We can't overstate this enough — closet essentials are the best. Their inherent simplicity makes them so easy to wear, time and again, yet they never feel boring. Instead, they're completely inspiring — a sartorial blank canvas, if you will — and motivate us to think of new ways to style go-to pieces like tank tops, tees, and button-down shirts.
It's a year-round challenge we continuously embrace, and right now, we're focusing on summer formulas ranging from warm weather vacation outfits [1] to alluring date night combos [2]. So, if you're feeling effortless summer vibes the way are, scroll to discover five fashionable summer outfits centering around neutral wardrobe essentials.
The Essential Bodysuit
This Old Navy Sleeveless High-Neck Bodysuit [3] ($25) is the ultimate layering item to ground summer outfits without the headache of bunching fabric (we know you feel us). For a casual work outfit or effortlessly elevated dinner look, pair it with this Loulou Studio Naroi Silk-Twill Maxi Skirt [4] ($395) and Emme Parsons Laurie Sandal [5] ($395) — tonal accessories FTW.
The Essential Tube Top
Okay, this Old Navy Cropped Tube Top [6] ($15) may feel like more of a trend piece, but it's genuinely a perfectly minimal top for layering, especially in the heat. Go the slouchy tailoring route by teaming yours with this A.L.C. Naomi Linen Wide Leg Pant [7] ($325) and flat The Row White Avery Leather Sandals [8] ($805) — yes to summer whites!
The Essential Tank Top
You probably own dozens of simple tanks, but there's something about a more fitted silhouette that feels flawless every. single. time. This Old Navy Fitted Square-Neck Ultra-Cropped Rib-Knit Tank Top [9] ($10) is a clean and versatile version you'll probably want to own in multiples. It's so pretty with this romantic Hunter Bell Cooper Skirt [10] ($465) and summer-perfect Ines Bressand Croissant Raffia Shoulder Bag [11] ($360) — just picture this look in the south of France.
The Essential Oversized Poplin Shirt
From a nostalgia standpoint, a roomy button-down shirt is super essential, but it's legitimately one of the most timeless pieces you'll ever own, particularly in white. This Old Navy Oversized Poplin Boyfriend Shirt [12] ($37) is one of the best — it's made even better with another Y2K staple a.k.a. these Mother The Private Cargo Pants [13] ($300). This Leset Rio Bra Top [14] ($90) keeps things breezy in the heat, whether you wear your shirt fully open or buttoned down halfway.
The Essential T-Shirt
Okay, a white tee like this Old Navy Vintage T-Shirt [15] ($17) is maybe the most essential item ever — the vintage feel and easy loose fit? A total dream. Because of its ubiquity, we're all for jazzing it up via bold bottoms for summer. Enter: this colorful Alix Pinho Crocheted Cotton Mini Skirt [16] ($232) — it's seriously fun with a capital F. These Amanu Serengetti Sandals [17] ($275) are an immaculate neutral finish to keep the rest in the spotlight.