I'm a stylist—here are the 10 summer items I suggest to all my clients.
**May 13, 2025**
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Year after year, I find myself dreading the arrival of summer fashion, which always catches me by surprise. A quick check online shows I'm not alone in this sentiment. Whether you're struggling to figure out how to dress for the heat or longing for your beloved layers, it's clear: summer style can be challenging.
As a stylist based in NYC, I spend countless hours both online and in stores shopping, keeping up with trends, and finding the best pieces for my clients. Over time, I've developed an internal catalog of brands that I frequently recommend and pieces that achieve the status of closet staples. While it's easy to get swept away by summer trends, I always advise my clients to concentrate on items they can see themselves wearing for at least another season or two. This way, you start each summer with a collection of pieces you know you love and are excited to wear.
Here are the 10 summer wardrobe staples I recommend to all my clients.
1. **A White Tank Top**
A white tank is the solution to many wardrobe dilemmas throughout the year, seamlessly transitioning from a white tee in the winter to a summer staple. I prefer to keep several in my closet—whether U-necks or crewnecks—so I’m always prepared. A white tank pairs perfectly with almost any summer outfit, and I currently love a cropped tank worn with baggy shorts and sleek sandals.
2. **A Beaded Necklace**
I'm a bit biased when it comes to jewelry, as I own a large collection and typically wear several statement pieces at once. However, summer jewelry presents its own unique challenge. A strand of colorful beads is an essential part of my mixed-metal collection, tying together my neutral outfits. A beaded necklace looks beautiful on its own too, especially when matched with a white dress or a ribbed tank. You can elevate the look by pairing it with coastal-inspired accessories like shell earrings or a starfish-shaped pendant.
3. **A Colorful Bag**
Just as a statement coat is crucial in winter, a trendy accessory is essential in summer. With the season featuring minimalistic styles, it can feel unmotivating to get dressed. My solution? Investing in a well-rounded selection of accessories, including colorful bags. Those who know me are aware that I'm rarely seen without a bold red or yellow bag when the temperatures rise.
4. **An Easy Dress**
Throughout the warmer months, I've gathered a collection of summer dresses that I reach for time and again. Dresses are convenient, one-and-done outfits that take care of most styling aspects. I only need to select accessories. Though I prefer a maximalist style, in summer, I gravitate toward neutral mini and maxi dresses, which serve as a great base for a colorful bag or trendy shoes.
5. **Everyday Sandals**
I have dozens of shoes, and they play a significant role in my fashion choices throughout the year. However, for sandals, I find that having the basics—a light pair, a dark pair, a slip-on, and flip-flops—suffices to get me through summer.
6. **A Pair of Statement Shades**
In the past, I hesitated to go beyond my trusty black and brown sunglasses. Last summer, I impulsively bought a red pair and haven’t looked back since. I'm excited to enhance my summer wardrobe with a few more statement shades this season. If colorful frames aren't your thing, consider opting for a unique silhouette or interesting metal detailing for a similar effect.
7. **Drawstring Pants**
After months of rotating between jeans and trousers, surviving summer without them feels almost jarring. That’s where elastic-waist pants come into play. They are lightweight, breathable, and incredibly versatile, working for both day and night. You can find plenty of linen and silk pull-on styles, but I prefer a crisp poplin for a simpler option.
8. **A Midi Skirt**
Years ago, I purchased a beige, elastic-waist midi skirt at a designer liquidation sale, and it has remained a staple in my wardrobe. It's one of the most comfortable pieces I own, yet it can be dressed up effortlessly with simple combinations like a tank top and flip-flops. If a client doesn't have a summer maxi skirt, I recommend starting with a classic option in black or white; for those looking to expand their collection, a brightly colored midi is a great choice.
9. **A Versatile Top**
Warm-weather tops should be comfortable, breathable, and versatile. To maximize my investment, I prioritize materials and silhouettes over colors and prints. A peek into my closet reveals an array of sleeveless vests, oversized button-downs (which can double as cover-ups), and airy bl
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I'm a stylist—here are the 10 summer items I suggest to all my clients.
they will have your summer clothing collection