The Affordable Summer Trends Giving Our Style Editors a Reason to Dress Up and Feel Good

"The ribbed-tank trend has almost completely taken over my social media feed lately, and I love that this one comes in multiple colors and sell for just $10 a pop. Tucked into paper-bag shorts, it looks especially elevated and chic. And while it's already a comfy outfit, these versatile slides make it that much more appealing. They can be worn with everything from a dress to a pair of jeans, and they always add an element of effortlessness.

"It's a look I can easily see myself wearing all season long whether I'm running errands or having a socially distanced meet-up with friends. The layers of gold chains are the perfect finishing touch, and as I'm trying my best to keep hydrated this summer, a sleek silver water bottle is something I won't be leaving home without!" — Kathleen Harper, associate style editor

"I'm not going to lie. Back in March when staying at home became the norm, I was all about wearing leggings and a T-shirt every day. But by the time June rolled around, I literally couldn't wait to break out my favorite summer skirts and dresses. Not only was I excited to mix up my new work-from-home uniform, but I discovered dresses are actually way more comfortable than constricting leggings. Cue my mini shopping spree.

"I stocked up on tons of patterned midi dresses and skirts hoping to inspire my summer from home. I particularly love a matching set. When you pair two pieces in the same print together (like this square-neck blouse and button-down skirt), you look instantly elevated. To complete your look, these orange flats are a fun way to add an unexpected pop of color. Meanwhile, stacks of bright jewelry (like these bracelets and rings) give any look an effortless summery vibe."

— Amanda Elser Murray, associate style director

"Anything voluminous and loose is so on trend right now, and thankfully all I want to be wearing in hot weather — and that includes resort shorts like this neutral pair. Since the shorts are so long and wide, you definitely need to balance them out with something fitted or cropped on top (like this button-down tank) and something with a heel on the bottom. These strappy sandals are a super versatile option to have on hand.

"To add a bit of edge, I love these gold ear cuffs, and a sleek crossbody will be the perfect accessory when I'm feeling comfortable enough to go out again. Normally, I'd wear an outfit like this to work or an evening event, but right now, date night at home will have to do. Bonus: resort shorts are so comfy!" — Stephanie Nguyen, style editor

"Spring 2020 may have introduced the house-dress trend, but I'm predicting summer is going to be all about the house jumpsuit. It's everything you love about the pajama-level comfy dresses, but in jumpsuit form: forgiving silhouettes made from linen or cotton, elastic or smocked detailing, and maybe even a print taken from traditional sleepwear.

"This jumpsuit has all of that and more, and works just as well on the sofa as it does for a picnic in the park or a bike ride around town. For a more elevated look, combine it with wedges and a coordinating belt bag. Cute accessories like sunglasses and an anklet help transition it even more for outdoors!" — Stephanie Nguyen, style editor

"Sundresses are my warm-weather go-to, and this smocked version is a blank canvas. With so many ways to style and wear it, I'll be keeping this dress in constant rotation all season long. I'm especially loving it in a monochrome look, which feels incredibly fresh when styled with sporty sneakers and gold-colored hoops. It's an outfit I can wear all day long while feeling comfortable and put-together.

"A white straw bag like this one screams summer and compliments the entire look. Meanwhile, a printed headband provides a fun dose of color and excitement." — Kathleen Harper, associate style editor