the best best: summer essentials
Consider this the best best summer starter pack.
Summer is officially here! Although, to be honest, it’s been a bit anticlimactic since it’s felt more like fall just about everywhere I’ve been this past month. From Charleston to New York to Kansas City, it was A LOT of rain, sixty degree temps, and frankly, a bit shit. But! The company/vibes were high, and the sun and warm weather finally showed up in NYC this week, which has been glorious. Of course, in true New York fashion, we’re heading right back into a stretch of cooler, rainy days. However, I’m reminding myself that summer doesn’t technically start until June 20th, so we have time!
And while there are still a few transitional weather days on at least my horizon, it’s time to prepare ourselves, and most importantly, our wardrobes, for the solid streak of 80-degree days that are right around the corner. I love layering as much as the next person—realistically probably more, but I must admit that I’m finally ready to shed my beloved trench coats and kick off summer outfitting.
Generally speaking, I would describe my style classic, timeless (if I’m allowed to say this about myself?) and rooted in a belief that a capsule wardrobe is really just the best best. Which I stand by! However, summer, particularly this summer, my style is pivoting towards fun, novelty, and fish-shaped bags! It’s going to be a fish girl summer™—look out for a dedicated newsletter later this month, and I’m ready to embrace it. We all have an inner maximalist gal, and it’s time to let that girl run free. Don’t get me wrong, my coastal core pieces aren’t going anywhere. In fact, it’s these core styles that will allow you to lean into the seasonal trends without over-indexing!
At the start of the year, I took stock of my wardrobe and shared the best best wardrobe staples of 2024, and I’m pleased to share that many of these pieces have already been dusted off and worn into the wild—thanks to a bachelorette in Mexico where temps and humidity were high! My closet is stacked with so many spring/summer hero styles, and I was instantly reminded of many (!!) great looks from last year. Looks, I’m ready to recreate and elevate by mixing in a few new silhouettes and trend-driven styles. You know it’s a good piece when you’re excited to grab for it season after season, year after year, and I think I’ve truly cracked the code.
Thanks to these core, timeless staples, I’m only looking to add a few standout pieces to complete my wardrobe for peak summer—and, most importantly, for my upcoming travels. And sticking with my standard “rule and requirements” for purchasing, I’ll only be adding items I can see myself wearing again and again.
So here you have it—the best best starter pack for summer, featuring styles that should seamlessly take you from Memorial Day to Labor Day, from work day to weekend, and everywhere in between. The majority of these items already exist in my wardrobe—hopefully in yours too. Summer dressing is going to be FUN, but great, consistent outfitting starts with the essentials. These are mine—and please let me know yours in the comments!!
Xx, my best best!
1. Oversized Button Down
A year-round staple that is so versatile, chic, and timeless. Wear it to the beach, tucked into denim for work, or worn loose with relaxed cotton, silk, or linen pants. And to be honest, if I haven’t convinced you on this piece yet, let’s discuss!
Options & Links: Gap Organic Cotton Poplin Big Shirt (pictured here!) | DONNI The Pop Shirt | Toteme Cotton Poplin Shirt | J.Crew Étienne Oversized Shirt | Zara Oversized Gardine Shirt | Frank & Eileen Oversized Button-Up Shirt | COS Oversized Tailored Shirt
2. Something striped.
I feel like this needs no explanation. Stripes are my love language, and in my opinion, are anti-trend. That said, they are definitely having a moment! Striped pants, striped button-downs, striped accessories, you name it. I personally like to stack my stripes, and nothing says summer like the perfect striped piece!
Options & Links: La Veste Parasol Pants (pictured here!) | DONNI The Stripe Pop Drawstring Pant | KULE Uma Tote | Matisse Mary Jane Flats | Damson Madder Puff-Sleeve Blouse | Alex Mill Elle Striped Sweater
3. Hunza G Bikini
There are a few bikini brands I come back to season after season, and Hunza G is at the top of that list! Their silhouettes are, in my opinion, universally flattering, making them great for all body types and age groups. These are the suits I reach for most often. They look amazing, but more importantly, they feel even better. Truly the most comfortable!
