The "Boring" Summer Basic Every Fashion Girl Owns

Sure, there are plenty of exciting pieces that are fun additions to a summer wardrobe—a brand-new swimsuit, strappy sandals, a voluminous maxi dress, and statement-making earrings come to mind—but often, it’s the wardrobe basics that are the best investments and get the most wear. While you might have staples like T-shirts and sneakers covered, there are some other core fashion buys that get overlooked. For one, white shorts.

After seeing so many snaps of fashion people wearing white-shorts outfits, I realized how versatile they are in any summer wardrobe. With versions ranging from denim cutoffs to Bermuda shorts to knit versions, there are plenty to choose from. Plus, the styling options are nearly endless. Whether worn as part of a matching shorts suit, paired with a racerback tank top, with a cropped cardigan, or underneath an oversize blazer, they’re the summer essential that will get plenty of mileage. Here, see how fashion people are wearing them, and shop my edit.

If there's one lesson I've learned, it's that you can never go wrong with a matching set. Wear a pair of shorts with a matching blazer.

Yep, Bermuda shorts are the trend fashion people are very into right now.

Proof that you can make a pair of comfortable shorts look dressed-up.

Layer a blazer over long shorts and a tank top for an on-trend look.

Linen pieces are the anti-loungewear trend that will be everywhere this summer.

Now here's a look you can wear all summer but also transition to fall.

Add a pair of heeled flip-flops to your next bike-shorts outfit.

More proof that long shorts are trending this season.

Mark my words—this will be the unofficial uniform this summer.

If you're into neutrals, this is an outfit you'll want to repeat.

How chic is this outfit?

Loungewear, but polished.

Yes, briefs are trending right now.

High-waisted shorts with a crop top? Perfection.

If denim shorts are your go-to summer staple, here's a fresh way to wear them.

Adding a bra top and an oversize blazer to these ribbed shorts is so chic.

Yes, hot pants are definitely a thing right now.

Bermuda shorts with a tee and blazer is a foolproof summer outfit formula.

I want to repeat this outfit immediately.

Simply add a half-zip sweater for an easy summer look.

Next, discover the 25 cool finds I'm obsessing over right now.