The Edit: Summer Wardrobe Essentials That Never Go Out of Style

I’m all about wardrobe essentials. Don’t get me wrong, I love to hop on the trend train here and there (loving the capris this season, FYI), but most of the time, the classics are what I ultimately opt for. Today, I’m sharing necessary basics. I like to think of these as your foundation pieces. They’re an investment of sorts, and I can almost guarantee that if you choose wisely, you will see a return on your purchases.

Let’s begin with the white button-down shirt. I can never have too many! During the spring/summer season, I prefer something lightweight in either a cotton or linen fabric. Frank & Eileen and Xirena are my go-to’s. You can tuck them into white or blue jeans (more on this category below) or leave them open over a tank. The button-down is also great to throw over swimwear at the beach — I always travel with one and keep it in my beach bag. J. McLaughlin makes fabulous button-down shirts in an array of colors. I’ve been wearing theirs in the perfect light blue shade on repeat lately.

I know, I know… there are no rules anymore when it comes to wearing white jeans all year round, although, nothing says summer like white denim. As soon as April hits, I bust out my white denim jeans and style them with black leather boots, a black cashmere sweater, a black belt and feel so chic. As it gets warmer, I swap out the boots for summer loafers or a sandal and pair them with everything from striped tees and tanks to button-downs and lightweight knits.

My favorite denim brand as of late is Rùadh — they are equal parts elevated and cool. I’m currently coveting two of their styles in white: the Quinn, which is a high-rise straight leg style, and the Rhone, a high-rise curved leg style.

If you’re looking for the perfect wide leg jean, definitely check out the “Mica” low rise style by SLVRLAKE. I own these in blue denim and they’re a winner. They run large, so I recommend sizing down.

Still Here is another highly coveted brand by the fashion crowd. This soft-as-butter white denim pair is what I call the 2-in-1 jean. They are low-waisted with a wide leg, but can also be cinched at the hem with a drawstring toggle for versatile styling. I own these in a medium blue tone and wear them both ways.

Similar to the white denim pair is Still Here’s “Cool Jean” in vintage blue light denim. This low waisted beauty has a slightly wider leg with a relaxed fit. The cotton is super soft and it drapes nicely on the leg.

For those who prefer a high waisted silhouette, Rachel Comey’s wide leg jeans are a forever favorite of mine. Comfortable & cool, they never disappoint.

If you’re looking for a great everyday pair, look no further than this low-waisted option by AGolde. I’m on the petite side and wear these with a low heel, but if you’re on the taller side, you can definitely wear these with flats.

I have stacks of stripe tees, tanks and sweaters and have always been drawn to this French preppy aesthetic - can’t stop won’t stop!
No one does a cool and casual cotton stripe like Kule. They’re well priced and well made.
For a style with long sleeves, I love this one by Solid & Stripe. The color combo is summer perfect - think pineapple, turtle green and blue lagoon blue.
On the pricier side but oh so lovely, are Prada’s stripe knit tanks with a scoop neck. This one is slightly cropped with a blue and brown stripe color way.
My favorite striped tank this season is this yellow and white knit pointelle by Loewe - a super sweet option with a scalloped detail trim.

There is something so fresh and ethereal about eyelet and crochet blouses for spring/summer. They’re feminine and lightweight with a touch of boho. One of my favorites this season is this Doen white cotton top with ruffles along the neckline. The puffed sleeves add just the right amount of volume.
Romance the hell out of summer in this Zimmermann’s crochet top in cream. The perfect going out to dinner top - très elegant!
For a pop of color, this ruby red Erdem crochet cardigan with a peplum silhouette is absolutely dreamy.

Everyone needs a smart pair of trousers in their wardrobe. This season MaxMara made a navy seersucker wide-leg style I’ve been swooning over. They also made a beige linen wide-leg style that is super sophisticated.

Gabriela Hearst trousers are a luxe classic. This season I’m loving their flare style trousers in a linen-chambray fabric.
TWP is a brand worth knowing, especially when it comes to pants. They have such an ease to them and drape beautifully on the leg. These bone linen blend trousers are worth the try.
Looking for a trouser that can transition from casual to dressy? These Jenni Kayne summer demi pants in navy can easily be worn with a sneaker or loafer during the day and then dressed up at night when paired with a kitten heel.
You know I love a stripe so I obviously had to share details on these Dries Van Noten pants. They’re made in a lightweight cotton wide leg style with a draw string by the waist - so cool.

Light brown leather belts are a summer essential. Nil Lotan offers a classic suede option with a gold-toned buckle; TWP has a similar one but in leather.

When it comes to summer bags, I’m often drawn to wicker and rattan fabrics. This whimsical rattan Cult Gaia clutch with a backgammon interior will definitely up your “game” this summer. Loewe x Paula’s Ibiza summer bags always command a cult following.

I’m currently coveting this Loewe leather-trimmed raffia shoulder bag that comes in a neutral, army green and red tone and can be worn both day and night.
For a lady like vibe, I’m loving Prada’s small wicker bag with a canvas top handle. This canvas and wicker bucket bag with a drawstring closure, also by Prada, is a classic to carry you season after season.