37 Anti-Trend Summer J.Crew, Ref, and Zara Finds That I'm All But Losing It Over
Basics are essential during any season, but never are they more crucial to one's wardrobe than in the summer when the smothering temperatures limit the amount of fun layering and experimentation we can possibly do. Outfits have to be kept fairly simple. But in my mind, that doesn't mean a look has to be boring. Rather, it forces you to stock up on basics that impress all on their own—no frills, just understated perfection.
Whenever I've had to fully restock and refresh my basics collection, three retailers have consistently proved their superiority: J.Crew, Reformation, and Zara. J.Crew and Reformation are perfect for those pieces that you want to invest in for years ahead, like cotton and linen dresses, tailored separates, and forever footwear, and Zara helps to keep your overall budget in check without making you sacrifice in the style department. Below, scroll through a mix of all three and start building a dreamy, anti-trend basics collection in minutes.
For work meetings and chic late lunches alike.
Shop the matching Linen-Blend Midi Skirt ($70).
The quiet-luxury basic everyone needs this season.
Didn't you hear? T-shirt dresses are trending thanks to Sofia Richie Grainge.
Coming up next: Wealth's the Word: 37 Items That Don't Shout But Scream Expensive
Eliza Huber is an NYC-based senior fashion editor who specializes in trend reporting, brand discovery, and the intersection of sports and fashion. She joinedBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing in 2021 from Refinery29, the job she took after graduating with a business degree from the University of Iowa. She's launched two columns, Let's Get a Room and Ways to Wear; profiled Dakota Fanning, Diane Kruger, Katie Holmes, Gracie Abrams, and Sabrina Carpenter; and reported on everything from the relationship between Formula One and fashion to the top runway trends each season. Eliza lives on the Upper West Side and spends her free time researching F1 fashion imagery for her side Instagram accounts @thepinnacleoffashion and @f1paddockfits, watching WNBA games, and scouring The RealReal for discounted Prada.
-
J.Crew's Latest Collab Is Cool, Dreamy, and Perfect for Summer
Yes to every single item.
-
Put Down the Boring Leather Tote—Every Stylish New Yorker Is Carrying This Colorful Bag Trend Instead
Spotted in London and the French Riviera, too.
-
I Proved It—Everyone Thinks These 39 Old Navy, Gap, and Zara Items Are Designer
Run and swipe.
-
J.Crew Is Having a Major Sale RN—Here Are 29 Pieces I Immediately Added to My Cart
Up to 50% off.
-
Goodbye, Boring Basics—This Is the Elegant Trend New Yorkers Are Wearing With Tank Tops This Summer
Obsessed.
-
10 Mini Trends Everyone Is Already Wearing This Summer
Are you?
-
I'm a Corporate Girlie Now—32 J.Crew Pieces That Have Me Excited for My Morning Commute
For a fashionable 9-to-5.
-
I Shop for a Living—30 Pieces From Zara, H&M, and Revolve That Caught My Eye for Summer
Polka dot dresses, tank tops, capris, and more.