Spring has flown by and summer is almost here. It’s a time for one and two-piece outfits, easy-breezy and simple. We’ll undoubtedly be dressing lighter, but that actually just makes having the essentials all the more important. So today I’m sharing the summer wardrobe essentials you’ll want to have in your closet and drawers so you can create cool but classy outfits.
What is a Wardrobe Essential?
Wardrobe essentials are those clothing basics that you’ll need in your closet to create beautiful, interesting, functional outfits in a season. Generally, with a few exceptions, I like to spend more of my wardrobe budget on these pieces because I expect them to stand up to lots of wear.
Keep in mind that, depending on the climate where you live, the amount of traveling you do, your lifestyle and your personal style essence, your list of wardrobe essentials may vary from mine. But the key is to make sure you have plenty of staples – pants, dresses/skirts, tops and outer layers – in either one of your two neutrals or your signature colors so that you can mix and match your clothing. (By the way, you can learn more about selecting the colors of your wardrobe and what I mean by neutrals and signature colors in this post.)
Remember, this is my summer wardrobe essentials list that I’m sharing with you. As I write it I’m actually doing the work of assessing my wardrobe to see if I have the things I’ll need to create stylish, interesting and wearable outfits for my casual lifestyle this summer. I’ll need
- very casual outfits for working from home
- easy outfits for traveling
- casual outfits for meeting friends for lunch
- elevated casual outfits for dates and outings with James
- and slightly dressier outfits for church
I share this list as a starting place for your own personal wardrobe essentials list. But your summer wardrobe essentials list – depending on your lifestyle, location and preferences – may be different from mine. So take my list and use it simply as a starting place, a guide, but not necessarily the gold standard.
With that, let’s get started!
2 Pair Casual Shorts
In the past my list started with denim shorts. But in recent years I’ve decided that I still want a pair of denim shorts as the base of my shorts options, but I also want a pair of casual but slightly more “grown up” shorts for everyday wear. I think it’s important to have two pair of very versatile shorts that I can effortlessly pair with a t-shirt for everyday wear, but they don’t necessarily need to be denim.
I purchased the denim shorts above from Talbots, but they are sold out. However, these longer denim shorts look really cute to me and probably fit the same. I’d say these fit true to size.
The length of your shorts is totally up to you. Most women will look good in shorts with an inseam between 4″ and 7″. Longer shorts will look better on women with longer legs (I’m 5’8″). But if you’re not so tall and still desire to wear Bermuda length shorts, pair them with sandals or sneakers in a color close to the shade of your skin. That way your legs will look longer and the lengthier shorts will look more in proportion.
The shorts featured above are another great option for casual, versatile shorts. They fit true to size and come in several neutral shades. My casual shorts will see a lot of wear, therefore I do want casual shorts that feel comfortable and look good. So I’m willing to spend a little more on this summer wardrobe essential. However, I only wear them one season of the year here in Ohio, so I don’t want to blow a large portion of my clothing budget on them either. The bottom line is I invest in good quality casual shorts but I choose not to pay for premium denim.
Note: All of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you shop through them and buy something, I potentially earn a commission, but at no additional cost to you. Thank you for shopping my links and supporting my work. It’s a pleasure to serve you!
1 Pair Dressier Shorts
I do still occasionally choose to wear shorts out and about, too. I have a feeling the day will come when I’ll stop wearing shorts beyond my front door. I know many of my readers have already made that decision, and as I age I can understand why. But for now I still like to have at least one pair of dressier shorts on hand. Especially when we’re vacationing in warmer climates I like to have these to wear out to dinner or for an outing.
I frequently choose dressier white shorts, but you could also go with another neutral such as black, taupe or navy. And actually even a gingham plaid in a classic color like black or navy will work as a versatile closet staple in your summer wardrobe, too.
If you like to wear shorts to a casual outing, I simply suggest having some with a little more polish in a neutral color or gingham. Choose some you can easily dress up or down for versatility. That way you can include them in your summer vacation packing list and they’ll serve multiple purposes. This year I purchased these flax colored linen shorts, and I expect them to be very multifunctional.
