Summer is officially in full swing, and that means it’s the perfect time to invest in key items that’ll carry you through the months ahead. I don’t know about you, but I’ve been looking to update my wardrobe with the perfect summer wardrobe staples that I can mix and match with my favorite items and wear on repeat all season long. If you have the same shopping goals in mind, then you’ve come to the perfect place. I’ve created the ultimate shopping cheat sheet to help you create amazing outfits every time you step outside.
I’ve narrowed down the must-have staples to five items you’ll surely get the most use out of: relaxed linen trousers, tailored Bermuda shorts, versatile sandals, a summer tote, and a breathable dress. For each category, I’ve included multiple shopping recommendations from across the internet retail landscape. I can’t wait for you to create a host of glorious warm-weather looks. Happy shopping!
Shop My Editor-Approved Summer Staples
Relaxed Linen Trousers
This is peak linen season. You truly can’t go wrong with anything in this fabric, especially trousers. Relaxed linen trousers will be a summer staple forever. They’re great for a variety of occasions, from beach days to walks in the park.
Reformation
Fernando Linen Wide Leg Pant
J.Crew
Soleil Pant in Striped Linen
ZARA
Straight Leg Linen Pants
Caslon
Easy Wide Leg Linen Pants
J.Crew
Soleil Pant in Linen
Open Edit
Linen Blend Wide Leg Pants
Pilcro
Adi Linen Cotton Mid-Rise Flare Pants
Tailored Bermuda Shorts
It’s no secret that long shorts have taken over. While I love a pair of jorts as much as the next zillennial fashion person, tailored Bermuda shorts are perfect for an elevated look. Don’t mistake tailored for boring. There are pieces ahead in neutral colorways, but you can also expect a few styles with fun details.
MANGO
Straight Mid-Rise Bermuda Shorts
TOTEME
Tailored Wide Leg Shorts
Baukjen
Tobi Long Tailored Linen Shorts
Koton
Relax Fit Pleated Linen Bermuda Shorts
LAMARQUE
Barry Linen Twill Bermuda Shorts
Onia
Air Linen Pleated Bermuda Short
Wit & Wisdom
Skyrise Lace Trim Bermuda Shorts
Versatile Sandals
Sandals are a summer no-brainer. For 2026, thong sandals and elevated flip-flops are a safe bet for looking chic, timeless, and on-trend. I’ve included many beautiful iterations ahead. The choice is yours.
Reformation
Jessie Thong Sandal
Margaux
The Deia in Black Nappa
MANGO
Wedge Leather Sandals
Summer Tote
You cannot underestimate the importance of a summer tote. This bag will follow you from pool to pool and beach to beach. Not to mention, it’ll probably see a weekend trip or two. You can’t go wrong with woven styles or good old-fashioned raffia. However, I’m loving totes in canvas and mesh as well.
J.Crew
1998 Montauk Large Tote
COS
Oversized Hand-Woven Market Tote in Straw
Longchamp
Large Le Pliage Panier Tote
Madewell
The Shopper Tote in Eyelet Raffia
STAUD
Large Christos Mesh Tote
STAUD
Mini Christos Raffia Tote
Mulberry
Raffia Basket Tote
Breathable Dress
A dress that flows and doesn’t trap heat is key for those scorching-hot days. I’m partial to linen, but cotton is just as useful for rising temperatures. The Staud dress below would make a gorgeous wedding guest option, and the rest can truly be for whatever occasion these next few months bring your way.
Staud
Laura Printed Linen Maxi Dress
Banana Republic
Linen Halter Maxi Dress
Donna Karan New York
Tie Back Stretch Cotton Maxi Dress
Free People
Sandshell Linen Easy Does It Maxi Dress
DISSH
Sky Dusty Blue Linen Midi Dress
Quince
100% European Linen Scoop Neck Midi Dress
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