Maybe it’s just me, but every year the moment summer hits my tolerance for fussy fashion plummets. I love a chic-but-impractical trend as much as the next fashion person, but there’s something about the leisurely summer months and warm temps that tanks my threshold for complicated pieces. Blame the pandemic and two years of comfort dressing, but this year it’s hitting especially hard. As much as I love the current trends like cutouts and platforms, there’s just no part of me that wants to wear them at the moment.
Instead, I’m gravitating toward low-maintenance luxuries like flowy dresses, linen fabrics, and slide sandals. Don’t get me wrong—I still want to look chic and polished, but I’m aiming for pieces I can throw on and not need to think about for the rest of the day. Anything too short, tight, or that needs constant adjusting to ensure nothing is popping out or riding up is going to be a no from me right now.
With this in mind, I’ve focused on six brands that encapsulate my effortless summer vibe with chic, easy pieces that prioritize both comfort and style. Keep reading to see and shop the best brands for easy summer fashion (in my personal opinion).
On Julie: Faithfull the Brand Marloe Maxi Dress ($229). If you’re looking for breezy summer dresses, chic linen sets, and luxe beach styles, look no further than Faithfull the Brand. Founded and sustainably produced in Bali, a sense of summer and the spirit of travel is in the brand’s DNA—which is why you can always count on them for seasonal essentials. Its fabrics are breathable and luxe, while the silhouettes always make you feel confident yet comfortable. I’m partial to its dresses but have also been loving its swim selection this year.
On Stephanie: Anine Bing Colette Bag ($499). Anine Bing is the epitome of effortlessly chic. Founded in 2012, it’s become a staple in the closet of fashion girls thanks to its timeless essentials, luxurious fabrics, and attention to detail. I always look to them for chic summer sandals and basics with a modern twist. I just bought the below Lizzie Slides and they’re like clouds for your feet.
On Sylvie: Mango Cut-Out Ruched Dress ($50). Nobody does great quality at affordable price points better than Mango. It also nails the seasonal trends every year with a breezy Mediterranean twist, making it a summer shopping mecca. From easy dresses to chic separates to fun accessories, you can basically create your entire summer wardrobe in one swoop.
On Felicia: Dissh Banks Linen Vest ($75), Norah Linen Pants ($94). Consider Australian brand Dishh your one-stop shop for all things summer. Its sustainable linen fabric is one of the softest I’ve ever felt, and the brand offers just about every linen style you could ever want. I can’t recommend its linen pants more—truly 10/10.
On Ali: Reformation Sigmund Dress ($248). I probably don’t have to explain why Ref is on my list at this point—its dresses are as synonymous with summer as ice cream by now. Sustainably made and effortlessly chic, I can always count on Reformation to nail an easy summer look. The brand is also a goldmine for summer wedding guest options.
On AnneLaure: Réalisation Allegra Dress ($245). There’s a reason celebrities and fashion girls around the world love Réalisation—its pieces are as luxurious as they are wearable (and not to mention stunning). Its dresses are made from 100% silk so they fall beautifully on the body and are so soft you forget you’re wearing anything at all. I’ve yet to meet a Réalisation piece I don’t love.