Options & Links: Ruby Bikini in Olive | Celine One Piece in Red| Domino One Piece in Brown | Square Neck One Piece in Lilac | Sadine One Piece in Green| Nadine Bikini in Black
4. Something crocheted.
While your immediate thought might be a cover-up, and you’re not wrong, crochet has worked its way into street style. While crochet is definitely having a moment (i.e., yes, it’s a trend!), these pieces can still be timeless. Consider adding a skirt or top, and feel confident that it’s something you’ll wear for years to come!
Options & Links: Mango Long Floral Skirt | Dôen Eloise Dress | Simon Miller Beep Beep Miniskirt | VRG GRL Vest & Pants | Zara Knit Cardigan | | J.Crew Crochet Bandeau Tank | Zara Knit Top
5. Flip Flops
I have been on the flip-flop train for a few summers now, ever since 2019, when Tibi released their leather flip flops, which I still have. The Bryan Flip Flop, which they paired suits, and I have 100% followed suit (pun intended!) There is something so effortless about pairing something so tailored and “formal” with a summer staple that’s traditionally meant for the beach/weekend. Needless to say I will be pairing my flip flops with my suits and beyond!
Options & Links: Madewell Greene Flip Flops (last season’s version, pictured here!) | Gap Jelly Flip Flops | A.EMERY Kinto Sandal | Havaianas Top Flip Flops | Zara Leather Flip Flops | Tkees Lily Sandals | Mango Leather Sandals | Sam Edelman Jelly Flip Flop
6. A little white top!
Last summer, I was obsessed with little white tops. A little white top is light, airy, ties in the front, maybe effortlessly falls off the shoulder, could be cropped, has a ruffle, etc. I invested in more than I’d like to share here, because for me they are the perfect item to pair back to trousers, printed pants, etc. Great for a hot summer day!
Options & Links: Zara Embroidered Top (pictured here!) | Dôen Traveler Top | Madewell Ruffle Puff Sleeve Top | J.Crew Scallop Trim Top | Dôen Hilda Top | J.Crew Ruffle Top | Reformation Swan Top
7. Long Denim Shorts
The long denim short is an upgrade I made last summer, and I haven’t looked back! While there is still a time and place for a shorter short, the long denim short is the answer to wearing denim shorts to the office (depending on where you work!) Somewhere between a berumda and a jort, this is a core wardrobe staple!
Options & Links: Citizens of Humanity Ayla Short (pictured here!) | Mango Denim Jorts | Madewell The Essex Long Baggy Short | Reformation Hale Jean Shorts | Gap Longline Denim Shorts | SLVRLAKE Walker Denim Shorts
8. Cotton Sweater
I realize sweaters are probably the last thing on your mind as we head into summer, but need I remind you that there can be a chill at night? A cotton sweater screams coastal summer, and something everyone should have in their wardrobe.
Options & Links: Massimo Dutti Knit Sweater | Dôen Voyage Sweater | Kiel James Patrick Rollneck Sweater | DONNI Cotton Knit Cardigan | KULE The Grace | J.Crew Marina Sweater
9. A necklace worth talking about!
Have fun with your jewelry—that’s all! After years of minimal, delicate jewelry, I am drawn to fun, conversation-starting pieces.
Options & Links: Chan Luu Corinne Necklace | NOTTE Seaside Souvenir Necklace | Jennifer Behr Atrani Necklace | Dorsey James Bezel Paracord Necklace | Lizzie Fortunato Sky Stone Necklace | Brinker + Eliza On Holiday Necklace | Anthropologie Mixed Beaded Necklace | Lizzie Fortunato Pacific Reef Necklace—also love the Sardinia Charm Necklace
Note: If you haven’t checked our At Present yet for all your jewels I highly recommend! It is truly one of my favorite places to search for new pieces and get inspo for stacking the pieces I currently own. Great mix of high and low as well!
10. Kitten Heels
At this point in my life, heels higher than 2 inches are reserved for special occasions. I’ve never loved the idea of changing shoes just for commuting, which is exactly why I’ve clung so tightly to the kitten heel. Kitten heels are practical, but still have the ability to elevate an outfit.
