So, apparently Memorial Day is the official start to summer, which is why I thought it would be the perfect day to publish this particular post. Then, I didn’t. (Cool story, I know.) Now, today is allegedly the summer solstice which is another “start” to summer and also the longest day of the year. Well, thank goodness it is the longest day of the year, because I will be at work for-ev-er this evening getting ready for our last high school football camp of the season (insert praise emoji hands here)!
Honestly, I’m just ready for my summer to start, and while I wait for my days of rose’ and fun activities outside of the office, I am thinking of all of the outfits I can put together. Bright colors, florals and neons are all just a few of my favorite things, and the rest make up my must-have summer style staples.
THE SUMMER ‘IT’ BAG
How can you not think about summer when you see this wooden Cult Gaia bag? It was made for the season and goes perfectly with any summertime outfit. Wear this unique bag in the afternoon paired with a romper and sandals and it also makes the perfect accessory for a night out complimented with heels and a fun, floral dress. For reference, this is a size small.
WEAR EVERYWHERE SUNGLASSES
I am a big fan of wearing sunglasses at all times possible. I wish it was socially acceptable to wear them indoors, at the office and everywhere in between. They are also my No. 1 makeup tip – no makeup, just big sunglasses. I love this pair of rose gold circle Ray-Bans I bought this year and last year’s pink aviators are always a favorite too.
BRIGHT SANDALS
I went a little nuts with Sam Edelman’s spring and summer shoe collection. I just could not stop buying pair after pair. These bright pink block heels go with everything from jeans to party dresses and are also unbelievably comfortable. I also bought these yellow mules and have my eye on these blue heels too.
BONUS: These are all on sale NOW!
GRAB-AND-GO DRESS
This red and white striped piece is one of my favorite dresses for summer, because I can easily transition it from day to night wearing it all day long. I feel comfortable in it, it’s easy to pack and it goes with all of the summertime American holidays – Memorial Day, July 4th and Labor Day. Find the one dress that you know you will be able to count on all summer long and wear her out!
STATEMENT NECKLACE
Statement necklaces are so much fun to wear, but this summer you need to find the one that goes with everything. It’s the necklace that you reach for to put together any outfit. Turquoise is my numero uno because it pairs with literally any color, outfit or person. Having a staple statement necklace on hand can make any casual summertime outfit look a little more polished if you need to step it up a notch. I wear this turquoise necklace from Kendra Scott on repeat and don’t plan to stop anytime soon.
COLORFUL SCARF
I am in love with scarves and how they can transform an outfit instantly. Whether you wear it in your hair, around your neck or add it to your purse, a bright scarf can take your outfit to the next level. It also makes me feel like a total French girl (and who doesn’t want to feel that cool?). This floral scarf from J. Crew is one of my favorite prints I have seen so far this summer, and I instantly had to get it and wear it all three ways!
TASSELS + RUFFLES
Last year, tassels were totally a summer trend and they have now met their new BFF, ruffles. Wear them separately or together as a team and your outfit is just plain ol’ fun. This pinata tassel earrings are too much fun to wear when you’re flipping your hair, and I have serious crush on any type of ruffle-sleeved top.
Clearly you can see how these items made my summer style staples list, because I am constantly wearing them. They are my go-to pieces, and since they are so versatile, you don’t have to worry about investing in a ton of new items for the summer. Also, most of these pieces are now on sale, which makes buying them even sweeter. Re-wear, re-use and recycle the things you love.
What are some of your favorite accessories for the summer? Even though I have nailed mine down, I always have room for a few extras.