I personally love Ann Taylor for dressier shorts. That’s where I’ve gotten many of my favorites, including the gingham shorts above. But Chico’s is another great source, especially for longer Bermuda length shorts. And I got the linen shorts from Talbots. I’ve filled the shopping widget below with shorts that have a slightly elevated style.
By the way, I recently recorded a video full of tips for wearing shorts stylishly over 50. That video will air on my YouTube Channel on Wednesday, June 8. On June 22, I plan to share a video about what to wear instead of shorts in the summer.
2 – 3 Pair Casual Summer Weight Pants
Especially since I’ve gotten a little older and since I’m moved north, I find myself wearing casual summer weight pants more frequently during the warm months. These are things like chinos, cargo pants, joggers and linen pants. Most of the time I prefer a cropped or ankle length in these casual go-to pants.
Last year I fell in love with linen, so my favorite casual summer weight pants are in this distinctly summery natural fiber. But you can choose pants in cotton, Tencel or a cotton-linen blend, too.
While I’ll undoubtedly have a few lightweight pants in prints or fun colors, too, the essentials are in my chosen neutrals. That way they’ll be more versatile. This year my neutrals are navy, flax, ivory and black, but I also have white and khaki colored chinos in my closet from previous years.
These summer weight casual pants can be in any silhouette that you enjoy and that works well with your body shape and proportions. They don’t have to be straight leg pants in order to be versatile. Choose from wide, flare, straight, balloon, relaxed, jogger or slim leg silhouettes. And you can also choose from cropped, ankle or full length pants. You do you! It’s summer, and your fashion choices should be more fun than ever.
Honestly, while I do need and wear shorts, I pretty much lived in lightweight pants last summer. If you, like me, find yourself wearing shorts less often these days, I suggest having at least three pair of versatile, lightweight summer pants in neutrals that you can easily mix and match all summer long. Choose wisely and you can dress them up or down.
1 – 2 Pair Dressier Summer Weight Pants
In the past I’ve loved wearing white pants during the summer. However, a couple of summers ago I sold my dressier white pants (because I didn’t like the button detail at the bottom of them), so I wanted to invest in some new dressier summer slacks this year. Alas, so far I have not found what I’m looking for.
Instead I’m enjoying wearing my navy and flax colored linen demi boots pants, as seen below.
I also purchased these black demi boot pants this spring and plan to wear them through the summer (and probably into the fall), too.
I find that two to three pairs of dressier pants is sufficient for my rather casual lifestyle, but if you still work outside the home you may need to have more like 3-5 pairs. I suggest having at least three of those in your chosen neutrals. And if you’re only going to have a few pair like I do, I suggest going with either white, a similar soft camel or light grey or navy, which is another summer classic.
Your dressier summer slacks can be in any silhouette and length that suits you. I like ankle length in a trim but loose fit. You may prefer a full length in a variety of silhouettes. Just keep these dressier pants free of bells and whistles so that they will be more versatile.
1 Pair White or Other Summer Jeans
I wear my white jeans so much more than I do regular blue denim in the spring and summer months. These jeans look fresh and seasonally appropriate, plus they help you create beautiful summery looks. They’re so versatile.
But this year ecru or natural colored jeans are really more on trend than their white counterparts. Of course, white jeans are always on point and will never go out of style. But if you’d like to add a new pair to your closet this year, I suggest you consider that natural colored options.
In fact, you might want to check out my recent post on 5 Ways to Wear Natural Colored Jeans for more styling ideas for these versatile jeans. But of course you absolutely can wear blue or even black denim in the summer, too. So if you prefer those more forgiving shades, go for them! And I recently ordered these straight leg crop jeans in mineral blue. Colored jeans are not as on trend as they were a couple of years ago, but they can still be a fun option.
2-4 White t-shirt + others
Of course, I think a white t-shirt is essential all year long, but especially in the summer months. It’s easy to pair with most any pair of shorts, jeans or pants, plus you can wear it with a denim or print skirt for a fresh, casual vibe.
In the past I’ve said that this Supima Cotton V-Neck Tee from Banana Republic is my favorite. And it definitely still ranks up there. But this year I purchased three of the Goodlife tees (worn below in faded black) and I absolutely love them.
And I’m wearing the white Goodlife tee in the photo below. These tees are just a great weight, fit nicely and feel substantive without feeling heavy.
