Stay Cool, Look Hot
You probably know the basics you need for summer: lightweight tees, baggy pants, a good pair of shorts. After all, it's all about choosing breathable fabrics that help you stay cool, while still letting you show off your unique sense of style. So, which essentials should be in your closet? From tank tops to sandals and everything in between, here are 20 must-have summer staples to always keep within reach.
1. T-Shirt
T-shirts are a must-have in any closet, and it goes without saying that these tees are a summer essential. They're simple enough to dress up or down, and can be easily layered when those hot summer afternoons turn chillier in the evenings.
2. Tank Top
When it's too warm out to be wearing something with sleeves, you'll definitely want to go with something that's breezier, like tank tops or camisoles. The best part about these is that they layer extremely well, too, meaning you can pair them with a thin hoodie or button-up on those windier days.
3. Linen Button-Up
Linen is the perfect fabric to wear for summer, given that it's lightweight, breathable, and able to wick away sweat. That's why you'll want to keep a casual linen button-up in your summer closet that you can just throw on and go.
4. Sundress
Sundresses are great for any occasion, whether you need something more fancy to wear out to brunch or something casual for a walk on the beach. Pair it with a wide-brimmed hat and a canvas tote, and you'll be all set to tackle the blazing heat.
5. Denim Jacket
There's a reason why denim jackets have never gone out of style, and it's because they're not only stylish but also extremely versatile. You can practically wear it with anything! While it might be too thick to wear during the dog days of summer, they're nonetheless perfect for layering when the breeze starts to kick in.
6. Leather Jacket
If you're looking for something a little less casual-looking than a denim jacket, then a leather bomber should be your pick. Just like a denim jacket, this sleek bomber pairs well with almost anything, but elevates your look by adding a suave, chic vibe to your outfit.
7. Denim Shorts
If you don't have a pair (or five) of denim shorts in your closet, then you're probably not ready for summer. After all, these stylish shorts are what you'll see everyone wearing when it's scorching hot out! Whether you like them short or Bermuda-style, denim shorts are perfect for any occasion under the sun.
8. Flowy Linen Trousers
Prefer something longer to avoid tanning your legs too much? Then you should definitely keep a pair of linen trousers in your closet. The key is to make sure they're flowy and non-constricting, giving you that perfect, relaxed look and feel.
9. Canvas Tote Bag
A canvas tote is a must-have for any season, but in the summer, they come in particularly handy. Whether you're lugging around your water bottle, sunscreen, journal, or a beach towel, this bag is big enough to hold it all. The best part? They're super stylish!
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10. White Sneakers
Sure, sneakers might not be your footwear of choice when the sun is blazing and you're sweating buckets, but white kicks do go well with just about any outfit. Plus, they're best worn in the summer when the weather is nice; you probably wouldn't want to wear them when rain takes over in the fall.
11. Flip-Flops
What's the best beach footwear, you ask? The answer, of course, is flip-flops! Easy to wash and perfect for long, sandy walks, these thongs (don't be alarmed—that's what they're called in Australia) will make sure your feet stay nice and cool.
12. Swimsuit
Swimming is a must in the summer, so you should always have a bikini or swim trunks ready in your closet! Even if you're not a big fan of dipping into the water, you'll still want to keep a suit handy for suntanning sessions at the beach.
13. Baseball Cap or Straw Hat
Have sensitive skin? To avoid getting sunburnt on your face, you'll want to invest in a good hat that keeps those harmful UV rays away. A stylish baseball cap or wide-brimmed straw hat will do just the trick—and looks good with various outfits, too.
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14. Sandals
For something a little more stylish than flip-flops, sandals are your pick. These strappy shoes will keep your feet from feeling too toasty (unlike sneakers) and go well with almost any outfit. Just be careful not to run in these!
15. Silk Scarf
Who says scarves are only used for the colder seasons? If it's too hot to style your kerchief around your neck, you can also use it to tie your hair back, decorate your bag, or even use it as a belt. The fashion possibilities are endless.
16. Sunglasses
Another closet staple for the summer is one that needs no explanation: sunglasses. But we'll give you the why, anyway: just like how you wouldn't want those harmful sun rays to damage your skin, you want to protect your eyes in the same way.
17. Maxi Skirt
On the days when wearing pants feels too restricting but a skirt seems too exposing, maxi dresses and skirts are the perfect pick. Long, flowy, casual, and ultra-feminine, it's no surprise that this outfit is so popular among frequent beach-goers.
18. Distressed Jeans
You might think jeans are too thick and heavy to wear when it's scorching out, but with so many styles out there, you're bound to come across a pair that's perfect for the season. Our advice? Choose a pair that's heavily distressed for those summer days when you feel like rocking denim.
19. Light Sweater
Whether it's a lightweight sweater or a cropped hoodie, these layering pieces are great for when the sun goes down. Just make sure the fabric you choose is one that's breathable and absorbent, like linen or cotton, so you don't overheat in it.
20. Cardigan or Wrap
Are cardigans and wraps more your style? It's a good thing they also make perfect laying pieces, especially in the summer! Plus, with so many styles and varieties out there, it's easy to keep a few choices in your closet to alternate through during the season.
