As a former buyer for Nordstrom, here are 9 pieces I’ll be incorporating into my stylish summer outfits.
Susie Wright is adept at putting together stylish outfits. With decades of experience as a Nordstrom buyer, she shares desirable looks on her social media platforms (including over 700k Instagram followers) and her highly popular website, So Susie. For summer 2026, she has pinpointed nine essential items to use for crafting her stylish ensembles. Below is Wright's selection of summer 2026 essentials, featuring everything from the sandals she'll be sporting throughout the season to the charming top that pairs perfectly with shorts and skirts, including some elevated basics. Keep reading for additional insights, along with visual styling ideas from Wright.
9 Summer Essentials, as Recommended by a Former Nordstrom Buyer
**Drawstring Pants**
On Wright: Aritzia pants
"The drawstring pant is the summer item you'll wear repeatedly. With its laid-back fit, comfort, and style, it has become one of my warm-weather favorites."
**Open Edit**
Linen Blend Wide Leg Pants
**Tna**
Charleston Linen Pants
**Pistola**
Theo Cotton Drawstring Pants
**Flip-Flops**
On Wright: Madewell skirt; Agolde tank; Christopher Esber flip-flops
"A simple flip-flop feels just right for this summer. Whether you opt for a jelly style or classic Havaianas, it adds an effortlessly chic finishing touch to any outfit."
**TKEES**
Aqua Waterproof Flip Flops
**Havaianas**
Slim Square Flip Flops
**Open Edit**
Tori Kitten Heel Sandals
**Reformation**
Jessie Thong Sandals
**Polo Tops**
On Wright: Frame top and jeans
"Polo tops are trending, and it's easy to understand why. With appearances on runways like Chanel and Celine, they're now a summer wardrobe essential. Pair it with jeans, a skirt, anything—it's simple and chic."
**FRAME**
The Stripe Stretch Linen Polo Top
**WILSON**
Essex Mesh Stitch Polo Sweater
**ALIGNE**
Maiden Stripe Organic Cotton Polo
**MAUDE CLUB**
Frankie Stripe Stretch Cotton Polo
**Loose Light-Wash Denim**
On Wright: ASTR the Label jacket; Mother jeans
"Light-wash loose jeans are currently my favorite, and they feel perfect for summer."
**MOTHER**
Lemon Twist High Waist Wide Leg Jeans
**Bayeas**
Mid Rise Barrel Jeans
**H&M**
Baggy Low Waist Jeans
**AG**
Adria Low Rise Baggy Wide Leg Jeans
**Tassels**
On Wright: Anthropologie dress; J.Crew clutch; Gianvito Rossi sandals
"Tassel and fringe details are trending, and I'm in love. From bags to long necklaces and dresses, they add such a lovely touch. This Anthropologie tassel dress is already on my packing list for my trip to Europe next month."
**Celandine**
Asymmetrical Fringed T-Shirt Dress
**TALLER MARMO**
Tropical Sleeveless Tasseled Stretch-Satin Midi Dress
**ESCVDO**
Misti Tasseled Open-Knit Cotton Maxi Skirt
**Bright Blue**
On Wright: Simkhai dress
"If you want to stand out this summer, choose bright, bold colors. A vivid blue feels especially fresh and new right now."
**All in Favor**
Smocked Bodice Jersey Midi Dress
**AGOLDE**
Poppy Rib Organic Cotton Blend Tank
**COS**
Knitted Linen Cardigan
**Simkhai**
Arie Strapless Taffeta Bustier Midi Dress
**Midi Skirts**
On Wright: Vince cardigan and skirt
"I can't imagine a better summer staple than the midi skirt. The possibilities are endless—pair it with a simple tank and flat sandals, or dress it up more for evening. It's the ultimate summer piece."
**Vince**
Scallop-Detail Cotton Midi Skirt
**Topshop**
Lace Hem Cotton Maxi Skirt
**Halogen**
Pintuck Cotton Midi Skirt
**Open Edit**
Bubble Midi Skirt
**Woven Accessories**
On Wright: Madewell tote and dress
"Woven bags and sandals are my preferred way to add texture to a summer look. They’re incredibly versatile, stylish, and elevate any outfit."
**Madewell**
The Signature Woven Tote
**Open Edit**
Jaydin Block Heel Sandals
**COS**
Hand-Woven Market Tote in Straw
**Embroidery/Eyelets**
On Wright: Anthropologie skirt
"This lovely detail is appearing everywhere these days—from skirts to tops to denim—and I adore every version. It's delicate, attractive, and perfect for summer."
**Anthropologie**
The Colette Eyelet Midi Skirt
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As a former buyer for Nordstrom, here are 9 pieces I’ll be incorporating into my stylish summer outfits.
A previous buyer from Nordstrom claims that these nine items are essential for putting together fashionable summer outfits.