5 Essential Summer Fashion Pieces

With summer well on its way, I am so eager to see what trends will pop up on both the runway and in store-fronts. I love summer for its endless possibilities in materials, cuts, and colors. Textiles like linen, for instance, become ideal to wear for its comfort-factor during days of higher temperatures. I’m all about mixing and matching pieces and using every one of my clothing items to its full potential. All year long, I make the conscious effort to purchase pieces that are versatile and could be used to create different outfits for different occasions. This technique actually makes my wardrobe seem double its actual size.

I rounded up my essential pieces for the upcoming season. I spend a lot of my summer evenings dining out and spending time with friends and family. This year, I made sure to pick up pieces that would help build various looks so that I would always stay appropriate for whatever event I’d be attending. For me, it’s all about transitioning and taking your ensemble from “daytime-casual” to “evening-radiant.” Here’s what I’ve recently picked up: 

A Cropped Jean Jacket

I adore denim’s ability in completing and elevating an entire look. I pair jean jackets with my simpler attires like all-cotton dresses and monochrome outfits (a black-on- black ensemble, for instance). I love a more distressed denim because it can add structure without feeling too stiff. Plus, gold accessories pair really well this material and so it’s easily dressed up with the right accessories. For these reasons (and many more), I decided that a cropped jean jacket would be a key piece to have in this year’s summer wardrobe.

A Simple Pair of Black Shorts

When we think of shorts, we often think casual and sometimes, even a little risky. Well, let me tell you: it’s all in how you wear them. Let a pair of black shorts take the lead in your summer outfits by dressing them up and getting creative with them. Choosing the right fit and length can help you feel more fashionable than inappropriate. In the daytime, a white crewneck t-shirt, a long necklace, and a pair of clean sneakers scream “casual-chic.” For evening-wear, a satin blouse that’s been tucked in and your favorite black booties will make you feel really put-together without looking too serious.

A Bold Skirt

I can never say no to a statement piece: think bright colors and unique patterns. I can wear this skirt to the office with one of my favorite colored blazers but then sport it with a jersey button-up for a more casual look.

A Cross-Body Bag

Being hands-free during fun summer outings is always a plus. I often find myself reaching for cross-body bags during this season because they’re just so easy to carry around. Details that I look for in a cross-body are: a good, solid structure (it offers a more refined look), fine details in hardware like a metal chain for a strap, and neutral colors for easy matching.

Statement Accessories/Jewelry

On certain days, the summer’s sun will be shining so brightly that all we want to do is rock a camisole and a light maxi skirt. Simple outfits can easily be elevated by sporting single statement accessories like a chunky necklace or a large ring.

What are your go-to pieces for the summertime? How do you transition from office-wear to evening-wear during the season?