Summer Closet Staples

Hello ladies! Today’s post is all about summer closet staples. I check my closet each season to see if I have my essential closet items that will serve as a foundation upon which I can build the rest of my wardrobe. Many of these pieces are more classic in nature and are in neutral colors. They can be mixed and matched easily with the latest trends of the summer season. 

Other items are just summer wardrobe staples that I know I will need based on my summer activities like a good bathing suit with coverup and a pretty summer dress for certain occasions.

Keep in mind that everyone’s summer closet staples may look a little different. Here’s my list.

White Jeans

This is always a necessity in my closet for both spring and summer. White jeans have become a classic item just like blue jeans. Plus, you can pair any summer top with a great pair of white jeans – simple and easy!

My jeans above are from Kohl’s and very similar to these white jeans. Below are more white jean choices.

White Tee 

I found this white tee also at Kohl’s last year. It is not see through and has a v-neck – just what I wanted. There is also no pocket on the front which a lot of women prefer. It’s very inexpensive which is great, but I wasn’t sure it was going to hold up to a lot of wear and tear. Well, I was wrong. I still have it and hope to wear it all summer!

Here are more white tee options.

White Shorts

Just like white jeans, I like to have at least one good pair of white shorts. Denim white shorts are a great option, but it’s also good to have some in a cooler material for a really hot day.

Blue Denim Shorts

This is another closet staple that pretty much pairs with any top for a super casual look. The trend this year is distressed denim with raw edges. However, if you are not a fan of that look, a classic pair without distressing is a great classic staple.

Summer Dress

A great summer dress is a must have for me, especially since it’s about the only time I wear dresses! I’m always on the hunt for the perfect one pretty much like I’m always on the hunt for that perfect summer top (see yesterday’s post). Haha! I want something that can be dressed up or down and is ready to pack for any unexpected or expected summer getaway.

Summer Wrap

While I like a good jacket fall through spring, summer calls for something much lighter. It is always nice to have a summer wrap or sweater to throw on when going into a cold restaurant or for going out on an unusually cool evening.

Neutral Sandal

It’s good to have a couple of neutral sandals in your choice of tan, black, or white and in your preferred heel height. My black sandals above were an investment item that I plan to wear for many summers. I also recently got these sandals in gold.

As for summer shoe trends this year, the number one trend has to be slide sandals. Yet, they really are a classic sandal too. I have to admit I just love them for the convenience factor. Plus, there are so many great neutral choices. I did a whole post on slide sandals here.

Espadrille sandals are also making a comeback this summer, and they are not all wedges or high heels.

Bathing Suit/Cover Up

If you’ll be spending any time near the water, you’ll want a great swimsuit. I’ve always loved Coco Reef suits, because they are bra sized and very supportive.

Summer Handbag

I’m not a handbag gal, but I usually switch out my winter handbag for something lighter for summer. I was so glad to see this handbag that I’ve used the last few years restocked!

If you are not sure where to begin in building a summer wardrobe, I hope this post gives you a little direction. Likewise if you need to fill in some gaps where you are missing a few closet staples, I hope this gives you some great options.

So, what staples can you not live without in your summer wardrobe?