6 Women’s Summer Wardrobe Staples

We’re officially into spring, which means one thing and one thing only: summer is just around the corner.

Stores are finally stashing away heavy winter clothes, replacing them with the light, bright frocks of summer. If you haven’t already started, now is the perfect time to begin planning your summer wardrobe.

Summer clothes are all about keeping it simple. A carefree and cool—literally and figuratively—look is always in style during the summer months. We’ve listed the essential pieces and accessories that you’ll need to pick up to get ready for the season ahead. Pair with a tropical-hued lipstick or nail polish and you’re good to go.

Casual Shades
The perfect summer sunglasses can take you from a beach to a boat to a barbecue party. They’re sporty yet stylish, pretty yet practical. Look for classic shapes, like aviators or wayfarers, that are flattering on just about every face shape. Stick to neutrals for a sophisticated look, or opt for a neon shade for a little summer pop.

The Million-Dollar Swimsuit
Every woman needs to find a swimsuit that makes her feel like a million bucks. This suit doesn’t dig into your skin, nor does it sag at the bottom. It’s flattering in all the right places, and is well-structured so that you can comfortably swim in the surf and frolic in the sand. Trying on swimsuits is a tedious task, but it’s worth investing some time into find that million-dollar swimsuit.

The Go-To Hat
Whether you’re using it as sun protection, to tame your ocean-styled mane, or as a statement accessory, you need a go-to hat (or two) in your wardrobe. A floppy ribbon hat provides maximum coverage and is impossibly glamorous, while a straw fedora never goes out of style.

Goes-With-Everything Sandals
Your ultimate summer shoe is easy to slip on and easy to slip off. It doesn’t get stuffed with sand if you take a stroll on the beach, nor does it makes your tootsies sweat when that mid-day sun is shining strong. Equip yourself with a neutral pair of sandals that are sturdy and comfortable. Consider investing in a well-made pair: you’ll be living in these shoes all summer, and nobody likes having their day interrupted by painful blisters.

A Breezy Sundress
The beauty of dressing for summer is that it’s so, so easy. No need to mix, match, or layer: just slip into a breezy, flowy sundress and set off on your way. Dress it down with flip flops and a sun hat for a casual day at the beach, or pair it with heels and some statement jewelry for a night on the town. You might want to pick up multiple sundresses—this will likely be your uniform for the entire season.

Dream Jeans
Dark denim might go with everything, but it can feel hot and overbearingly heavy in the heat of summer. Pick up a pair of white denim jeans and make them your go-to pant of the season. Skinny jeans are still in style—just be sure to pick quality denim that won’t show the pocket liners through the pants.

And that’s all it takes to build the perfect summer wardrobe. Bring on the sun!