day, I have been building a mental list of Summer wardrobe essentials. Taking stock of what I have and what I plan to wear as well as deciding if I need to make any purchases while the crazy good sales are taking place.
Summer Wardrobe Essentials
This list of essentials is intended to be modified to fit your style. While I am not intending for this to be a capsule wardrobe, it could certainly be the foundation for one. If you struggle with what to wear, most likely you are missing some of the key pieces that comprise a good basic wardrobe.
Essential Bottoms
I’ll call the section essential bottoms because depending on your climate and lifestyle, you may wear shorts or pants. Since it is so hot and humid here in FL, I typically put my denim away until Fall. So adjust as needed.
White bottoms top my list. This could mean shorts, denim, slacks, even a skirt. This is the time to survey what you have any rid your wardrobe of anything that is stained or dingy. I love my white denim from Loft as well as Chico’s so stain variety. On a day to day basis I prefer a longer short and I plan to wear my linen joggers this year.
Tailored shorts are an essential as well. They can be dressed up with a wedge or worn with a flat sandal. My favorites come from Express and JCrew. I’ve written about shorts previously, here.
Pull on shorts are everywhere this year and I love the versatility and comfort they offer, I am especially fond of those that have matching shirts, allowing the option of a monochromatic and chic look. The two set piece I purchased last year from Target is still going strong this year. It has been a go to for me!
Denim shorts and/or jeans. As much as I love white shorts, there are times when blue denim makes more sense. I’ll wear blue denim shorts over jeans to a bbq or cook out because I am a ketchup magnet.
Trousers or slacks in a neutral color round out my list of essential bottoms. The slightly wider leg version can be very comfortable if you select a good, natural fabric.
Essential Tops
Regardless of the top you prefer, pay close attention to the fabric. Cotton, poplin, linen, or a linen blend like viscose, will keep you cooler in the summer heat.
More often than not, I grab a button up. I love the way they make everything look more pulled together. You can enjoy that button up worn over a tank, as a swimsuit cover up, or alone with any of the bottoms mentioned above. Roll up the sleeves for a more casual and modern vibe.
A good white tee is the cornerstone of a good wardrobe. Whether you prefer a crew neck, v-neck, or scoop neck you can wear your white tee alone or layered. If you are going for a more polished look make sure you buy a white tee that isn’t too tight and isn’t oversized – it should fit just right.
A tank or sleeveless shell is a must have for me. This is something I wear with tailored shorts and a topper of some sort – either a blazer, button down, kimono, or lightweight cardigan. I’d call these toppers essentials as well because they pull an outfit together and add polish.
Other Essentials
A few other essentials include a dress, proper undergarments, and shoes. Individually they don’t really need a category all their own but they deserve a place.
A dress that can either be worn with a heel, sandal, or sneaker is a must have. I suggest either white or black and cotton or linen.
Nothing spoils an outfit like not having the proper undergarments. You can see my recent post on the topic here. Suffice it to say, buy nude undergarments for the most wear-ability – and nude looks different for each of us. By now you’ve probably heard that wearing white under white is no-no, go nude all the way! A strapless bra or breast tape will be necessary if you have dresses or tops with interesting straps or necklines.
Comfortable but stylish shoes complete my list as well. As much as I’d like to say one shoe can do it all, I don’t think it can. My go to’s are a pair of slides, a pair of clear block heels, and a wedge. A sneaker can work too – something simple, comfortable, and white for optimum versatility.
Final Thoughts
What do you think of my list of Summer wardrobe essentials? Would you add anything to the list? I’d love to know!
- Finally Fall Friday Favorites
- Then and Now: Scarves
- Evereve Fall Try On
- Then and Now: Jeans
- Tonal Ecru Denim Outfit Idea
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