Shopping Writer-Approved Summer Wardrobe Basics

I definitely have a good time shopping for clothing and accessories every season. However, while cleaning out my closet a couple of months ago to donate a few items, I noticed I still had a good handful of pieces that I’ve never even worn, some with tags still attached.

This time around, I’m making a conscious effort to shop more thoughtfully, so I decided to take a month and jot down all of my outfits to see what I actually wore. The results were eye-opening. It turned out that there were a handful of pieces that I ended up wearing over and over again. Whether I was running errands, having lunch with girlfriends, entertaining family, or heading out to a casual event, I was able to rewear these 13 styles to create so many different outfits, proving their elegance and adaptability. Take a look at my most worn items in the past month below.

Best Summer Wardrobe Basics

Halara Flex Wide-Leg Waffle Work Pants

These cozy pants feel like sweats, which is why I reach for them as often as possible. I love feeling comfy while still looking pulled together; this pair looks like traditional wide-leg trousers and even have button loops and side pockets, but they feel good enough to lounge around in. They’re a work-from-home must-have in my book.

Old Navy Sleeveless Mini Swing Dress

I’m embracing dresses this season, starting with this mini number. There’s just something so timeless and fun about a swing dress. Over the last few weeks, I’ve typically thrown this on with some Mary Jane flats and a denim jacket or with an open-knit cardigan. Better yet, most of the color options are also available in tall, regular, and petite lengths.

Amazon Essentials Mid-Rise Khaki Short

Denim shorts just seem stiff and restrictive, so I prefer a similar cut with more flexibility and color. These shorts happen to be the perfect length and are available in curvy and straight fits. They have a subtle, casual vibe that makes them essential for laid-back lunches with my husband or friends and running errands. I’ve paired them with a solid bodysuit or an oversized button-down blouse and sandals this past month.

Old Navy Waist-Defined Crinkle Gauze Romper

I’ve had one too many early morning events planned out these last few weekends, and this romper has been a lifesaver. It’s the easiest one-and-done piece I currently own. Even though it may seem like an unlikely pairing, I’ve dressed this one-piece up with heels and platform wedges without a hitch.

Keep scrolling to see a few other pieces that I couldn’t stop wearing this past month.

Sampeel Two-Piece Matching Set

Spanx SpanxShape Get Moving Contour Rib Mock Neck Tank

Aerie Sneak Peek Tank Top

DKNY Jeans Open-Stitch Cardigan

Banana Republic Factory Ribbed Button-Up Tank

Aerie Crochet Quarter Zip Sweater

Gap Linen-Blend Midi Skirt

Levi’s Ribcage Straight Full-Length Jeans

Quince Second Skin High Neck Bodysuit