If you struggle to put stylish outfits together each and every day, it probably boils down to one of two things. It’s either a lack of time (we get that!) OR lack of foundational wardrobe basics. These basics are essential to having a wardrobe that functions. And, it’s nearly impossible to get dressed without them. Which is why Erin talks about the importance of wardrobe basics all.the.time. Having those high-quality, versatile pieces that go with everything will transform your wardrobe. Just trust us! Summer is supposed to be easy-breezy, right? Erin discovered some elevated, luxe, and affordable (yes!) basics from a new-ish brand, and we couldn’t wait to share them! Add those in with her game-changing style tips and you’ll have the secret sauce for one stylish summer.
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Essential Summer Basics
#1) Casual White Button-down Shirt
Our first must-have basic for summer is this casual white button-down by Quince. Quince is a brand that’s relatively new to Erin and our team. It came across our radar when we were trying to find quality for-less options for some of Erin’s favorite and most-worn pieces. And wow, they did not disappoint! This top is so similar to the Rails Ellis button-down that is such a heavy hitter for Erin every spring/summer. But…it’s only $45! It’s made from organic cotton that is super soft, breathable, and lightweight. It runs a bit on the large side. Erin is wearing an XS and it still has a relaxed fit. It also comes in 6 other colors. You can wear this top SO many ways this summer. Here are 3 we love…
How To Style Casual White Button-down
1) With any shorts… including these denim shorts by Pistola. They have a super flattering fit, a bit of distressing and they’re the perfect wash for summer.
2) Wide leg jeans paired with this casual button-down puts a modern spin on a classic pairing. These Mother jeans have elongating front seams and a raw hem so if you’re petite, no worries, just cut them! At 5’4” Ern is wearing hers with a pair of heels.
3) A bit unexpected…you can even wear it as a swimsuit cover-up alone or paired with some cotton gauzy shorts. It’s classic and simple yet elevated…a wonderful combination.
#2) Dressy White Button-down
In addition to your casual white button-down, you need that dressy white button-down for summer too. This one is…wait for it…washable silk so it’s easy to care for. It’s lightweight, skims the body, and has some stretch to it. You know how silk can sometimes be too warm on the skin? Not this one. Erin says it feels so lovely on. It’s thermo-regulating so it won’t make you hot (a must for summer!). It comes in a bunch of colors, and it’s a great price point for silk at $70.
How To Style Dressy White Button-down
This silk top is elevated enough to wear with trousers to the office, but you can also wear it with jeans for a dinner date. You’ll see that Erin also likes to wear a lace cami underneath so the lace just peeks out when you leave a few of the buttons undone. Just an added dash of femininity or sexiness that further elevates this basic! Erin is wearing an XS so this top also runs a bit relaxed and roomy. This will be such a versatile piece in your summer wardrobe.
#3) Elevated Cotton Sweater
The next basic we wanted to show you for the spring/summer season is a neutral-colored cotton sweater. This fisherman sweater by Quince looks very similar to another high-end designer sweater Erin owns, but it’s a fraction of the price at $50. It’s 100% organic cotton, has a ribbed texture, is lightweight, and has a cropped length. Erin is wearing an XS. It’s that versatile layering piece you need for chilly evenings or just when you want some coverage without getting too hot.
Here are 3 ways you can style it…
How To Style Casual Cotton Sweater
1) Wear it with your favorite pair of jeans and sneakers. You can always wear a tank or tee underneath and wrap it around your shoulders or waist if you get warm.
2) The sweater also looks great paired with denim shorts. This would be the perfect outfit for running errands, sightseeing on vacation, or grabbing coffee with a friend.
3) If you wanted to dress it up, you could wear the sweater with a silk midi skirt. This skirt is also 100% washable silk just like the blouse in the previous look. Erin LOVED the feel, bias cut, and fit. She’d been on the hunt for the perfect flattering silk midi skirt and was thrilled to find this one! Since the sweater is cropped, it’s the perfect length with this skirt…no tucking necessary!
#4) Elevated Loungewear Set
An elevated matching set for summer travel, working from home, or running errands really is a must-have. You want something that you feel comfortable wearing around the house. But also chic enough that you feel confident wearing out for a casual lunch, to run out to the grocery store, or to grab the kids or grandkids from their activities. You want great-fitting quality pieces. This matching set is in the prettiest oatmeal heather color and is made of soft brushed jersey. It has a cropped hooded sweatshirt and jogger-style pants that Erin says feel exactly like cashmere. No joke! And you won’t believe the price…each piece is under $40. Just grab your sneakers, sunnies, and handbag and you’re good to go for the day.
#5) Everyday Summer Handbags
In most of these looks you probably noticed the luxe-looking leather handbags Erin is wearing. It’s nice to have both a smaller and larger neutral handbag to go with your summer outfits. You want something sophisticated, high quality, and functional for everything you’ll be doing this summer and these bags are just that. Let’s dive into some details about both…
Neutral Crossbody Bag
First, we have the woven convertible crossbody bag. It’s made of Italian leather and is SO lightweight. This was the only bag Erin brought on her trip to Vietnam and China and she said it was like carrying paper. It has an adjustable strap (great for petites!) and you can wear it crossbody, as a shoulder bag, or remove the strap and use it as a clutch. The texture reminds her of a very high-end Bottega Venetta bag but it’s a great value at under $100.
If you’re interested in seeing everything Erin packed for her trip to Vietnam, make sure you check out this post next!
Neutral Leather Tote Bag
A few things stood out for Erin with this bag. For one, the weight. She could actually pick it up with her pinky finger! This would be a great work tote, mom bag, travel bag, etc. She also appreciated the minimal hardware and how sleek it is, which adds to its versatility. You definitely want your basics to have maximum versatility!
Do you have any fun plans this summer? We’d love to hear about it in the comments!
And, don’t forget if you are on the hunt for outfits to wear this summer, you’ll find 50 in this Lookbook. There’s an outfit for every occasion we could think of! Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest style updates, resources, and to get our blog posts delivered straight to your inbox.