I suggest having one to two plain white tees with a classic neckline like a v or crew or boatneck. But I also suggest having a couple of solid tees with some interesting detailing. My thinking is that these more detailed tees can hold their own without adding a top layer. So they’re great for simply pairing with some shorts or those summer pants.
White and/or Solid Color Tanks
I’ve discovered in recent years that I really enjoy being able to wear a simple tank under an open button up shirt for a more pulled together look. Layering a shirt over a solid color tank is also a great way to stay cool but keep your arms covered.
I definitely can suggest this reversible tank from J.Jill that I’m wearing above. I’ve actually worn this simple tank a lot under sweaters this spring. It comes in a variety of colors and, as the name implies, you can easily flip it so that you have a scoop neck or a v-neck.
But Chico’s also has a nice variety of tanks. And Talbots carries solid tanks as well. I’ve filled the shopping widget below with those and other options.
1 Linen or Cotton Button Up Shirt
Speaking of layering tanks under shirts, I’ve added a linen or cotton button up shirt to my summer wardrobe essentials list in recent years, too. While you can go with a fitted shirt, I like having a blousier button up shirt for layering. Since I wore this combo so much last year I’ve decided it’s worth recommending for the more mature woman’s summer closet.
I enjoyed the linen shirt above so much that I have purchased several more since then. This is a summer wardrobe essential that will be in my closet for years to come. And price per wear I’ve gotten a great deal!
But as much as I love my linen shirts, this year the gauze shirt is trending. So I’ve purchased a couple of those, too, and they can be worn the same way. So you might consider adding a lightweight gauze shirt to your wardrobe if you’re not a huge fan of linen…or you just already have several linen options.
1-3 Casual Summer Dresses
While I definitely recommend having at least one nice summer dress to reach for when you attend a wedding or funeral or other nicer occasion, I also like having a couple of more casual selections. For my casual lifestyle, these will see more wear and prove more versatile.
My dress above is quite casual, so I’ll probably mostly wear it around the house. But it would also make a great vacation dress. Below is a dress I enjoyed a lot last summer and it’s available in new prints and colors this summer.
I also have the above dress in black, and I really enjoyed that last summer, too. It’s available in black again. This summer knit dress is so comfortable and versatile. It feels cool and fits so easily, true to size. And I love a black summer dress under a denim jacket for a casual date night look.
I love wearing dresses in the summer, even around the house. But especially when I get out and about I love the feminine touch of a dress. Maxi dresses are trending this year, but choose the length of dress you enjoy and will wear the most.
1 Summer Blazer
I’ve become convinced that every gal needs a summer blazer. Now maybe you’d still prefer a cardigan, and that’s fine. But even the prettiest cardigan can’t elevate an outfit the way a blazer can. And you can now find such beautiful, lightweight blazers in all price points.
I definitely reach for my white linen blazer most frequently during the spring and summer. But you can find other versatile options, too. But for this wardrobe essentials list I am indeed referring to a blazer that would pair nicely with many things in your closet, not just one or two. So look for something in either one of your wardrobe neutrals or a signature color.
Of course, you don’t have to limit yourself to beige or white. I’ve seen so many gorgeous lightweight blazers this spring, and I know we’ll continue to see them this summer. Here are some to choose from at various price points.
1 Pair Classic Fashion Sneakers
Again this year fashion sneakers – or what most of us would just consider sneaker sneakers! – are definitely having a moment. So let’s enjoy it. Plus these shoes have become so versatile. You can wear them with shorts, jeans, crops, dresses, skirts and jumpers. I love having a pair of white sneakers, but you can certainly select a different color or even a print, depending on your style aesthetic.
I’ve been wearing the Tory Burch Leather Howell Lace-Up Sneaker (in Titanium white and Tory navy) for a few years now. These sneakers are some of the sweetest I’ve ever worn. They’re a splurge, but so, so sweet!
But for the past two years retro trainers have really been trending, too. I enjoy these New Balance x J.Crew retro trainers because they fit the bill of the trending shoes, but they are in a subdued tan color that actually elongates my lets a bit when I’m wearing shorts. I’ve filled the shopping widget below with a number of great options at all price points.
