The best wardrobes are built on basics. These are timeless silhouettes with a high-quality construction that can be worn for a variety of occasions, over and over again. Classic and versatile, basics can easily be mixed and matched to create foundations for your outfits. You can dress them up or down and try out new trends with shoes and other accessories. When it comes to picking out essential pieces for summer, we’ve got you covered. Comfort and breathability are key, and you’ll also want protective items for spending time in the sun. Read on to discover our list of must-have summer basics to refresh your warm-weather wardrobe.
There’s nothing more classic for summer than a crisp women’s t-shirt in white. Simple, stylish, and versatile, a white t-shirt can be paired with anything in your rotation. They’re soft, comfy, and ideal for warm weather. Anyone can put on a white t-shirt and look great in it.
There are plenty of cuts and sizes to choose from to find your best fit. Whether you go for a cropped boxy style or a curved hem design, you’ll get plenty of wear out of a white tee. Throw yours on with a pair of cropped boyfriend jeans, linen pants, or denim shorts. You can also wear a white t-shirt with skirts, jumpsuits, and overalls.
Another great basic for summer is a flowing midi skirt. These skirts can be worn high in the waist or low on the hips, but the hem usually hits mid-calf. Made from lightweight fabrics, they flow beautifully and create a natural A-line shape that is flattering on all shapes and sizes.
Midi skirts offer more coverage than a mini skirt and more breathability than pants. The loose fit is great for staying cool and comfy in hot weather. Midi skirts come in a wide range of vibrant colors and eye-catching prints. Find the one you love and wear it with all your favorite tops. It will look especially good with bandeau and off-the-shoulder designs.
Even in hot weather, you may still need to layer up. Whether it’s to soak up excess sweat or protect yourself from the sun, you’ll need a basic you can rely on. Enter women's tank tops. These sleeveless basics offer the same comfort as a t-shirt, with the added benefit of keeping your arms and neck cool.
Lightweight and comfy, tank tops are ideal for throwing on over a bikini or under a button-down shirt. Pair them with shorts, sweatpants, or statement skirts. Choose a silk or linen tank top for a relaxed, flowy fit. To stay dry and keep your look streamlined, go for a design with moisture-wicking fabric.
For a summer staple that never goes out of style, look no further than a pair of jean shorts. Practical and stylish in every color wash, denims are a go-to for building casual warm weather outfits.
They’re easy to pop on over a bikini or swimsuit when you need to cover up after a swim. You can also wear them to the park, on the trail, or for the next backyard barbecue. Jean shorts look great with t-shirts and other warm weather tops. Style them with your favorite casual shoes, from sneakers and espadrilles to slides and flip flops.
Swimsuits don’t have to be just for swimming. In hot weather, your best one-piece swimsuit can double up as a bodysuit to pair with skirts and shorts. Wearing it this way is ideal for on-the-go summer days. Now you can head from the pool, lake, or beach to your next activity without having to change. The quick-drying fabric will ensure you stay comfortable. There’s plenty of fun designs to choose from to make your outfit pop. Style it as you would any warm weather top. An off-the-shoulder one-piece looks fantastic with an A-line skirt, for example. For another outfit, try pairing a cap-sleeve one-piece with high-waisted shorts.
Finish off your summer outfits with this essential warm-weather accessory. A unisex hat will not only add the final touch to your look, but it will also protect you from the harmful effects of the sun. A wide-brim hat is ideal for relaxing on the beach. For workouts and trail runs, a visor offers protection and breathability. Going for a street-ready look? A classic baseball cap or trendy bucket hat won’t let you down. Hats come in a wide range of colors and prints, so you can easily find the one that best expresses your style. Choose from a range of summer-ready fabrics, like cotton and straw.
These must-have basics form a simple yet stylish capsule wardrobe for summer. Use the list to pack for your next vacation or refresh your summer rotation. Need to stock up on new pieces? Don’t miss Lands’ End’s collection of comfy, high-quality basics for the whole family.