I don’t know if you’ve ever heard of decision fatigue, but it’s what happens to us at the end of the day when we’ve used up nearly all of our energy reserves making, well, decisions. We’re busy people, which means we make so many choices throughout the day. From what to eat for dinner to how to word that client email, we’ve got a lot on our minds. That’s why when it comes to dressing, I like to keep things easy and rely on a carefully curated arsenal of basics to make my outfits as effortless as possible.
This season for me is all about breezy, wide-leg pants (preferably drawstring) paired with either a button-down or fitted T-shirt. From there I like to slick my hair back into a low bun and throw on some Mary Janes or a pair of slides and voilà! I’m dressed and I’m cute! Coordinating sets are another go-to option for me when my styling capabilities are at a low point. Zara has a few great options in this department. My favorites are a heavyweight T-shirt and pants set and an A-line midi skirt and crop top in a festive red, both of which I’ve included in my roundup of easy basics below.
Easy breezy.
My dream summer pants.
Banana Republic's linen pieces are also divine.
Nothing is cooler than a pair of colored-lens aviators.
The wash of this jean jacket is too good.
If the look doesn't have stripes, I'm not interested.
Name a better summer dress.
Such a sleek Mary Jane.
The ultra crop of this Breton-stripe shirt puts a fresh spin on a classic.
Upgrade your basic tank top with this sweet pointelle version.
Levi's 501s are classic for a reason.
Wear this with a pair of straight jeans and flip-flops for a laid-back '90s look.
As the name states, classic.
Functional and stylish.
So chic.
Pair this with jeans or its coordinating skirt.
This red!
I can't get enough of drawstring pants.
Nautical vibes.
Basics with texture like this open-weave tank are a great way to elevate an everyday outfit.
From the slit to the puff sleeves, this dress is incredibly versatile.
I love the shrunken fit of this polo.
Linen pants for under $50? Yes, please.
I can't get enough of fisherman sandals.
I'm jumping on the barrel-leg train and not looking back.
A substantial everyday hoop.
The baggier, the better IMO.
Screaming at how cute this is.
Your new everyday summer sandal.
I don't usually go for cashmere come summertime, but this is the perfect weight.
When pants have just the right amount of slouch… swoon.
A monochrome top-and-pant set is my summer uniform.
This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
-
Get With the Program: The 6 Summer Denim Trends We're All Wearing Instead of Baggy JeansThe summer's hottest batch yet.
-
Bermuda Shorts, Bloomers, and Cutoffs, Begone—Expert Dressers Only Care About These Elegant Shorts*The* shorts of the summer.
-
I'm Manifesting Chic Summer Outfits—25 Affordable and Stylish Walmart Deals That Fit the BillJust about everything is under $25.
-
Low-Rise, Lacy, and a Little Bit Delulu: Welcome to the Gen Z Pop Girlie SummerPut your headphones (and miniskirts) on.
-
The Summer 2025 It-Girl Wardrobe: 7 Highly Specific Items They're All WearingAka the season's most wanted.
-
I Went to Shop the Zara Sale But Got Distracted by These 27 New-In Buys and Never Looked BackThey are too good.
-
Spotted at Wimbledon: The Anti-Summer Shoe Trend You Don't Usually See in the StandsNever too hot for these.
-
From Pretty Satin to Cute Crochet, These Are the Shorts to Be Seen in This SummerTrending styles for every budget.