2 Pair Summer Sandals
Once the warm weather is here I’ll be wearing sandals more days than not. In fact, I’m already wearing them most days. Nothing looks as feminine as sandals! I like to have at least one pair of metallic sandals to elevate an outfit.
I also love having a pair of neutral sandals, something close to my skin tone. They elongate the legs no matter what you’re wearing. And of course, they’re versatile. I’m loving these Naturalizer slides in birchwood. They are extremely comfortable and come in other colors, too. I also have the black ones.
Of course you can enjoy wearing more colorful or ornamented sandals in the summer, too. But for me metallics and neutrals are the essentials.
Here’s a shopping widget with lots of sweet sandal options. Just keep in mind that for these Summer Wardrobe Essentials you’re looking for sandals that you can wear with a variety of things from shorts to pants to skirts and dresses. Keep in mind that almost every sandal in the shopping widget below comes in multiple colors.
1-2 Summer Handbags
Finally, at least for this list, you’ll need a summer handbag. If you only want to invest in or even carry one bag this summer, I’d suggest a light colored neutral, maybe a beige, pale pink, soft white or warm caramel. Select one that will work nicely with your chosen neutrals and signature colors.
I’m enjoying my white pebbled leather Coach Camera Bag this spring. It’s a bit pricey, but it is currently 30% off. And I don’t mind spending a little more on quality handbags that I can carry for several years or more because I know these will stand up to the wear.
I also am already enjoying my straw bag from Brighton. It’s no longer available, but they have lots of other great straw and wicker bags to choose from. For me a straw bag is definitely a summer wardrobe essential. I enjoy pulling mine out at the beginning of each summer, and I know I’ll carry it for years.
This year I purchased this one from J.McLaughlin for Abigail for a honeymoon gift. She said she really enjoyed carrying it in Charleston and Savannah, and got so many compliments on it.
Good straw handbags tend to be pricey and they rarely stay on the shelves long enough to go on sale at the end of the season. But a well constructed straw bag will not go out of style and you’ll use it for years. On the other hand, you can certainly find pretty straw bags at lower prices, too. I’ve filled the shopping widget below with a wide variety of summer handbags and shoulder bags in a full range of prices. In fact, many of them are currently on sale.
Other Essentials
Well, for the sake of not losing you altogether due to the length of this post, I’m going to simply name a few “honorable mentions.” These are items that may or may not be essential to you depending on your lifestyle and personal style essence.
- Denim jacket – This is a wardrobe essential, period. But depending on where you live and travel this summer, you may or may not use it often.
- Swim suit
- Swim suit cover-up
- casual skirt, such as a denim skirt
- neutral pumps or heeled sandals to wear with dresses and slacks
- summer hats like this one I’m wearing
Remember, when it comes to shopping for most wardrobe essentials, I suggest investing enough to get quality products. These are either items you will wear for years (think blazer, denim jacket, handbag, denim shorts) or they are pieces you will wear frequently (think white t-shirt, sandals, sneakers) so you want them to be durable, well-made and classic.
I hope you enjoyed today’s post. If you have questions, please let me know. Thanks so much for reading.
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Blessed for My Day
How are you doing at living in community these days? Have you begun to get out and about and enjoy the company of friends again? Living in community is beneficial to our physical health, our mental and emotional health, but also to our spiritual well-being. It forces us to practice the “one anothers” mentioned in the Bible, such as love one another, be patient with one another, be kind one to another, etc.
So I’m making it a goal to reach out a little today. I’m sending out some texts and even placing some long overdue phone calls to check up on friends. And I’m telling you so I’ll be more likely to follow through! #accountability Let’s be women who intentionally live in community with others – encouraging, comforting, rejoicing, celebrating and rejuvenating with one another – so that we’re healthier and happier.
Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. ~ Romans 12:15
Hi Kay! I had my teeth cleaned yesterday afternoon. While I’m glad that they are good and clean, I do not enjoy having it done. I learned from my hygienist how difficult it is to breathe with the PPE and that once she puts the face shield and mask on, she cannot take them off during working hours, except to eat lunch. God bless them! I thought that I just somehow missed your post yesterday, so I’m glad to know that I didn’t. I appreciate the work you put into compiling some summer essentials for us. A brand of nice shorts, that are reasonably priced that I really enjoy wearing is the Kim Rogers brand from Belk. They run true to size. I hope that you have a great day and a relaxing weekend.