Options & Links: Larroudé Amal Mule | Reformation Sophie Sandal | Toteme Leather Thongs | Dolce Vita Mylee Heels | Schutz Carolyn Patent Mule | Coach Margot Sandal | Jeffrey Campbell Doretta Sandal | Margaux Dylan Sandal | AEYDE Ilvy Zebra-Print Mules | Maguire Mérida Sandal | AEYDE Ilvy Satin Mules | Dolce Vita Brevel Heels | St. Agni Paillette Kitten Heel | Sam Edelman Dollie Thong Sandal
11. Straw Hat (bonus points for packable!)
I have never been a hat girl, but as my skincare obsession deepens, so does my need to keep my face out of the sun. I added a straw and canvas hat to my wardrobe this season, and it’s really the perfect way to complete a beach look. Packable because I will primarily use these on vacation, and I’d prefer not to have to hand carry and/or wear through the airport.
Options & Links: Gucci Straw Boater Hat (pictured here!) | LOEWE Paula's Ibiza Fisherman Hat | Jenni Kayne Raffia Sun Hat | Ralph Lauren Striped Bucket Hat | J.Crew Wide-Brim Raffia Bucket Hat | Janessa Leoné Suni Bucket | Jenni Kayne Linen Bucket Hat | Janessa Leoné Teagan Hat | J.Crew Linen Bucket Hat | Loro Piana Nari Straw Hat (If this is in your budget, please humor me!)
12. Something sheer.
I have been obsessing over 90s fashion as of late, specifically Ralph Lauren, and all I want to wear is a nearly sheer knit top—with a silk or sequin skirt, sheer skirts, etc. Talk about timeless, classic, and effortless!
Options & Links: Simonett Sheer Flow Trousers | J.Crew Eyelet Slip Skirt | Zara Organza Midi Skirt | Chan Luu Chloe Sequin Tunic | Ulla Johnson Demi Camisole | Soeur Dua Pullover | The Garment Gilian Pants | & not pictured—Wardrobe NYC Sheer Bodysuit (a staple for layering!)
13. Boat Shoe
I never thought I’d be this girl, but I recently purchased my first pair of Sperry’s and I’ve worn them SO much. They are a great transitional shoe, and something that will take you through peak summer. A great non-sandal option—perfect for travel and any wet days when you don’t need to have your toes exposed. Also, let’s give our sneakers a break?
Options & Links: Reformation Fia Boat Loafer | Miu Miu Boat Shoe (the shoe that started it all!) | Sperry Slim Boat Shoes | Aeyde Harris Leather Flats | Loeffler Randall Franco Boat Shoes | Jeffrey Campbell Yachting Day Boat Shoes
14. Capri Pants (yes, it’s time!)
I feel like no one is ready for the return of the capri pant, but they’re back, baby! So jump on the bandwagon, because they can become a quick staple. It’s nice to have a variety of silhouettes that you can interchange to make new outfits, and the capri can be just that! There is also something so classic about capris that I feel like Aubrey Hepburn every time I wear them. So join me, and you can feel like her too!
Options & Links: Reformation Petra Linen Pedal Pusher | Dôen Lula Crop Pant | Gap High Rise Ponte Capris | Dôen Lula Capri Pant | Abercrombie & Fitch Tailored Capri Pant | Free People Bette Capris
15. Statement Sunnies
I’m personally over small sunglasses, bring on something statement and fun!
Options & Links: Jimmy Fairly The Nax | Lapima Lisa | LOEWE Oversized Eyewear | SM x Delarge Mirage Sunglasses | Elisa Johnson Jane Sunglasses | LOEWE Cat Eye | Crap Eyewear The Spaced Ranger | Paloceras Pebble Havana Gold | Bottega Veneta Drop Aviator Sunglasses | LOEWE Square Sunglasses | LOEWE Paula’s Ibizia Sunglasses (on sale!!)
