Summer Staples

(shop this outfit HERE!)

I feel like summer hasn’t really started (unless it did and I just didn’t get the memo!) and for me, that means hitting the ‘refresh’ button on some of my favorite summer staples that I wear on repeat, year after year.  

I’ve rounded up some of my favorite pieces that will make getting dressed in the summertime a snap…


1. White Pants

I always teased my mother about her obsession with white pants but I guess the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree!  I could live in white pants during the hot months.  Not only are they full coverage for more dressy occasions, they’re versatile enough to go with almost every top/blouse you throw on. 

**Word of caution: avoid ketchup and red wine!

2. White t-shirt and tank top

If I wear one thing more than any other in my closet, it’s a basic white t-shirt.  I usually grab one from a less expensive shop so I’m not shelling out major bucks for basics.  

I also can’t stress enough how important it is to own several tank tops to wear under sheer blouses or as a base for layering.  Again, I usually pick up a few every so often to keep them bright and fresh!

My favorite places for basics:

  1. Old Navy
  2. Target
  3. Walmart

3. Black t-shirt and tank top

This is basically a copy paste moment from the above but again, always great to have those basics for layering!

4. Slip-on sandals

As someone who pays attention to trends every season, I’ve noticed a theme among footwear producers.  There’s usually a standard sandal or wedge that gets a slight makeover each summer.  Same shoe, small stylistic difference.  

I always recommend a brown, black, and white slip on sandal that’ll last you for several seasons.

My favorite places for summer sandals:

  1. DSW
  2. Old Navy
  3. Target

5. Easy cotton dresses

 For those quick errand runs, leisurely shopping, or even casual dinner, dresses are a ‘win’ in my book.  I opt for midi dresses as I am 5’9 with long legs and don’t feel like constantly tugging at my hem or being worried about showing too much. (Can I get an amen from the tall ladies?!)  

As for fabric, cotton dresses are an A+ as cotton lets you breath and keeps you cooler than synthetic fabrics.  

And for color/pattern, I usually stick with block colors so I can mix and match.  I’ll throw on a jacket if it’s chilly or a fun necklace for a pop of sparkle.

Favorite places for dresses:

  1. HM
  2. Asos
  3. Target
  4. Walmart
  5. Old Navy
  6. GAP

6. Accessories

There are a few accessories that I will *always have on hand to create a great summer outfit with as little thought as possible.  

I always have multiple sizes of gold hoop earrings, a thin patterned scarf, and a woven brown leather belt.  You can find these accessories pretty cheaply and in tons of fun options!

Best places for accessories:

  1. Target
  2. Etsy
  3. Amazon
  4. Asos
  5. Walmart
  6. Luv Aj (for more expensive jewelry)