When it comes to summer dressing, I’m all about easy outfit formulas that require little effort but look effortlessly polished and put together. Most importantly my ensembles need to keep me cool in the sweltering heat. The simplest way to make getting dressed easier in summer is to have an arsenal of chic, trend-forward basics that you can mix and match effortlessly or style easily with other statement pieces.
Luckily, you don’t have to spend a fortune to upgrade your staples this summer. Below, I’ve scoured our favorite retailers for the most stylish essentials that I guarantee you’ll reach for on repeat this warm-weather season. From tank tops to linen shorts and little white dresses, below I’m sharing my absolute favorite summer basics that feel fresh, keep you cool, and make assembling outfits so much easier. The cherry on top? They all clock in at under $50, though you’d never know it.
A perennial summer essential and a fashion-girl favorite, a white or black tank top will ground practically all your summer looks—easy to wear alone or layer with a button-down, cardi, or blazer.
From crisp white to breathable linen—breezy, oversize button-downs are easy to style with practically everything in your summer wardrobe from shorts to skirts and everything in between.
Whether it’s a silky black slip skirt or a linen maxi skirt, a minimalist silhouette will be easy to pair with just about any top (and shoe style) in your closet.
High-waisted linen shorts always look so effortlessly elegant. Stick to a versatile palette of whites and taupes then just add a tank, button-down, slides, and gold hoops and you’re good to go.
A little white dress is a summer essential that will never let you down—effortless, breezy, and zero effort required.
On the same note, black dresses are also a perfect choice for day-to-night summer dressing. Easy to dress up or down with sandals and chic jewelry.
Whether you opt for a loose style or a baby tee, the staple is as versatile and cool as it gets.
A forever summertime favorite, denim shorts serve as the perfect practical and casual basic to pair with other statement pieces.
Loose and relaxed trousers add an understated luxe touch to your summer outfit. Pair with a white tank and belt to pull the look together.
Easy-to-wear slides will look chic with any summer ensemble. Choose a tan, white or black hue for utmost versatility.
Large straw bags are the perfect finishing touch to your warm-weather outfits—they exude an effortless French-girl vibe and are perfect for toting around all your summer essentials.
Talk about easy summer dressing. A matching set is impeccably chic and the best part—it will literally take you only two minutes to get ready.
