Beauty...
By Caitlin Burnett
Summer is in full swing as we move into August, which means your summer wardrobe has come off the bench and now on permanent rotation. One scroll through your favorite retailers will present you with endless chic shopping options, so we decided to highlight the best picks to complete your summer wardrobe. Not only are these standout styles for summer ‘21, but they also have longevity and will be pieces you keep for years.
Whether you’re still on the hunt for the ultimate summer dress, chic beach bag, perfect slide sandal, or simply want to browse, the below ten items are worthy of a permanent place in your closet.
These chic ruched Reformation sandals feel infinitely more thoughtful than your average slide sandal, but equally as comfortable. They’re casual enough for a tank and shorts but elevated enough to pair with your favorite dress.
Basic items with a unique twist are always a good investment since they function as both a closet staple and fashion piece. You can’t go wrong with any of the 6 colorways, but the Olympia print is particularly eye-catching.
Oversize button-downs are having a major moment this summer, and linen is the only material you’ll want to be wearing for the next few months. The best part about the oversize button-down trend is it’s the easiest styling trick around, just throw it on over your favorite fitted top and jeans and suddenly your outfit feels elevated and thoughtful.
An oversize button-down is also extremely versatile—wear it over a bikini as a swim coverup, with a simple tank and shorts, or over your favorite fitted dress to create a balanced look. A white linen shirt is one of those pieces you’ll return to summer after summer, and for $60 this Everlane purchase will be one you won’t regret.
Take this set on your next beach day and thank us later. The lightweight knit fabric is perfect for layering on those late beach days when temperatures start to cool off a bit. You can wear the top open or closed, making it super versatile to wear with or without a swimsuit throughout the summer.
Matching sets have been trending for a while now and show no signs of slowing down, so you’ll definitely keep this one in your rotation long after summer is done. You really can’t beat this price point for such a cute, comfortable set—Oh, and it comes in ten colors.
Straw and raffia hats are synonymous with summer, and this Janessa Leone style is a cult favorite. It’s one of those items that’s always sold out, so when you see it available you jump on it. The wide brim keeps the sun off your face while looking chic by the pool or at the beach, plus the texture adds a bit of interest to your look. Janessa Leone also makes an even wider version if you prefer a more dramatic look.
Shorts are one of those categories that are always harder to shop for than it sounds—striving to find the perfect balance of length, fit, and material is quite the challenge. These paperbag linen shorts check all the boxes, and then some. They’re high-waisted which makes them ultra-flattering and versatile to style, they’re roomy while still showing off your figure, and they hit the perfect length on your thigh.
Plus, the Australian brand Posse is known for its high-quality linen fabrics, so this one is the sartorial equivalent of a unicorn.
This dress gives us Italian vacation vibes, in the absolute best way. Faithfull the Brand’s chic striped midi is perfect for a baby shower, date night, summer vacation—you name it. It’s as timeless as it is versatile, and the shoulder ties and ruffle details give it a sweet and feminine feel. This is one of those timeless dresses you’ll come back to summer after summer, just add a pair of flat sandals and your look is complete.
Wait until you see the back of this top. From the front, it looks like the perfect simple racerback tank, but the back is where it’s at. Featuring an open-back cutout and strappy details, this cute tank will take your basics up a notch. It comes in four color options and the styling possibilities are truly endless. Dressing for nights out and date nights just got so much easier.
If you’re in the market for a new beach bag, look no further. The blue-and-white stripes provide a nautical vibe and the size is just perfect for carrying all of the essentials— sunscreen, snacks, a towel, and a good beach read. It also has a convenient inside zipper for small items like keys and lip balm. Oh, and did we mention it’s on sale? Run, don’t walk.
It’s rare to find a swim brand that’s both chic and comfortable, so when that happens you jump on it. Hunza G is known for its seersucker textured swimsuits—you’ve probably seen them all over your Instagram feed.
This bikini stands out amongst the rest thanks to its stretchy material and gorgeous color. Bubblegum is bubbling up as a major trend color, so this swimsuit will have you way ahead of the curve. Plus the bright hue perfectly complements a fresh tan.
Going on a summer vacation? Meet the ultimate vacay dress—perfect for any tropical destination, European adventure, or local staycation. The cutouts at the waist tap into one of the summer’s biggest trends, and the chic one-shoulder silhouette is so romantic.
Whether paired with neutral flat sandals or your favorite heels, this dress is guaranteed to get compliments. And although it’s perfectly on-trend, it also feels classic enough to stand the test of time and become a piece you come back to every summer.