15 Editor-Loved Summer Fashion Essentials to Buy Now and Wear All Season Long

Cuyana
Cuyana
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Daydreaming of outdoor parties, endless beach days, and sun-drenched dinner dates? Same. With temperatures slowly starting to warm up, we can feel summer on the horizon, and now is the perfect time to give our wardrobes the seasonal refresh they deserve. Between TikTok and a number of new shopping fads, we're predicting that this summer's biggest fashion trends will revolve around comfort — think easy-to-wear sandals, cheeky denim shorts, breathable summer dresses, and flattering swimsuits for any body type. Bold colors and animal prints will be a big theme, as showcased both on and off the runway. And unlike minimalist trends of summers past, this year it's all about being bolder and bigger with your fashion choices; say goodbye to tiny micro-bags and hello to oversize totes, for example.

Whether you prefer a statement dress or a pair of comfortable pants, there are plenty of cute options online right now that fit every style. That's why we used our shopping superpowers to bring you the ultimate guide for the best summer clothes to buy now, with pieces that come in a wide range of silhouettes, colors, and price points. This carefully curated list includes must haves that have been reviewed and loved by our own team of expert editors, so you can trust that each product is a worthwhile buy.

Ahead, shop our favorite trendy summer clothes — your closet (and vacation wardrobe) can thank us later.

— Additional reporting by Macy Cate Williams

Best T-Shirt For Summer
amazon.com

Best T-Shirt For Summer

Meladyan Solid Cotton Padded Shoulder T-Shirt ($23)

Of all the items worth adding to your closet, a classic T-shirt is arguably the most versatile buy. This white tee from Amazon is especially great because of its sleeveless silhouette, effortless fit, and padded shoulders, which elevate the piece with a little extra height (literally). Read why one of our editors called this tee the "perfect dupe" in our review of this bestselling Amazon T-shirt.

Editor Quote: "What I love most about this shirt is the quality. Sure, $20 might be expensive for a simple tee, but it's on the cheaper side for this trend. I was a little worried it wouldn't hold up well in the laundry; however, I'm pleased to report that my skepticism has been left unfounded. Not only has this shirt retained its shape after a few washes, but the shoulder pads are also intact." - Kelsey Mulvey, Former Contributing Editor

Best Sandals For Summer
amazon.com

Best Sandals For Summer

Dr. Martens Vegan Blaire Flatform Sandals ($72, originally $120)

Sandals for summer are kind of a no-brainer, but this season we're all in on the sporty sandal trend — with this style from Dr. Martens being at the top of our shopping wishlist. The cushioned shoes feature a strapped-in design that provides ample comfort and ensures the sandals won't slide off your feet — making them a great pair of comfortable walking shoes for any long travel days. One editor even dubbed them as being the perfect shoe for "summer-to-fall wear" in this review of the Dr. Martens Blaire Platform Sandals.

Editor Quote: "Whether you're pairing the chunky shoe with a vibrant sundress for a fresh, summer style or elevating a plaid-wrapped fall 'fit with a more breathable base, these Dr. Martens can go everywhere and pair with just about anything. The sandal has now become a permanent staple in my closet, worthy of wear in any season!" - Kyley Warren, Assistant Editor, Commerce

Best Dress For Summer
oldnavy.gap.com

Best Dress For Summer

Old Navy Short-Sleeve Shirt Dress ($40, originally $45)

From the airport to your next backyard barbecue party and beyond, this bright blue minidress is a style you can wear for it all. We love the piece's button-down silhouette, which makes it easy to dress up or down, depending on the occasion. Plus, there's just something so classic and chic about a shirtdress — as one POPSUGAR editor explained in a review of the Old Navy Short-Sleeve Shirtdress.

Editor Quote: "This dress is perfect for anyone looking for an easy and comfortable option with a relaxed fit. If you prefer a shirtdress with a length that falls between a mini and midi dress, this is it. It's a versatile basic that's especially useful if you're assembling a capsule wardrobe, seeing as it's a chameleon piece that can be dressed up or down." - Angela Elias, Contributing Writer, Commerce

Best Sunglasses For Summer
nordstrom.com

Best Sunglasses For Summer

Ray-Ban 58mm Aviator Sunglasses ($163)

Elevate even the most understated and trendy summer outfit with these statement shades. The sunglasses are fitted with polarized, sun-blocking lenses, which help to protect the eyes with another layer of UV protection. Learn more about why these cult-favorite sunglasses are an editor-loved style in this review of the Ray-Ban Aviator Sunglasses.

