Versatile Summer Essentials

Summer is just about here (at least Summer weather is) and it’s the perfect time to take a discerning look at your closet! With warmer weather, I tend to get uncomfortable easily in the heat, especially with increased chances of sweating. So, I like to make sure I have really reliable essentials that I can throw together an instant without having to think twice. When pulling together essentials, think about neutral colors that go with a lot of what your summer wardrobe already looks like. For me, that’s blues, whites and neutrals! Here’s what I have in my closet and why:

SOLID MIDI DRESS: Having a simple yet elevated dress that you can wear in various scenarios is key. Midis are a great option because they’re always comfortable and lean towards both low key everyday and casual cocktail settings. I would wear this dress to work with a cardigan, to dinner at our yacht club with a wrap, with sunnies and sandals for lunch or running errands, and pretty much anything in-between. Solid colors are a great idea here!

MONOCHROME LL BEAN TOTE: Okay, I freaked out when I saw this! The monochrome take on the classic boat ‘n tote is so chic and elevated. You still have that timeless northeast summer vibe, but in a way that is incredibly versatile and works with so many outfits. The classic two-tone totes work just as well, but there is something about this that feels incredibly polished. Perfect for everywhere from the beach, to the grocery store, so paired with a dress for everyday. You could probably have this tote and a clutch for the entire summer and be set!

NAVY AND WHITE STRIPED TANK: A summer must-have is a navy and white striped tank (or short-sleeved tee). Having a reliable blue and white striped tank is ideal in many scenarios, whether you wear it on its own or as a base layer. I layer my tanks under anything and wear them alone with just about everything. Most of all, it’s important to find one that you feel comfortable in with your everyday undergarments because you’ll reach for it without stress. I love this one.

FAUX TORTOISE SUNGLASSES: Over the years, we’ve seen sunglasses trends change left and right. I cannot stress enough how important it is to have an understated, classic pair that stands the test of time. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve had oversized pairs and love my current, trendy cat-eye styles. But, it’s always a good idea to have a classic pair in your closet so you can reach for them and not worry if they’re still in or not. My new square shaped ones are about $60 and so good!

NEUTRAL SLIDES: Having easy and neutral slides is never a bad idea. I have a similar style to these and wear them more than any sandal in my closet. They work in casual everyday settings or sophisticated ones. They instantly elevate any outfit and when you have shoes that go with everything, you can easily just throw them on, walk out the door, and know that you look cute.

WHITE JEANS: This one may go without saying, but having a great pair of white jeans that you feel confident and comfortable in changes everything. For years, I didn’t love my white denim, so I would end up not wearing cute summer tops because they didn’t jive with my blue jeans as much. I linked my favorite FAVORITE pair below. Now, I put them on, feel great and wear them with just about everything.

MINI GOLD HOOPS: Aside from a solid pair of pearl studs, I love to have a well-made pair of mini gold hoops in my toolkit. Like pearls, they go with everything and can be worn in casual and dressy situations. I like to have these on-hand because they make me feel a little bit special, while always being comfortable and easy. I think they look especially timeless with neutral linen. Having a great pair that doesn’t tarnish makes accessorizing a breeze.

LINEN BUTTON UP: I live for linen in the Summer. Having a white or beige linen button up or button down is the ultimate classic closet piece for warmer months. They look incredibly chic and instantly become “a look.” You can use them in lieu of a cardigan, worn open over a tank, dress or tee, tied at the waist, and obviously just on their own! So many options and you’ll look polished and pulled together no matter the occasion.

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