Yes, Ginger. I tried to include the Kim Rogers shorts in my shopping widget but they would not load photos. So here’s a link if anyone is interested. https://shopstyle.it/l/bibSJ Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for that link. I love the Kim Rodgers line of clothing. She has some very nice solid tees also.
Great post, Kay! Thanks for doing all the hard work for us & making it easy to shop for summer essentials. I plan to keep this post and refer back to it throughout the summer. Thank you! Have a blessed weekend!
It’s 85 degrees here t now and I’m dewing up just looking at you in that jacket. Mama told me horses sweat, men perspire and women dew up. LOL
Beautiful outfits and the softer pretty colors just make me feel lighter in spirit. White jeans and drawstrings are my go tos for summer. I’m going to need my church fan if I sit outside today. Have a great one,?
I am still saying no to haircuts, mani/pedis, shopping in stores, and dentists. Just not ready for the exposure at 66. Trimming my own hair a bit, doing my own nails and attempting to wear everything in my closet at least once instead of buying. But I still enjoy looking!
Hi Diane. I hear ya! I’m definitely keeping all that to a minimum too. Take care of yourself! Nothing is more important than your health. ?
Hi Kay, I am in Wisconsin and relatively new to your blog. You are adorable and a breath of fresh air! I love your honest, down to earth style in all that you do. Thank you for that. Also thank you for suggesting non-denim options. I’ve never been a denim fan; it looks good but I have always found it uncomfortable to wear. I’m 74 and retired. My budget does not allow me to buy at most of the stores you recommend but I try to take your fashion advice and apply it to what I can afford.
Fabulous and helpful post Kay! Thank you! AND I LOOOVE that slider line under the fashion sneakers with the store and price popping up as you slide across the bar. That is really helpful. Now I need to look through my summer wardrobe that I have just BEGUN to take out in NE Ohio!
Went through your list of summer essentials and have most everything I need except for a nude pair of sandals and new tees for layering. Need to go through my closet again though and make sure I don’t need anything. Lol
I am retired but still like to have nice things for church, grocery stores and just for myself. I believe that you have to dress for yourself too, otherwise you get sloppy, lazy, and just don’t care about your appearance anymore. I have a sister and friend since the pandemic hardly ever go out of their houses. Too me this is unhealthy and causes depression. I have tried to talk to them about it but my friend has a fear and God does not want us to fear. We need to depend on Him. Thank you for the BFMD. This helps me to read your scripture and words. Bless you.
Kay, there is a weird technical thing going on with this post. A lot of the comments showing up on my iPad are from a post you write May 29, 2020. Any way, this is a great starting point for us to use as a guideline. I would like to add one loose fitting linen blouse to my closet, specifically to go with my light grey linen pants. And adding one tank to complete the outfit would be good. I hope that you had a wonderful Mother’s Day and that today had been good for you.
Hi Ginger. That’s because I reposted that post here. I updated it and reposted. It does better in Google search that way.
Great post, Kay!
Kay, this post is so timely and essential to being prepared for the summer season. Thank you! It is still quite cool here in southeast Michigan, so I haven’t even worn sandals, yet. To start off my summer wardrobe, I bought two new pairs of jeans – both from J. Jill. I bought a pair of boyfriend jeans, and the new cuffed jeans. I was looking to add a few items to complete my summer wardrobe, and your post was an answer to my prayers. I have a few items to buy, and I will be all set for a Michigan summer. When it does arrive. I am still waiting for spring to stay. Thank you again for all you do to keep us modern and stylish.
Janet Hug
Commerce Twp., MI
Hahaha! Yes I’m still waiting for Spring to stay too! ?
Kay,
Your blog posts and videos are always informative and inspirational. I have to say that I do not think denim shorts are very flattering on most older legs (like mine.) I think cropped pants in a nice cotton or bermuda shorts are a better way to go. But of course, this is just one opinion! Thanks for helping us all look good!
Thank you for the verse. God puts so much in so few words. And for reminding us to encourage others.
