The Ultimate Summer Wardrobe Checklist

Now that winter is over and warm weather is here, hopefully you've packed up those bulky sweaters and fleece-lined leggings 'til fall. It's time to start thinking about lightweight fabrics and breathable materials instead.  If you haven’t got a decent summer wardrobe (or even if you do) here are a few summer wardrobe staples you'll want to keep in your fashion arsenal this season.

The Ultimate Summer Wardrobe Checklist

​Distressed Jean Shorts
Jeans are a staple in every wardrobe because they can be mixed and matched with just about anything.  But when it comes to summer fashion, heavy denim can be a little too much. Cue a good pair of cutoffs--perfect for warm weather. There are so many ways that you can style jean shorts: They go great with a tee shirt, a flowy baby doll top or peasant blouse and can even be worn as part of a casual evening outfit, especially in black.
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Women's Mid Rise Frayed Denim Shorts, amazon.com

Women's Mid Rise Ripped Denim Shorts, amazon.com

Graphic & Band Tees
What used to be reserved for cleaning the house and washing the car is now de rigueur when it comes to summer fashion.   Graphic tees and band tees (especially vintage, easily found on sites like Poshmark and eBay) 

Have A Willie Nice Day Tee, amazon.com

Bleached Vintage Look Band Tee, amazon.com

Maxi Dresses
​Comfort is absolutely key when you’re adding pieces to your summer wardrobe, so choosing items that are light and flowy is always your best bet. Long, airy maxi dresses are an ideal outfit for hot summer days. Go for the lightest materials you can find and don’t be afraid to have fun with colors and patterns.  Go off the shoulder or sleeveless, and look for sweet florals or bold geometric patterns.
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Sleeveless Racerback Maxi Dress With Pockets, amazon.com (more colors and styles available)

Sleeveless V Neck Pleated Maxi Dress, amazon.com (more colors and styles available)

​Sunnies
No summer outfit would be complete without a good pair of sunglasses, but choosing the right pair can be somewhat complicated:  you'll want them to match them to your face shape properly while still considering color and style.  Be prepared to spend a little time trying on a few different options before making your decision.

Cat Eye Sunglasses (other colors available), amazon.com

Jessica Simpson Rose Gold & Nude Sunglasses, amazon.com

​Duffel Bags & Totes
​Summer means getting outside and enjoying the weather, which means spending long days relaxing at the beach or by the pool.  You’ll need a good bag that can hold everything you might need for the day, and duffel bags are great a great option.  Roomy and stylish, opt for a bag made from cotton or linen, materials that are durable and easy to clean.

Hello Weekend Tote (black or white available), amazon.com

Extra Large Waterproof Tote, other patterns available, amazon.com

​Sandals & Slides
We adore the look of bejeweled sandals, and we're seriously hoping they never go out of style.  You can dress them up with a cute maxi or mini dress or make them the star of the show by pairing with basic jean shorts and a solid colored, lightweight tee.

Not feeling so fancy?  Opt for a pair of wear-with- anything neutral colored slides instead.

Monrovia Embellished Flat, amazon.com

Women's Espadrille Wedges, many colors available, amazon.com

​Jewelry & Accessories
Much like fabrics, summer jewelry and accessories become lightweight, too.  Thin chains, slim bangles and delicate hoop earrings pair well with summer fashion pieces.  We love the look of a "snake belt" paired with dark wash jean or black cotton shorts, too.

7 Pc. Jewelry Set, amazon.com

Skinny Snake Belt / Cinch Belt, other colors and styles available, amazon.com

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What summer wardrobe pieces are you thinking about adding this year?
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