The colours! The prints! The fabrics! Summer is undoubtedly the most joyful time of year as far as our wardrobes are concerned. New-in sections feature bursts of bright hues, peppered with tropical motifs, which come together to make a very jubilant display indeed. Now, if you’re like me and prefer to take in the bolder side of summer fashion from afar, you’ll be pleased to hear that, on the other side of the sartorial coin, that summer 2022 is going to spark a renewed appreciation for wardrobe basics.
Sure, they might not command the same attention as a billowing maxi dress in the hottest of hot pinks, but these "boring” pieces look chic and minimal when worn alone, together in sleek outfits, or to allow statement pieces to truly shine. I do not claim that these basics are new (in fact, you can count on the same staples to reappear each and every summer), but that’s the beauty of them: they already boast a proven track record of timelessness. And that makes them wise investments indeed.
From white tank tops to denim shorts and strappy sandals to wear-anywhere dresses, scroll below to see the 13 summer wardrobe essentials to stock up on this season.
1. White Vest Top
Style Notes: This year, there’s a huge focus on jersey basics—specifically the racer vest top. Whether layered under shirting or worn on its own, a crisp white style will prove incredibly versatile.
Shop the staple:
A strong option.
A cool way to give your tailoring trousers a lowkey spin.
2. One-Piece Swimsuit
Style Notes: Not only are one-pieces extremely versatile, but you can also wear yours as a top with wide-leg trousers. It could be said that they’re the most comfortable swimwear option for the summer.
Shop the staple:
Fashion’s favourite cossie.
This colour feels so current.
3. Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: Be they heeled or flat, minimalist strappy sandals will become your go-to shoes over the next few months. I pack both for holidays and find they’re the only shoes I need.
Shop the staple:
Use the ankle ties to create different looks on the leg.
Although high, the addition of an ankle strap and multi-crossover straps makes them easier to wear.
4. Wide-Leg Trousers
Style Notes: Wide-leg trousers have never been more on-trend than they are this year, and, in lightweight fabrications, they’re perfect for the summer months. Yes, they’re breezy enough for even the highest of temperatures.
Shop the staple:
I enjoy the entire suit.
A versatile shade that’ll go with everything.
5. Distressed Denim Shorts
Style Notes: I think we can all agree that denim cutoffs are the most timeless short option you can buy. Slip yours on over your swimsuit or wear them with a silk shirt to instantly elevate.
Shop the staple:
These are perfectly distressed.
Denim shorts in lighter washes will look more vintage than darer washes.
6. White Shirt
Style Notes: Where you're using your white shirt for weekend brunching, after dark cocktails, or a poolside cover-up, there are plenty of ways to wear this ultimate versatile piece. Bored of your jeans? Your white shirt will break you out of that rut.
Shop the staple:
The shirt practically every influencer I follow owns.
A great frugal option.
7. Denim Jacket
Style Notes: A jacket for the cool evenings is a must, particularly if you’re staycationing. The problem is deciphering which is the most versatile. My vote, however, goes to the staple denim jacket.
Shop the staple:
Anine Bing denim jackets always prove popular in fashion circles.
A great option for a great price.
8. Slip Skirt
Style Notes: The slip skirt might have started out life as a trend, but over the past few seasons it has evolved to become a timeless staple in the wardrobes of those in the know. Plus, they come in very handy in the summer months—just add one of the above top suggestions and you’re sorted.
Shop the staple:
I’m obsessed with this Christopher Esber skirt.
Such a gorgeous colour.
9. Basket Bag
Style Notes: I could talk all day about the significance of basket bags in our summer wardrobe, but I’ll leave it to Jessica Sky to demonstrate just how chic they make everything you wear look.
Shop the staple:
The dream basket bag.
The high street has a plethora of premium-looking baskets.
10. Something Linen
Style Notes: Linen is to summer what wool is to winter: absolutely essential. Whether you choose shirts, dresses or trousers, when temperatures peak, you’ll be glad to have a linen staple to hand.
Shop the staple:
This shade of buttery yellow is trending for summer.
H&M has some of the best affordable linen out there.
11. Slip Dress
Style Notes: The appeal of slip dresses is evident from the get-go. Understated but still sexy, they make for the ideal summer date-night outfit option. That said, if you want to get even more wear put of yours, try styling them with flat sandals and an oversize shirt on top.
Shop the staple:
The cowl neckline is so flattering.
I own this slip dress, and real rate it as I can wear a bra with it.
12. Little White Dress
Style Notes: Mini, midi, or maxi—whatever your dress preference may be, a white dress is the ultimate summer outfit saver, no matter what the occasion (save, perhaps, for a turn as a wedding guest).
Shop the staple:
Puff sleeves? I’m sold.
Broderie details make white dresses look so expensive.
13. Striped Tee
Style Notes: Classic, timeless and chic—Breton stripes get a summer overhaul in the form of short-sleeve tees.
Shop the staple:
These will look great with ecru or beige denim.
This T-shirt is made from a slightly thicker fabric than standard tees, making it ideal for chillier summer days on home soil.
Next up, the biggest summer 2022 fashion trends to know.
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