Thank you so much for this! It’s 90+ degrees here in Florida and we’re melting. Your style is totally on point and always serves as an inspiration to me and what I’m trying to with my wardrobe.
Also, thank you for all the time and effort you obviously spend on getting all of this together for us thankful readers!!
Dana
You bet. My joy and pleasure.
Thank you for this post! I am in Texas and it gets HOT!!
Hi Kay,
Just wondering if wearing nylons under shorts to help improve appearance is a fashion no no?,
I remember seeing this done years ago.
Thanks for all you do
Hi Jean, yeah I wouldn’t suggest that. I’d recommend trying leg makeup instead. https://shopstyle.it/l/buqOA
Ideas for Summer Posts; 1. There are a lot of transitions in fashion happening after 16 months of WFH/SIP. What trends do you see and how can we prepare? 2. What’s a capsule wardrobe (inexpensive please!) beach weekend look like? 3. What nail polishes, general colors and wraps (kimonos, shawls, headbands) should we incorporate? 4. How do you arrange your closet to prepare to DFYD? 5. Deep conditioning for my hair, feet and hands, please! 6. When we sit outside to eat but the sun goes down….and we’re still outside…how to look summery but stay warm? 7. Can you help us work through your curriculum re: wardrobe, color, style, together as a group, with weekly ‘tasks’ to help us spend the summer improving our closets and wardrobes? I want to do it but I need to be ‘on task’. 8. False lash application. 9. Beauty Routine Guidance (daily, weekly, monthly, seasonally) 10. Examining our purses and wallets – what’s out? 11. How to wear summer scarves and accessories that add ‘polish’ to an outfit. 12. Elevate – progressively show how to take a wardrobe staple from ‘ok’ to “wow” to “OH YEAH!”
Kay, can you link the fringe woven belt worn with the green shorts? It’s great!
Hi Kay,
I love the post! Would you or anyone have any advice on size for a Levi’s trucker jacket, please? I’m contemplating buying one but the on-line reviews are giving mixed messages on sizing -some saying it runs very small and others that it is TTS.
Hi Stephanie. I love my Levi’s jacket. Mine is a size medium, which is true to size for me. I’ve had mine for about 30 years so I don’t know if sizing has changed. I doubt it. Plus you do want it to be slightly oversized so you can easily layer under it.
Thanks Kay. I think I’m a similar size to you so I think I’ll try the medium ?
Kay, An idea for a post ould be on the subject of casual summer skirts. Belo the knee and longer ould be nice to see. Some of us NEVER ear pants!
I have a real challenge with footwear, I have to wear orthotics in my shoes as well needing wides in sizes, presently using sneaker mules, what suggestions do you have for this challange in summer sandals? I really cannot wear heels or a higher wedge as well.
Hi Cathy. The point really is just to have some shoes that are appropriate for dressier occasions. So whatever works best for you. I’m realizing that as we get older our bodies really start dictating more of our fashion choices. And the most importing we can do is wear what we need to wear and do it confidently. ?
Thank you for this informative post. You have helped so much in my shopping. I’ve made better decisions when keeping your advice in mind. I often ask myself, “What would Kay think of this?” when mulling over a possible purchase.
I can tell you work hard in presenting the best possible content. Thank you!
Thank you. I’m so glad you enjoyed the post. These wardrobe essential posts do indeed take a lot of work. But I think they’re so important.
Great post. Definitely worth the wait. I wear more dresses in the summer than pants. Dresses are cooler and can be casual also. According to the syle
of dress and and accessories. Hope you have a nice weekend coming up.
I posted my comment and then went back to read what the other ladies had to say and saw that not only my comment from this year was there, but my comment
from last years post too. Think something is still not right. Just thought I would let you know.
Hi Sherry. No, that’s right. I just refresh this post every year with new essentials, new photos and new links. But the comments do indeed stay from each year. This way I don’t have competing posts on my website and people who find the link to any of the previous years’ posts will be linked to the most current wardrobe essentials post. Earlier today the post was running off the edge of the page on the mobile version, but that has indeed been fixed. Thanks so much for reading. 🥰
Today’s decision is a “Class Act”……. Way to go Miss Kay
Thank you for understanding, Jacqueline. I appreciate you ladies so much!