Editor Quote: "These are the sunglasses that look good on everyone for every occasion. They're polarized, so they actually protect from the sun, and they manage to be both sporty and polished. I wear them to work out, to run errands, to go out to eat, you name it, and they always look good. They're never out of place, and plus, I've never met someone who looks bad in them." - India Yaffe, Former Associate Editor, Commerce

Best Swimsuit For Summer
andieswim.com

Best Swimsuit For Summer

Andie Swim The Mykonos One-Piece ($98)

If you're in the market for a new swimsuit, you can't go wrong with a plunging style like this one from Andie — especially if you're hoping to shop out a piece that's equal parts stylish and comfortable. The top-rated one-piece swimsuit boasts dozens of reviews on the retailer's site, and shoppers rave about its curve-hugging silhouette and supportive framing around the bust. There's truly so much to love about this flattering swimsuit — as detailed in our review of the Andie One-Piece Swimsuit.

Editor Quote: "In 30 minutes of bobbing, doggy paddling, and splashing around in the pool, I never had to adjust the bottom half of my swimsuit — I normally end up having to pry sopping wet fabric from between my cheeks, but not with this swimsuit. I did have to adjust the top after my test swim, but it was nothing a little shift-and-wiggle couldn't fix. With so many well-placed details — and nothing ever popping out on top or below — The Mykonos is ready to be worn poolside in Greece (or New York)." - Angelica Wilson, Former Associate Editor, Fitness

Best Jewelry For Summer
frasiersterling.com

Best Jewelry For Summer

Frasier Sterling Custom Candy Shop Necklace ($66)

Bubbly, Y2K-inspired fashion is all the rage right now, hence why we can't stop shopping at Frasier Sterling. The internet-loved brand boasts a wide selection of whimsical jewelry pieces that range from heart-shaped earrings and chunky rings to rainbow-beaded styles like this candy shop-inspired accessory. Frasier Sterling has garnered a fan base that includes celebrities and POPSUGAR editors alike — read through our review of Frasier Sterling jewelry to learn more.

Editor Quote: "These jewelry pieces are perfect for anyone who wants to tap into the Y2K fashion trend on a budget. With bauble accents that range from strung-together pearls to customizable letter charms, Frasier Sterling's accessories are easy to dress up or down, so you can feel confident wearing them to the office, airport, post-work cocktail party, and beyond." - Kyley Warren, Assistant Editor, Commerce

Best Skirt For Summer
thereformation.com

Best Skirt For Summer

Reformation Bea Skirt ($148)

If you want a style that'll help you look polished and put together — even as you're rushing out the door — you can't go wrong with this breezy maxi skirt from Reformation. The piece has been a staple in the brand's inventory for years, and this particular style even features a fierce, cheetah print-inspired pattern all throughout. With a wide range of prints and sizes, this style is a consistent best-seller on Reformation's site — read through our review of the Bea Skirt to see why.

Editor Quote: "The versatile, high-waisted design is incredibly flattering and comfortable — the perfect combination. What's even better is that this skirt can easily be dressed up with a silky cami and heels, or made to be casual with a graphic tee and sneakers. It's a reliable piece you can use over and over again for years." - Macy Cate Williams, Former Content Director, Commerce

Best Tote Bag For Summer
cuyana.com

Best Tote Bag For Summer

Cuyana Easy Tote ($248)

We can't get enough of this large everyday tote bag from Cuyana. The chunky style is designed to fit all of the essentials and more with a soft frame that's perfect for carrying items like your laptop, wallet, emergency flats, travel makeup bag, and beyond. From celebrities like Meghan Markle and Jessica Alba to POPSUGAR's own editors, Cuyana has a wide array of fans who all seem equally obsessed with the label's bag selection; see why in our review of the Cuyana Easy Tote.

Editor Quote: "More than anything, I just love the timeless elegance of Cuyana's Easy Tote. The relaxed style boasts more of a squishy, breathable feel that's simple, stylish, and, best of all, subtle. Statement handbags and purses might be popular nowadays, but like most trends, it's difficult to predict whether they'll remain relevant in the next season. With the muted design of the Cuyana Easy Tote, I have no doubt that the bag will be a sophisticated and polished staple in my closet for years to come." - Kyley Warren, Assistant Editor, Commerce

Best Shorts For Summer
oldnavy.gap.com

Best Shorts For Summer

Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Taylor Linen-Blend Trouser Shorts ($37)

Whether you're getting dressed for graduation, girls' night out, or simply a backyard get-together with friends, these lavender-colored shorts are a style you can wear for it all. Besides the pant's divine purple coloring, we also adore the comfy short's deep side pockets, high-waisted silhouette, and relaxed fit, which would work beautifully with classic flats, or even everyday sneakers. One POPSUGAR editor loves the style so much, she said she now wants a pair in every color. Learn more about the high-waisted bottom in this review of the Old Navy Linen-Blend Shorts.

