Summer weather is settling in. Are you ready for it? High-quality, seasonal, wardrobe essentials are foundational in making wearable outfits that work well with the weather. Having versatile, staple pieces that fit you perfectly gives you the confidence and desire to reach for them over and over, styling them in new ways throughout the season.

Today I sharing my summer wardrobe essentials for 2021! These are the most versatile, core pieces I use when making my summer outfits. Some of them cross over from spring and others are on my list for summer only. Sometimes I wear them all together and other times I mix them with statement pieces.

If you missed it last week, I shared my process for building your summer wardrobe. The process is just five easy steps!

Sunglasses | Earrings | Top (I sized down one size) | Bag | Bracelet | Shorts (I sized down one size from my Madewell size, and two sizes from my normal size) | Shoes

See something you like? You can shop it and support my blog at the same time by purchasing through the affiliate links in this post.

Summer Wardrobe Essential Clothing

Dresses, Skirts & Jumpsuits

• White Dress. This can be any style or length to match your preference. I think white dresses look beautiful and effortless, embodying the bright and fresh feeling of summer. If you want some outfit ideas with this summer staple item, I shared six ways to wear a white midi dress in this post. If you prefer skirts, a long, flowy, white skirt gives a similar feel.
• Casual Black Dress. Although traditionally this is not a summer color, a black dress in a summery cut (sleeveless is my favorite), made from lightweight fabric is a chic summer piece. If you are not really into dresses, you could grab a lightweight jumpsuit if the weather isn’t too hot where you live, like this one that I styled seven ways.

Bottoms

• Denim Shorts. Classic, denim cut-offs are an item that will never go out of style. (you can see my current favorites, here) This item was on my spring list as well and is absolutely perfect for the summer months. Pick a length and cut that suits your preference and wear on repeat all summer long!
• Linen Shorts. Lightweight, neutral, linen shorts are so versatile and can be styled in ways that look laid-back and in ways that look more elevated. I personally like them high-waisted and not too short.
• White Jean Shorts. These might feel scary to some people— but I tried them last summer and they quickly became a favorite of mine and led me to buying white jeans. Like a white dress, they feel bright and fresh in the summer.
• Non-Denim Shorts. I have the green shorts pictured above and this pair of black shorts. Although I live in denim cut-offs most of the time, I’ve learned that having some versatile, tailored shorts adds variety and multiplies your outfit-making ability within your summer wardrobe.

Tops

• White Tee. The most classic and easy summer top. This item is as versatile as they come— it goes with pretty much everything. My advice is find a good quality one (not see through) that fits you perfectly and you’ll find yourself reaching for it non-stop all summer long.
• Graphic Tee. This is one of my favorite wardrobe staples of all time. It is super comfy and gives the same ease as a plain tee but with added interest.
• Muscle Tee. I wore this style all spring and I am still reaching for it in summer. I love the interest that the exaggerated shoulders add. It still feels basic but it also feels fresh.
• Feminine Blouse. This white shirt was on my spring list for it’s versatility. A white feminine blouse is on my summer list because of just how much I love it. It’s so versatile, bright, and fresh. The feminine details elevate this piece and therefore, your whole outfit. If you don’t love white, you could pick a floral or another color, but it might slightly reduce the versatility. And if you’re not into feminine details personally, I would absolutely go for this (I sized down one), which I have and love.
• Ribbed Tank. The best layering piece. This is a forever staple, but it is also really popular this year in the high-neck crew cut. In neutrals this piece feels so chic, especially if you add your favorite sunglasses. It works on it’s own or layered.

Summer Wardrobe Essential Shoes & Accessories

Hats

• Neutral Hat. This is great for keeping the sun off of your face. It is versatile and brings a casual feeling to everyday outfits.
• Straw Hat. This hat makes any outfit automatically look more summery. It works for an everyday look and can also be worn at the pool for sun protection. The texture adds interest to every look!

Jewelry

• Gold Hoop Earrings. Perfect for daily wear and very popular right now. Hoop earrings are simple yet interesting. They are also available in silver.
• Layered Gold Necklaces. Not too heavy or bold, these necklaces add interest and complete summer outfits.

Shoes

• White Sneakers. This is the most versatile, year-round shoe. I wear them in every single season with dresses, shorts, pants— everything. They brighten up any look and they are so comfortable!
• Woven Mules. A texture-lover’s dream! Count me in on that. I love that mules are easy to slip on and that they work almost all year with all kinds of outfits— interesting and so easy.
• Neutral Sandals. Nothing better in the summer than slip-on and go. I’ve been specifically drawn to slide sandals the most this summer.

Bags

• Straw Bag. This pairs so well with straw hats, but also works as a solo accessory. It screams summer and adds texture to any look.
• Belt Bag. Small and easy, this style of bag is so convenient when you’re on the go. You just strap it around your waist, across your chest, across your back, or slip it over your shoulder— there are so many ways you can wear it.

Other Accessories

• Belts: When layering is no longer an option because of the heat, belts can add interest in your outfit that you used to get from a third layer.
• Sunglasses: A necessity that also adds interest and chicness to all of your summer outfits.

Things I am Gravitating Towards this Summer

In addition to wardrobe essentials, it’s always fun to see what feels new and fresh each season, as well as what I still love from year(s) before. So far this summer I am loving:

All the same things from my spring list plus: sweater tops, shorts with longer lengths – not too short, straw accessories, red, and open backs.

* * * * * * *

Thanks for reading along! What are your summer wardrobe essentials and/or what are you gravitating towards this summer? I would love to hear from you in the comments below!

Coming up next, I will be sharing my go-to summer outfit combos so be sure to come back next week to check that out!