Affordable Summer Haul! 9 Under-$40 Items We’re Losing It Over

Summer is basically here, and as your trusty Who What Wear editors, we’d never miss an opportunity to bring you some style inspiration for the season ahead. We’re back this month with our try-on series to showcase our styling capabilities and the newest pieces from our namesake clothing line. If you’re familiar with this series of editor outfits, then just keep scrolling to fill up on outfit inspiration and affordable shopping picks. But if you happen to be new here, then let me fill you in. 

We drop new pieces for our Who What Wear line at the top of each month, and today’s roundup highlights the warm weather–ready frocks, summer tops, and fresh lounge looks from the June collection. Even though nothing rings up for more than $40 in this edit, the looks our editors put together with these new summer basics are making the affordable buys look far pricier. Ahead, see how we each wear our picks and then shop our favorites if you’re so inspired.

“I live for an off-the-shoulder moment, so when I spotted this WWWC top, I knew I had to have it. While it’s a bit tighter than I would have expected around the shoulders (I have wider shoulders from boxing), overall, I am obsessed with this top. From the fun puff sleeves to how lightweight the fabric is, it’s the perfect top to pair with a skirt, jeans, and just about anything in between for the summer.”

“This dress is so lovely and breezy—perfect for a warm June day. While I love the house-dress vibes, I’m spending lots of time out of the house these days (finally), so I paired it with street-worthy accessories: baroque pearl earrings and Birkenstocks. I recommend sizing down for a perfect slightly oversize fit.”

“How many summer dresses do I need? Apparently, not enough. It’s so easy to throw this on with some heeled sandals to create an elevated look.”

“I think everyone can agree that a white blouse is necessary for the summertime. I paired mine with structured trousers, but you could go with a skirt, be it mini or maxi. Either way, it’s the perfect addition to your summer wardrobe.”

“I’m normally hesitant to even try on jumpsuits because of my 5’3″ frame. They’re always too long, make me look stumpy, and/or makes it seem like I’m wearing clown pants. In short, I always feel like a poser and little kid when I try on most jumpsuits. Not this one! It’s the perfect length and is super flattering at the waist. It actually looks like I have super-long legs (or at least long for me) when I wear it! I think this one can be dressed up or down, so you can wear it to brunch with friends or date night, depending on how you accessorize. It’s a winner for me!”

Airy, tiered, and flowy, this is my ideal frock to throw on for hot summer days. The simple silhouette makes for the perfect base for some fun accessories, and I particularly love the one-shoulder neckline that feels so fresh for right now. I styled it here for a more casual daytime vibe with comfy slide sandals, but it could easily be dressed up with some heels for dinner. Truly a day-to-night closet staple, if you ask me.

“This orange dress screams summer. I just need someone serving me margaritas poolside, and the look would be complete. Other than the fun color, I love the one-shoulder design and the cute bow on the right side.”

“This stripe linen dress is perfect for casual summer days. It’s effortless and comfortable. Plus, I love the open back with its statement buckle—it adds the perfect fashion-forward touch.”

“This lightweight poplin dress is just what I needed for summer. The ruffle makes me feel on-trend while the color and silhouette allow for many different styling techniques.”

“My shorts collection was truly lacking before I met this sweet pair. I love the mix of Swiss dot and lace, they have pockets, and they’re lined, which helps keep everything invisible underneath. All in all, a real win.”

Up next, these are the only summer shoe trends a professional shopper thinks are worth it.