Editor Quote: "These linen-blend shorts are great for those looking for lightweight summer shorts suitable for both work and play. While denim shorts don't always lend themselves to a comfortable and professional fit, that's not the case with this versatile linen-blend silhouette: you can dress them up or down and, thus, save precious space in your closet in the process." - Marisa Petrarca, Contributing Editor, Commerce

Best Bucket Hat For Summer
revolve.com

Best Bucket Hat For Summer

Lack of Color Inca Bucket Hat ($149)

If you've yet to tap into Gen-Z's ever-evolving bucket hat trend, consider this your sign to finally play around with the fad. Unlike other summer-ready bucket hats, this woven style is elevated enough to be worn year-round, and would make an especially great accessory for the beach or pool. See why this woven bucket hat is perfect for the new season and so worth the splurge in our review of the Lack of Color Inca Bucket Hat.

Editor Quote: "If you've been wary of embracing the bucket hat trend (like me) or struggling to find a version that suits your face shape (also me), I can confirm that this accessory is the most failproof style to invest in. The piece boasts a universally flattering fit that not only looks great on everyone, but also provides ample shade coverage. It's the ultimate accessory to wear poolside or to a beach day." - Kyley Warren, Assistant Editor, Commerce

Best Bodysuit For Summer
amazon.com

Best Bodysuit For Summer

Mangopop Sleeveless Crew Neck Bodysuit ($21)

Bodysuits are among the biggest summer fashion trends that are predicted to be everywhere this season, which is why we can't wait to get our hands on this versatile (and affordable) everyday essential from Amazon. The retailer has no shortage of best-selling bodysuits, but this style is a particular favorite — read our review of the best Amazon bodysuits to see why.

Editor Quote: "To keep these bodysuits in the best shape possible, I typically wash them on delicate with like colors and hang them to dry. They've all held up great after numerous washes, which is an absolute must for me because I can occasionally be hard on my clothes." - Renee Rodriguez, Staff Writer and Social Producer

Best Earrings For Summer
jenny-bird.com

Best Earrings For Summer

Jenny Bird U-Link Earrings ($98)

Simplify your accessory rotation this summer and opt for delicate gold jewelry pieces like these hoops from Jenny Bird. One POPSUGAR editor called the classic earrings "100% worth the investment" in this review of Jenny Bird jewelry.

Editor Quote: "I have been wearing these pieces all summer long, several days a week, and there's absolutely no tarnish on them. My biggest frustration is when I buy what I think is a nice piece of jewelry, and then the shine or color starts to change after a few wears. This has absolutely not been the case with this necklace and earrings — they look as new as the day I received them." - Macy Cate Williams, Former Content Director, Commerce

Best Jeans For Summer
target.com

Best Jeans For Summer

Wild Fable Super-High Rise Distressed Straight Jeans ($25)

If you're looking for a breathable pair of jeans that you can wear all summer long and well into the fall, too, this denim style is your perfect match; read our review of the Target Super High-Rise Straight Leg Jeans.

Editor Quote: "I've been wearing these jeans for a few weeks now, and my favorite thing about them is probably how versatile they are. I've been pairing them with just about everything in my closet, and they're a winner every single time — they go perfectly with my favorite Amazon bodysuits, and the darker wash makes them great for dressing up or down." - Renee Rodriguez, Staff Writer and Social Producer

Best Shorts For Summer
freepeople.com

Best Shorts For Summer

FP Movement The Way Home Shorts ($30)

Come summertime, we want to be wearing as little as possible, which is precisely why these breathable and comfy shorts are such a great wardrobe investment. Read our review of the Free People The Way Home Shorts for more info.

Editor Quote: "But between the solid colors, colorblock patterns, and prints, there are more than a dozen colorways to choose from. This makes it easy to pick up a pair that will match with the rest of your activewear. I was also pleasantly surprised that the shorts have a bit of a sheen to them, making them just a tad more glamorous, IMHO." - Emilee Janitz, Former Contributor

Best Jacket For Summer
madewell.com

Best Jacket For Summer

Madewell The Oversized Trucker Jean Jacket ($138)

Whether you're layering it on top of a playful maxi dress or you are curating the perfect denim-on-denim look with a classic pair of jeans, this jean jacket is designed to go with everything in your wardrobe — as showcased in this review of Madewell's denim jackets.

Editor Quote: "This jacket is so well made, I know I'll wear it long beyond my usual one year mark. It comes in sizes XXS to 3X, so it's great for a variety of body types. My coworkers love it so much, two of them bought it for themselves. If you're on the hunt for a new denim staple, take my word for it and give this option a try." - Macy Cate Williams, Former Content Director, Commerce