In simple terms, here are the 10 best items to purchase this May.

In simple terms, here are the 10 best items to purchase this May.

      Welcome to "10 Things to Buy," a monthly shopping guide designed to help you shop wisely by highlighting 10 essential items to add to your cart each month, especially if your wardrobe needs a refresh. As a Who What Wear editor for the past 11 years, I've dedicated countless hours to advising shoppers on seasonal must-haves, so you can trust my recommendations. Whether you're preparing for colder climates, warmer weather, a holiday, or a wedding, I’m here to provide you with the most relevant suggestions. Be sure to check back at the beginning of each month for more.

      As the saying goes, "April showers bring May shopping,” right? With days becoming consistently warm and long, it's officially time to start curating your summer wardrobe if you haven't already. As always, I'm here to assist with my monthly shopping list featuring the top ten items to consider buying. While April focused on transitional pieces, May's list is filled with early summer finds, including a mix of basics and trend-driven items. Whatever your wardrobe needs this month, I'm confident you'll discover something that fits among the selections below. So, keep scrolling to explore the top ten things to buy this May 2026.

      **Bug-Eye Sunglasses**

      Just like that, oversized bug-eye sunglasses are replacing slim oval shades. Adding a pair to your eyewear collection is an effortless way to ensure your outfits this month (and beyond) look incredibly on-trend.

      - Khaite x Oliver Peoples 1967C Round-Frame Acetate Sunglasses

      - Jimmy Fairly The Aela Sunglasses

      - Free People Noir Buggy Sunglasses

      **Lightweight Balloon Pants**

      A year after genie pants regained popularity, you’ll struggle to find a brand that isn’t crafting its own version of this trend. Lightweight balloon pants in fabrics like poplin, linen, or silk are a smart investment for this month. They’re perfect for those hot days when jeans are too much, but you’re not in the mood for shorts.

      - Zara Elastic Waist Balloon Pants

      - EAVES Leny Parachute Pants

      **Elevated Thong Sandals**

      While flip-flops remain a staple, elevated versions are currently in vogue, adding a polished touch rather than a casual appearance. Opt for thong sandals made from leather, suede, calf hair, or satin; you might even find surprisingly upscale jelly styles available this season.

      - Vince San Juan Thong Sandals

      - A.EMERY Kinto Lizard-Effect Leather Flip Flops

      - Madewell The Iggy Thong Sandals

      **Raglan Tee**

      Raglan tees, also known as baseball tees, are leading the T-shirt trends this season. Available in various color combinations, the fashion-forward crowd is embracing creative ways to style them. Incorporate one into your wardrobe to join the trend.

      - Aritzia TNA Soft Feels Fender Longsleeve

      - Madewell The '90s Crewneck Tee in Compact Cotton

      **Satin Bermuda Shorts**

      Isn’t it delightful when trends merge to create a fresh style? This season’s standout is satin bermuda shorts. Among the options available are lace-trimmed styles, extending the silky lace shorts trend that took off last summer.

      - Aritzia Babaton Mitte Satin Shorts

      - Reformation Drew Satin Shorts

      - THE FRANKIE SHOP Nelis Lenzing Ecovero-Blend Satin Knee-Length Shorts

      **Raffia Bucket Hat**

      The onset of summer provides the perfect occasion for a trendy new hat. This year, invest in a minimalist raffia bucket hat, a seasonal twist on the felt bucket hats that were popular in winter.

      - Madewell Hand-Crocheted Seamless Bucket Hat in Raffia

      - COS Sculpted Straw Bucket Hat

      **White Soft-Leather Flats**

      It’s time to set aside black ballet flats in favor of white versions crafted from soft leather. Whether you choose a loafer, minimalist ballet flat, or oxford style, your May outfits will gain an instant style upgrade.

      - Toteme Leather Ballet Flats

      **Lace-Trimmed Camisole**

      Lace-trimmed items are all the rage, and one of the latest styles gaining traction is the silky camisole. They look exceptionally chic when layered under a tee or lightweight sweater.

      - Reformation Carolina Silk Top

      - MANGO Asymmetrical Lace Lingerie Top

      **Light-Wash Denim**

      If, like me, you wear jeans all summer long, the ideal purchase this month is a light-wash pair. Traditionally seen as casual, this season people are styling them up with heels.

      - LEVI'S 501 90's Lightweight Straight Jeans

      - AGOLDE Lana Straight Jeans

      **Minimal Tank Dress**

      If you appreciate '90s minimalism, you'll be excited to find that simple tank dresses are

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In simple terms, here are the 10 best items to purchase this May.

A selective fashion editor's list of items to buy.