16. Dress (that you can wear 100x!)
We all need a dress (or two!) that we can rewear over and over again, without feeling bored—or like a lazy outfitter! Nobody wants people to be saying, “There goes Alex again in that dress she wears all the time!” I’m kidding, I don’t think anyone is saying this (and honestly, let them! lol), but there is nothing better than a versatile silhouette that can take many shapes and vibes based on your accessories.
Options & Links: Zara ZW Collection Poplin Dress | G. Label by Goop Gemma Dress | Faithfull Hedy Dress | Massimo Dutti Flowing Dress | Dôen Melina Dress | Staud Ari Dress | Faithfull Denise Maxi Dress | Anthropologie Tobie Shirt Dress | Rixo Sandrine Dress | J.Crew Collection Empire Dress | Faithfull Aniela Cotton Maxi | Anthropologie V-Neck Shift Dress | Zara Linen Dress
17. Midi Skirt
Another the best best closet staple that I wear all year round. I personally think a silk midi skirt is one of the more versatile silhouettes out there, and something that can be dressed up and down season after season. If you’re new here, my go-to outfit combo is a silk skirt, tank, and blazer. Can’t go wrong!
Options & Links: Reformation Carolina Silk Skirt | Zara Lace Midi Skirt | Mango Midi Satin Skirt | J.Crew Gwen Knee Skirt | Dôen Laurie Skirt | Massimo Dutti Flowing Midi Skirt
18. A fun-shaped bag!
Last summer, I purchased a fish-shaped bag from Staud, and it quickly became a key part of my style personality for summer. It took every outfit up a notch and just brought me so much joy every time I wore it. It feels like the fish-shaped items of summer 2024 were just the beginning, because this summer I am overwhelmed by the range of fun bags available right now. Again, an easy way to upgrade your classic look!
Options & Links: Cult Gaia Lydia Wicker Bag | Simon Miller Shelly Mercado Bag | Cult Gaia Camila Clutch | Alémais Raffia Fish Crossbody Bag | STAUD Palm Leather Bag | Cult Gaia Amun Shoulder Bag | Clare V Petit Pot | JW Pei Shell Clutch
19. Linen Pants
In my opinion, no summer wardrobe is complete without a few linen pieces. However, I understand that linen can be quite polarizing due to the wrinkles involved. I’m here to tell you to get over it! It comes with the territory, and dare I say part of the charm? Especially linen pants. You’re lounging, you’re cool, you’re effortless—of course, there is going to be a little wrinkling!
Options & Links: Reformation Olina Linen Pant | J.Crew New Soleil Pant | Aritzia Lodge Pant | Buck Mason Crosshatch Linen Easy Pant | DONNI Linen Simple Pant
20. Classic Tank & Tee
To know me is to know my love for a good white tee and/or tank. Some highlights—this Argent Oversized Pocket Tee (pictured below!) truly has the perfect oversized fit! A ribbed tank, specifically a DONNI Rib Tank. I can’t say enough about this piece! The ideal piece for layering, seemingly never loses its shape or support, and has a great price point. My price per wear is so low because I wear it so much! And my newest obsession—Flore Flore. A thick tee that is perfect on its own, as well as for layering. So many fun colors, shapes, and fits! I will definitely be adding 1-2 more to my summer wardrobe. (Looking at you, Dewi Tank!)
Options & Links: Argent Oversized Pocket Tee | DONNI Rib Tank | Flore Flore Car Tee | Flore Flore Dewi Tank | Leset Margot Tee (Set of 3!) | COS Clean Cut Tee | Reformation Rowan Crew Tee
Idk how I ended up here but I am loving it! The style inspo I have been desperate for!
I couldn’t make it through the Summer (and most of Autumn/Winter) in LA without long denim shorts. In fact, I’m on the prowl for another pair and also designing (much fitting and refitting) a perfect, slouchy pair. They make getting dressed quickly so simple. And since I tend to remember appointments and meetings 20 minutes before I must log in or walk out the door, and I realize I’m still working in my PJs, simple is a life saver. This year I’m hoping four pairs will keep me covered. We’ll see.
Ditto striped shirts, blouses, and tees!