Prep Your Closet for Summer
From the nine-to-five routine to everything in between, warmer days call for a fresh look. Build your perfect summer wardrobe with fun, versatile pieces that can transition from the cubicle to cocktails on the front porch in no time.
Say Yes to That Dress
Summer. Means. Dresses. Don’t think you’re a dress person? We think you should think again! Women’s dresses deliver fun, comfortable style in an essentially effortless package — one garment and you’re good to go. (It’s like wearing pajamas, but HR won’t complain).
For days at home, we love a classic T-shirt dress. A straight, relaxed fit offers all-day comfort, whether you’re lounging on the couch, walking the dog, or running a few errands. Plus, the T-shirt dress's casual style can be dressed up with a light scarf, sweater, or jewelry. Maxi dresses and sleeveless dresses are other comfy options that can be kept casual or elevated for dinners on the patio or business-casual work settings.
Many dresses can be worn year-round with a quick change-up of accessories and layers. For a true summertime look, check out cotton summer dresses. Bright colors, fun patterns — especially florals — and shorter lengths fit the season and will help you feel extra festive at summer events or celebrations.
The Long and Short of It
The summer season always seems to fly by, so make the most of longer days with a great pair of shorts. Women’s shorts are available in just about any configuration you can imagine, from low-waisted to high-rise and from cut-offs to cuffs. We recommend a few staples to round out your summer look.
Number one: a quality pair of denim shorts. Pair with graphic T-shirts and tanks for the quintessential summer outfit. Number two: bike shorts. Don’t worry, biking isn’t required — pair sleek bike shorts with boxy crop tops or loose, lightweight sweaters for a twist on your average loungewear. And number three: women’s khaki shorts. Combine khakis with a tucked-in button-up, slim sweater, or sheer summer blouse for a business-casual fit that’s great for company outings.
Skirts with Style
The next best thing to a summer dress? You guessed it — a summer skirt! Much like dresses, skirts in neutral colors can be recycled from season to season when paired with season-appropriate tops and accessories. Instead of a sweater, combine your pencil skirt with a sleek, sleeveless bodysuit. Add a tank top and cute wedge sandals to your denim skirt for a simple yet classic summer style.
Top It Off with Tanks
Women’s cotton tank tops are, frankly, a year-round wardrobe staple. During colder winter months, they add a nice bit of extra warmth. And during warmer summer months, they’ll keep you cool as a stand-alone top. Because tanks don’t take up too much closet space, we recommend stocking up on some brightly colored options for summertime. Tank tops can be worn with almost any bottoms, from leggings and lounge shorts to skinny jeans and skirts.
Cool Coverage
Early mornings can still carry a chill. If that’s the case, add a cardigan to your commute. Lightweight cardigan sweaters are great during those transitional months from spring to summer and provide just enough coverage on cooler days without feeling stifling. Light, neutral colors like white, tan, and beige can be utilized all year — in warmer weather, pair with colorful T-shirts, tank tops, or light blouses.
For a burst of seasonal flair, however, go for brightly-colored or patterned cardigans. Wear over a crisp white button-up shirt for a simple office-ready look, or over a tee or tank top for an outfit that can easily be adjusted as the temperature changes. When the cooler nighttime air starts drifting in, you might also want to reach for a long-sleeved layer. Flannel shirts, denim jackets, and fleece sweatshirts are still a must-have for late nights at the lake or sitting around a neighborhood fire.
Kick It Poolside
Lakeside, beachside, or kiddie pool in the backyard-side — wherever you are, we’ve got women’s swimsuits you’ll love, plus cover-ups and cozy beach towels to complete your day in the sun. Check out a wide variety of one-piece styles, bikinis, tankinis, swim dresses and skirts, tummy-control options, and more.
Have Fun with Accessories
For both practical and fashion reasons, we love a good pair of sunglasses. As the summer sun intensifies, reach for your favorite pair — and collect some new ones! Retro styles, like cat-eye shapes from the 1960s or oversized frames from the 1980s, deliver a fun, easy upgrade to any summer fit. If sunglasses aren’t your thing, grab a ball cap on your way out the door. You’ll still get protection from the sun, along with a dose of casual, athletic style. For those of us who have to experience winter, summer can be a liberating time.
However, you choose to spend those sunny days, use your wardrobe as an extension of the season. Summer style doesn’t have to be complicated, and it should certainly be fun.