Must-have style basics are go-to pieces that will anchor your wardrobe for wear with anything, anytime and anywhere versatility. In the warmer months, just a few staple garments, the right accessories and mix and match footwear can leave you dressed-to-impress no matter what the occasion. With the season well underway, it’s time to throw open those closets and get started: classic style basics for summer, you're on.
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1. Chic Sunglasses
There are natural accessories for each time of year, and with sunshine and blue sky as far as the eye can see, it is all about chic sunglasses as we focus on summer fashion favorites. Stylish and functional, the right sunglasses can be the perfect complement to your face shape, hair and complexion coloring, outfit and lifestyle, while shielding your eyes from the bright rays. Designer sunnies are a chic investment, though less expensive pairs can be a fun way to try new colors, trends or statement styles.
2. A White Top
A signature piece in my own wardrobe, the white top is as easy to wear as it is fashionable. Opt for a variation of the classic button-down for a preppy or conservative look, a crisp white camisole or t-shirt for underdone style, or a textured version in lace or eyelet for a feminine twist. Find your favorite and then have fun with the blank canvas: throw it on with colored skirts, shorts and pants; tuck it or leave it loose; knot it over printed dresses for an extra layer; add a bright necklace; or pair with white bottoms for an ultra-fresh monochromatic look.
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3. Versatile Sandals
Summertime is the ideal opportunity to get outside, savor the good weather and soak in the long days. One of the must-have style basics to ensure you are taking advantage of every beautiful minute of it head to pedicured toe is the versatile sandal. As a flawless finish for the majority of your casual looks, the sandal should be neutral and timeless in design. Opt for a color that works with the core of your wardrobe (black, white or blush are often great choices) and balances visual appeal with comfort for everyday, long-wear, fashionable adventuring.
4. A Straw Tote
Reminiscent of beach towns, farmers markets and warm weather vacations, the straw tote is a seamless carry-all for the summer months, even if you are toting it exclusively in and around the city limits. In structured or satchel styles, often with leather or faux leather straps, the bag works with nearly any outfit and the neither too casual, nor too dressy feel allows for maximum wear-ability. This is one of those handbags that never goes out of good taste and will have everyone wondering where you have been jet-setting off to... whether you keep them guessing is entirely up to you.
5. A Lightweight Jacket
While in some parts of the world everyday summer sunshine and hot temperatures are a given, there are other fashionistas who may find themselves in need of a layering piece for those cool evenings or overcast mornings. Enter: the lightweight jacket, a foolproof fashion piece that can keep you covered on those less than sizzling days. Though the cut and fabric of the jacket should reflect your lifestyle, preferences and body type, two particularly useful closet staples are a fitted denim jacket for casual wear, and a silky blazer for more upscale warm weather looks.
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6. The Go-to Summer Dress
A great summer dress is an invaluable wardrobe tool - something you can wear for instant style, to a variety of occasions, dressed up or down as needed. For maximum results and versatility, classic, feminine silhouettes are your best bet. Think Audrey Hepburn-esque simplicity in a tone that looks and feels beautiful for you. Wear it casually with a woven leather belt, your straw tote and flat sandals, or amp it up with a dressy heel and statement jewelry. Either way, this staple is certain to be one of those summer fashion favorites you turn to time and time again.
7. Nude Heels
They elongate the leg, pair perfectly with almost any look and can be worn with jeans as often as formal wear. Nude heels are a flawless fashion choice all year round, but especially so in the summer months that call for lighter looks and the chance to show off a little leg. Patent, the dressiest version of this heel, complements work or cocktail styling beautifully, while a nude wedged sandal is a great alternative for fashion lovers wanting a more casual option. No matter which you prefer, this shoe is a wardrobe must for footwear, sure to keep you well-heeled every day of the season.
8. The Warm Weather Jean
Denim has long been a staple in casual wear for women, however recent years have evolved the average jean in to a fashion template for true cool casual - and even slightly dressier - looks. In a variety of cuts, colors, textures, patterns and prints, there is certainly a jean to suit even the most fashion forward. When it comes to maximum wear-ability and wardrobe essentials, however, a sleek pair of lightweight white or soft blue denim in a tailored fit is a must-have style for the season's everyday wear.
9. A Classic Skirt
The last of our style basics for summer, a classic skirt can go a long way both in terms of use value and fashion content. Silhouettes like the a-line and pencil skirt that sit just above the knee flatter nearly every body type and can be worn from work to weekend by simply switching your top, footwear and accessories. With feminine floral prints, jewel-tones and skirts with delicate texture, to strong color-blocking, solid neutrals and a variety of fabrics, it is easy to see why this staple can turn quickly into a collection.
While trends are such an exciting part of the fashion industry, the strongest wardrobes feature a core of base pieces that you can build upon. Look for tops, bottoms, accessories and footwear ideal as separates or paired together to create look after look comfortably and efficiently. We’ve listed some of our must-have style basics for this time of year - what defines your wardrobe in the summer months?
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