Summer 2023 Wardrobe Essentials
Summer is practically here, only to be “officially” marked by the ceremonial changing out of the closets, as far as I’m concerned. Call me crazy, but I absolutely live for this sort of change. There’s something so refreshing to me about changing out my seasonal wardrobe, cleansing it of old items, revisiting and reimagining old favorites, and adding just a few exciting new pieces to kick off the season. Over the years, I’ve definitely improved in the area of investing in classic pieces to last several seasons, rather than stuffing my closet with trendy pieces I’m sure to roll my eyes at a mere year later. (Given, there’s a time and place for trendy statement pieces!)
Personally, the beginning of my summer will look like a lot of time spent in town: enjoying our pool, exploring local things-to-do like baseball games and the Farmers Market, and of course, regular work hours. Later on, I’m excited for lake weekends and our long-awaited European vacation at the end! (Get a peek at my wishlist for our trip here!)
Here, I’ve listed out for you my Wardrobe Essentials for Summer 2023, complete with staple items I find myself reaching for daily (and a few items on my own wishlist!) to help inspire you to get the most out of your own summer wardrobe. After all, our closets should work for us, not the other way around. Santé!
Oversized White Button Down
A lightweight, oversized white button down will never go out of style—meaning that it’s well worth your investment! This off-white option is a staple in my own closet that I constantly reach for, for layering purposes. It’s made by one of my all-time favorite swimwear brands, so you know it’s poolside approved for summer.
Le Specs Shades
If you know me, you know that I wear my Le Specs ‘Outta Love’ shades almost daily. For my oval-shaped face, I find that these are the perfect shape! Bonus points for their nod to vintage style, overall craftsmanship, and price point under $100. (Should I purchase them in Tortoise as well? I think yes!)
AGOLDE Parker Long Shorts
Everyone in-the-know about all things denim knows that AGOLDE is the luxury denim brand to covet. They recently lengthened their signature Parker short to be a little less Daisy Duke and a little more “summering in Paris.”
Tailored Shorts
Every closet needs a pair of tailored shorts for the easiest, chicest throw-on-and-go look for any body type. Catch me copy-and-pasting this entire look this summer. So effortless!
Layering Tanks & Tees
Abercrombie essentials have me in a chokehold right now. My dresser is filled with this particular tee in a few different colorways, along with more of their ribbed tanks for layering during all the hot summer months.
Sturdy & Chic Travel Sneakers
Another obvious choice—if you know me at all, you know how attached I am to my Vejas! I’ve sold so many internet friends on these guys, and for good reason. They are the perfect everyday sneaker to get you through all of your summer travels and everyday adventures with limited break-in time and gorgeous leather and suede detailing.
A Statement-Making Maxi
Every summer wardrobe needs a head-turning, feminine maxi dress that just makes you want to twirl. Loving the extra flirty shoulder ties on this one!
Straw Tote Bag
Everyone needs a sturdy, oversized tote for summer. Invest in quality (at a still reasonable price point!) and use this one season after season.
Flirty Garden Party Dress
I added this flirty frock to my cart recently with our end-of-summer Europe trip in mind. I can’t help but think how perfect it would be for dinners by the Rhine, and just as chic for your own backyard dinner party!
Neutral Everyday Bag
A new season is the perfect excuse to add a cute new bag to your collection. I love this under $70 option!
Little White Dress
Everyone needs a LWD (or two!) in their summer wardrobe. They make the perfect simple backdrop to show off your favorite summer accessories on date night or your Sunday brunch plans.
Matching Button Up Set
Channel your inner Coastal Grandmother in this striped, button-up set that’s oh-so friendly on the wallet.
Linen Pants
I’ve worn this exact pair of linen pants more times than I can count. They’re one of the few closet staples I’ll wear until I’ve worn them out! If you’re looking to invest in a few good linen pieces, this Australian brand is my go-to.
Linen Shorts
The iconic Ducky Pants (from above!) in shorts-form. These come in multiple colorways and are a piece I keep re-adding to my cart in new colors whenever possible.
Raffia Belt
I’m such a sucker for fun summer accessories. However, if I had to pick one, it would be a raffia belt! I always pack one just in case I need to cinch in a dress or pair of pants, or just need that “third piece” to complete my outfit.
Bottega Sandal Dupes
Every now and then, we love a good dupe. Grab these Bottega Veneta-inspired slides in a few colors, and I promise you won’t regret it! A perfectly affordable summer staple.
Striped Layering Sweater
This sweater is currently waiting in my cart, and I’m just waiting for the right time to hit purchase! I think it’s so perfect for chilly lake nights or a layering piece for summer office days.
Casual Tennis Dress
…or a sporty romper! I’m just waiting over here for it to come back in stock in black, because I’ve loved my white “skortsie” so much. Catch me wearing this every weekend at our local Farmers Market!
Bonus: Sequin Midi Skirt
Every “It Girl” will have a sequin midi skirt in their closet this summer—according to TikTok, anyway. I’ve been eyeing this one from Zara for weeks, waiting for it to come in stock. I’m dreaming of all the ways I can style it, if I can just get my hands on it. Stay tuned!
