I'm a shopping expert with a passion for summer—here are 8 must-have trending items for every wardrobe this year.
Although we may still be in spring, summer 2026 feels like it has officially commenced. 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 fully on display. Short shorts, open-toe sandals, and airy cotton dresses are being worn frequently. While I appreciate all seasons and enjoy that autumn and winter allow for more layering (and thus more clothing), it's undeniable that summer is the most enjoyable season for dressing. This year has seen a noticeable shift in fashion trends. A new wave of luxury designers showcased in the spring/summer 2026 collections last September during fashion month has led to a fresh perspective, resulting in a vibrant, colour-rich maximalist summer. Although summer typically feels a bit bolder and more colourful, the gradual move away from quiet luxury has encouraged us to embrace more playful options in our warm-weather attire. It's not just about colour—there are new aesthetics, accessories, and microtrends brimming with personality as well. If you're looking to refresh your seasonal wardrobe, here are 8 essential pieces to consider for your summer starter pack.
8 Essential Items For Your Summer Wardrobe
1. A White Cotton Dress
Style Notes: Nothing embodies summer quite like a light white dress. Whether it's silk, mini with lace trims, maxi and cotton, or featuring some broderie anglaise details, every wardrobe needs at least one.
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COS
Tiered Gathered Midi Dress
With Nothing Underneath
Blenheim Dress: Linen, White
This low V-neck design is incredibly chic.
Doen
Marianne Shirred Organic Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress
Dôen excels at summer staples.
2. Oversized Round Sunglasses
Style Notes: Last year was all about the tiny Miu Miu reader-style shades, but this year, the trend is for oversized round sunglasses. Think of the 60s and 70s styles of Mia Farrow, Twiggy, and Edie Sedgwick. While elite influencers opt for the Celine versions, excellent alternatives can also be found at Jimmy Fairly, Prada, and Chloe.
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PRADA EYEWEAR
Round-Frame Acetate Sunglasses
These are the ones worn by Christy Tyler here.
Jimmy Fairly
The Bora Jf Colors
I love how light the lenses are here.
3. Board Shorts
Style Notes: You might find it hard to believe, but board shorts from the Y2K era are making a comeback. Picture the peak Blue Crush era—these surfer girl-style shorts are ideal with shell necklaces, Havaianas, and a long-haired, sea-salt-sprayed boyfriend who describes big waves as "gnarly."
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Free People
Rhythm Board Short
These have a great length for the leg.
Made Some Sportswear
Short Shorts
I adore this bold blue shade.
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 summer wedding you attend, the best-dressed guest will be sporting a pouch bag as a clutch. I've seen various styles, from silk adorned with beads to drawstring tops or simple fold-over straps, and some even feature sequins or fringe embellishments. Regardless, this accessory radiates chicness.
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Rixo
Zenni Embellished Silk Bag in Ivory Shell
The mother-of-pearl shell is my favourite microtrend for summer 2026.
Free People
Beaded Tassel Pouch
5. The Broderie Boho Blouse
Style Notes: The broderie boho blouse is the little sister of the little white dress. Lightweight, slightly frilly or embroidered, and incredibly pretty, it's a staple that pairs beautifully with jeans, shorts, or a slip dress.
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H&M
Broderie Anglaise Cotton Blouse
Such a great price, it looks far more luxurious than it is.
Balzac Paris
Willa Natural White Top
Balzac creates the cutest separates with French girl vibes.
Sezane
Camelia Shirt - Ecru With Blue Embroidery
I'm a fan of the embroidery detail on this one.
6. Comfortable Gym Wear
Style Notes: High-quality workout wear that I feel confident in is a must for me during summer. I may not consider myself a fitness enthusiast, but my gym gear is always the first thing I pack when traveling. While there are several leading brands, Lululemon remains my all-time favourite. Their Align Foldover joggers are perfect for the airport, and I wear their capri leggings well beyond the gym.
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lululemon
Lululemon Align™ High-Rise
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