have you ever wondered what to wear on a hot summer day? layers are out once the sultry temps set in, although a cardigan or light jacket comes in handy when the restaurants dial the thermostat to sub-zero temps. but putting together a chic summer wardrobe doesn’t have to be complicated when you have the basics on hand. today i share my top 10 summer wardrobe essentials that can be rotated non-stop all summer long.
top 10 summer wardrobe essentials
the white dress
the humble cousin to the little black dress, don’t underestimate the power of the little white dress. it’s easy, effortless, and perfect for a hot summer day. a dress is one and done. just add your favorite accessories, and you’re ready to walk out the door. a white dress will always make my top 10 summer wardrobe essentials list.
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sandals
coming in at number 2 on my top 10 summer wardrobe essentials list is sandals. summer is the time to head to the nail salon for a little TLC and a gorgeous pedicure. tangerine tease or dusty denim by Essie are trending this summer. so go ahead and ditch your pumps or sneakers and rock a pair of sandals instead. not only will sandals keep your feet from overheating, they’ve been known to give the illusion of elongating your legs.
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shorts
if you are looking for a chic alternative to skirts or a dress, may i suggest a pair of shorts? whether you like a shorter length, somewhere in the middle, or Bermuda’s, there’s a perfect length for you. wear shorts, you ask? yes ma’am. i indeed love to wear shorts on a hot summer day. shorts can be a controversial topic for women of a certain age, but i have been and continue to be an advocate for them. so much so that not wearing shorts makes my #2 style rule every woman should break.
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white t-shirt
okay, let’s face it, the white t-shirt may not be the most exciting piece of clothing, but it is one of the most versatile pieces you will ever own. this one item can partner with nearly everything in your closet, whether it’s black pants, a patterned skirt, or blue jeans. you can never go wrong with this wardrobe staple which is why it always makes my top 10 summer wardrobe essentials list.
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black dress
yes, many of us like to retire black once summer arrives. but a little black dress is oh, so versatile any time of year. when you’re tired of the little white dress, this little number comes in handy.
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sunglasses
what better way to finish off a stylish summer outfit than with a pair of sunnies? from cat-eye frames to a classic pair of aviators, there are plenty of styles to choose from, which is why they always make my top 10 summer wardrobe essentials list. plus, they help protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
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white pants
there’s something refreshingly chic about the color white on a hot summer day. so ditch your black pants in favor of white pants. whether you like your pants cropped, wide-legged, straight, or flared, there’s a silhouette made just for you.
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t-shirt dresses
pieces that are comfortable casual, and versatile make for some of the best wardrobe items. enter the t-shirt dress. what’s better than a t-shirt dress come summer? i can’t think of one.
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summer blouse & Breton tee
a summer blouse can be casual and chic, and it goes with so many things. don’t be afraid to add patterns to jazz up your summer neutrals. but i couldn’t resist adding the beloved striped tee onto my top 10 summer wardrobe essential list. every year i add one or two more striped tees into my wardrobe. why? they’re sporty chic and go with shorts, skirts, pants, and denim. the list is exhaustive.
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straw and wicker handbags
y’all know i love to pull out a wicker or straw handbag when summer rolls into town. this accessory never gets old. and there are so many choices. so go ahead and pick one. i promise it will be on style repeat all summer long.
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honorable mention jumpsuits and rompers
if you’re looking for something a little extra special, don’t be afraid to slip into a jumpsuit.
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About The Author
Great post! I would add a white polo and and a black polo (logo free) to wardrobe staples. Again, not the most exciting items, but guaranteed to get the most use.
I love reading your blog & so admire your positive tone in your posts! As a 67 year old living in south Texas on the Gulf Coast I very much look forward to reading your latest messages ~> always informative & inspiring! Peace!🌻
Perfect post, Beth. That Navy shirt dress with the caramel belt is the stuff of dreams for me! It’s hard to find just the right personal style in shirt dresses – for me this hits the spot.
Wonderful styling ideas – my Pinterest is full of your posts 🥂
By the way, the pic of you eating ice cream – wow. I am really impressed and amazed at the results of you IPLs. Also love the eyeshadow/lip combo on you. Please share colours/brand 🥰
A great video~ Love all your suggestions for a summer wardrobe. Great ideas that made your list.
You look so pretty in every look! Loved them all.
You look chic in every single thing!
Thanks for the list. It’s a good one.
As a Brit I would add a lightweight rain coat as an essential for a summer wardrobe.
Need to know where you purchase all the handbags, sandals darling blouses etc-
Thank you!
if the items are new they are linked directly to the brand. if the items are older then they are linked to similar items.