As a shopping expert who loves summer, here are 8 trending pieces that every wardrobe should include this year.

      Though we might still be in spring technically, summer 2026 feels like it has officially arrived. We are currently experiencing the first heat wave of the year (let's hope it's not the last...) and as a result, our summer wardrobes are in full swing. Short shorts, open-toe sandals, and light cotton dresses are making a frequent appearance. While I appreciate all seasons, and enjoy the layering possibilities of autumn and winter (which means more clothing options), it's undeniable that summer brings the most joy when it comes to fashion.

      This year has seen a notable shift in the fashion landscape. The spring/summer 2026 collections, introduced last September during fashion month, bring a fresh perspective, resulting in a vibrant, color-rich maximalist summer. While summer often tends to be bolder and more colorful, a gradual move away from subtle luxury has inspired us to embrace a more carefree attitude towards our warm-weather attire. It's not only color that feels easier to wear this year—there are also new aesthetics, accessories, and microtrends bursting with personality. If you're looking to refresh your seasonal wardrobe, here are 8 items I suggest starting with.

      **8 Essential Items for Your Summer Wardrobe**

      1. **A White Cotton Dress**

      **Style Notes:** Nothing embodies summer like a light white dress. Whether it's silk, mini with lace trims, a maxi, or cotton with some broderie anglaise details, every wardrobe should include at least one.

      **Shop the Trend:**

      - **COS** - Tiered Gathered Midi Dress

      - **With Nothing Underneath** - Blenheim Dress: Linen, White (this low V-neck is so chic)

      - **Doen** - Marianne Shirred Organic Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress (nobody does summer staples quite like Dôen).

      2. **Gigantic Round Sunglasses**

      **Style Notes:** While last year was dominated by small Miu Miu reader-style shades, this year is all about oversized round sunglasses. Think ’60s and ’70s styles reminiscent of Mia Farrow, Twiggy, and Edie Sedgewick. While elite influencers have been spotted with Celine pairs, I've also found great options from Jimmy Fairly, Prada, and Chloe.

      **Shop the Trend:**

      - **PRADA EYEWEAR** - Round-Frame Acetate Sunglasses (as worn by Christy Tyler)

      - **Jimmy Fairly** - The Bora Jf Colors (loving the light lens).

      3. **Board Shorts**

      **Style Notes:** You might not expect it, but the next Y2K trend making a comeback is board shorts. Think of the peak Blue Crush era, where they’re surfer girl-inspired, perfect for pairing with shell necklaces, Havaianas, and a long-haired, sea-salt-sprayed boyfriend who describes big waves as "gnarly."

      **Shop the Trend:**

      - **Free People** - Rhythm Board Short (a good length on the leg)

      - **Made Some Sportswear** - Short Shorts (loving this bold blue hue)

      - **Free People** - Surfs Up Board Shorts (the tropical flower is essential to this trend).

      4. **The Pouch Bag**

      **Style Notes:** Mark my words, at every wedding you attend this summer, the best-dressed guest will be carrying a pouch bag as a clutch. There are various designs available, from silk with bead adornments to drawstring tops and simple fold-over straps, some even embellished with sequins or fringe. Regardless, this accessory exudes "chic, chic, chic."

      **Shop the Trend:**

      - **Rixo** - Zenni Embellished Silk Bag in Ivory Shell (my favorite summer 2026 microtrend)

      - **Free People** - Beaded Tassel Pouch.

      5. **The Broderie Boho Blouse**

      **Style Notes:** The little sister to the little white dress is the broderie boho blouse. Lightweight, slightly frilly or embroidered, and incredibly pretty, it pairs beautifully with jeans, shorts, or a slip dress.

      **Shop the Trend:**

      - **H&M** - Broderie Anglaise Cotton Blouse (an excellent price for a piece that looks much more expensive).

      - **Balzac Paris** - Willa Natural White Top (Balzac creates the cutest French girl-inspired separates).

      - **Sezane** - Camelia Shirt - Ecru With Blue Embroidery (adoring the embroidery here).

      6. **Feel-Good Gym Kit**

      **Style Notes:** Quality workout wear that makes me feel confident yet performs well is essential in summer. Although I wouldn’t label myself a 'fitness freak,' my athletic gear is the first thing I pack for a holiday. One brand I always rave about is Lulule