5 Wardrobe Essentials You Need This Summer
Been a while! Summer is right around the corner and for some, the nice weather is already here. I thought it would be a jolly idea to share with you my top summer essentials to build a killer outfit every time you step out into the hot sun.
Denim and trouser shorts
I have long struggled with shorts because I was never a fan of the ultra-short denim shorts sold in every mall. If that is your thing, by all means, style them in the summer! However, I have been searching for some trendy alternatives. Since I’ve been thrifting, I have kept a weather eye on the shorts section for some longer options. Lately, I have come to love the pleated trouser shorts I have been finding as well as the 80s/90s mom jean shorts! Guess what, they were all under 7$ to buy as well! I think this is a great option because, if you’re anything like me, your thighs stick together when it gets too warm and with longer shorts like these, that problem disappears.
Currently, I am rotating my black, brown, and blue trouser shorts and my black and blue denim shorts. I think these five pairs of bottoms give me a good amount of options when it comes to building outfits! Plus, trouser shorts are usually made with a light fabric, making it a more breathable option for those really sticky days!
2. Basic summer dress
I won’t lie, I am a fiend for dresses in the summer. They are such an easy way to put together an outfit since it is one main piece. No need to overthink! I think it is essential to keep at least one on regular rotation that will go with any occasion, with the right accessories. I am currently loving this black and white gingham print dress from H&M because it gives elegance for dressier occasions but it can still be worn for those more casual days as well. You can wear it with sneakers or a good pair of heels! My second favourite is this maroon midi dress from Winners. This works the same as the first one in the way that it can be worn casual or dressed up. I am looking forward to finding more summer dresses with a pop of colour!
3. Short-sleeve button-up tops
I have quite a few of these tops because they are such an easy way to give some interest to your outfits. I love dressing for cooler weather because we have the wonder of layering. However, in the summer, it is wayyyy too warm to do that so you have to get away with it in some more weather-friendly ways. I usually like to layer these tops on top of tank tops or button them up and wear them as-is. Here I am wearing a mustard yellow one I thrifted with some brown trouser shorts I also thrifted.
4. Good pair of sneakers
Let’s be honest. After the last few years we have had, we want to get out into the world as much as possible. If you are doing any kind of walking and travelling, you need a reliable pair of shoes but comfortable doesn’t have to mean ugly. I have flat feet so every pair of shoes that I own, I wear with my orthotics to ease any pain I might face with long days of walking. I usually gravitate toward white sneakers since they go with anything. I recently got a nice (brand new!!!) pair of Puma running shoes from the thrift store at 19.99$! What a steal!
5. Trusty pair of shades
As always, the summer brings that blinding sun that one must protect their eyes against. If you need a budget- and fashion-friendly option for eyewear, I recommend looking online at places like Eyebuydirect and Clearly. They usually have a good selection of different styles for a relatively low cost. If you are one of those lucky people that are blessed with perfect eyesight, sunglasses can run for as low as $9 on one of these websites (before taxes and shipping). I have two pairs of sunglasses to style for the summer, my thin-framed round ones and the chunky square ones. I think either will go with any outfit!
(Photos courtesy of my boyfriend Cedrick and his wonderful film photography)