15 Items You Need In Your Summer Closet 

Between all the travel outfit ideas and mirror selfies, it feels like it’s been ages since I sat down to share some basic styling advice with you all. Don’t fret, it’s not gone forever. I’ve had a lot of fun styling unique pieces throughout my trips, however, I’m headed back to my roots today to share fifteen items you need in your summer closet. 

And yes, I mean your summer closet—these are basic, everyday pieces that can truly be worn time and time again. If you’re on a budget or looking to build a wardrobe full of “just the essentials” (or both!) then you’ve come to the right place. Here are my top clothing recommendations of 2021. 

1) Basic Bodysuits: It’s 2021. If you haven’t added a bodysuit or two to your closet, what are you waiting for?! Anytime I find a favorite I grab it in both black and white. With these two basics, the outfit ideas are endless. I’m currently loving anything with a halter neckline (Y2K is so trendy right now!) so this Fashion Nova bodysuit was a must.

2) White Heels: I could go on and on about white shoes. No matter the season, I always have a pair on repeat. Come summertime, white heels are my go-to. These pair with everything—a two-piece set, dress, or even a bodysuit and jeans when headed out for drinks with the girls.

3) Satin Scarves: Silk scarves are hands down one of the most versatile pieces in the game. Wear these as a strapless top, tied around the neck halter style, in your hair, or on the strap of your favorite bag. There are endless ways to wear these timeless accessories.

4) Straight Leg Jeans: I’m usually a skinny jean or cropped flare kind of girl, but 2021 has brought all the straight leg jeans back in style. If you feel like this style swallows your petite frame, try pairing them with a fitted top and swap your sneakers out for a heeled shoe. This helps keep the outfit a bit more polished.

Want a bomb outfit for your next night out?! Throw all those summer essentials together and bam you’ve got the perfect outfit right in front of you. These jeans are an old favorite from Express and this bodysuit tucks seamlessly into them. I have it in two colors now and it truly goes with everything! To spice this outfit up a bit I reached for a silk scarf, tying it around my head. I’m not 100% sold on this but it sure was fun switching things up for a change!

Outfit Details— top: Fashion Nova, jeans: Express, scarf: Fashion Nova, heels: SheIn, earrings: SheIn, rings: Ana Luisa, bracelets: Ana Luisa

5) Seamless Tanks: As I said earlier, basic tops are essential—the more lengths the better. I personally feel that the best way to build a versatile summer wardrobe is by having a black and white version of both bodysuits, full-length tops, and something cropped. This seamless style is the best. Not only are these double lined so you can wear them without a bra, but they are a mix of polyester and spandex so they can be worn with sporty looks or for going out. Forever 21, SheIn, and Express are my favorite places to shop for these.

6) Mom Jean Shorts: Mom shorts are back and better than ever! I can’t complain—with a high waist these hit me at the most slimming spot + the longer inseam keeps any buttcheeks from being on display. Express is my favorite place to buy denim from—I’m wearing a 00 in all of their styles.

7) 3 PIeceCrossbody Bags: I’ve raved about these three-piece crossbody bags for months now and don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. I have this bag in several different colors and it’s truly the best—not only do these purses fit all of the essentials but they give your outfit just a touch of edginess. Plus, they are super convenient for travel (which I’ve been doing a ton of recently).

8) Platform Converse: You can’t go wrong with a pair of platform Converse. I have these in both black and white (shocker!) and they have been my go-to sneaker all summer long. These look awesome with sweat sets, tennis skirts, and even your everyday tank top and shorts. Trust me, they are worth every penny and will definitely be on repeat once returning back to school.

9) Frilly Socks: If you want to spice up your sneaker look, throw on a pair of frilly socks! I get mine from Forever 21 or SheIn and they add the sweetest, feminine touch to every outfit.

Again, throw all those pieces together and bam you’ve got the perfect look for your morning coffee run or trip to the mall. I have all of these pieces in several colors/washes and have been rotating them for weeks now. There are endless wasy to style them—I promise you’ve got a functional yet fashionable outfit all in one.

Outfit Details— top: Forever 21, shorts: Express, shoes: Converse, socks: Forever 21, purse: SheIn, earrings: SheIn, necklace: The Silver Heron, rings: Ana Luisa, bracelets: Ana Luisa

9) Two Piece Sets: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to maximize your closet, two-piece sets are the answer! These sets are an absolute necessity in my summer wardrobe—I’ll wear the pieces together for a dressier event, or separate to create even more outfits. These are especially helpful if you’re traveling with a carry-on this summer.

10) Strappy Sandals: I wear these gold lace-up sandals in just about every blog post. As much as I love heels in the summertime, sometimes a pair of flat sandals are just… necessary. Save your feet the pain but still look stylish with a pair of lace-ups. These will elongate the legs without giving you any blisters. I wear mine with shorts, skirts, and dresses and they never fail!

12) Straw Accessories: It wouldn’t be a Styled by summer without a few beachy-y accessories. Anything straw can be found on repeat in my summer closet. I have so many different totes, purses, and clutches and they all serve their different purposes. This one has adorable embroidery and some fun tassels along the bottom, giving every outfit a bohemian finish.

This black two-piece set is one of my favorite Princess Polly finds. I’ve worn this top a few times with denim shorts and this skirt with several other tops. And yet, the two look adorable together for a night out. By adding a pair of lace-up sandals and that straw clutch, this outfit is perfect for a dinner date by the water. I’m obsessed and will definitely be bringing this look on my next beach trip.

Outfit Details— set: Princess Polly, shoes: Express, purse: Katydid, earrings: SheIn, necklace: The Silver Heron, rigns: Ana Luisa, bracelets: Ana Luisa

Well, that’s a wrap for my summer 2021 wardrobe essentials. What pieces have been on repeat in your closet lately?! I’d love to hear in the comments below along with any other requests you may have for me. I’ve got back-to-school outfits coming your way next week… stay tuned!

With love, McKenz

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