As temperatures start to rise and flowers start to bloom, it’s time to switch out those chunky sweaters for short sleeves!
With just one staple piece that works for you, you can create dozens of effortlessly stylish and affordable outfits for the season. Here’s five items to consider adding to your wardrobe this spring/summer and some of the chicest ways to style them.
Basic White Tee
While very simple, you can’t go wrong with a basic white tee. Whether it’s loose fit for a more casual outfit or slim fit, there’s endless ways to style one and make it your own.
For cooler days, consider pairing one with your favorite pair of jeans and accessorizing it with statement jewelry or a statement belt and a pair of sunglasses. According to Vogue resident commerce writer Laura Jackson, “There’s no closet combination quite like a while T-shirt and jeans.”
A way to style a basic white tee on a warmer day could be a pair of longline denim shorts and a button down or sweater vest.
For a less casual look, Jackson recommends adding pinstripe pants, ballerina flats, and a pair of gold hoops.
Cami Tank Top
According to Byrdie style writer Laura Lajiness Kapke, “The best camisole outfits are all about balance.”
One way to start out with styling camisoles is to start with a simple black one. Kapke says, “It pairs effortlessly with just about anything in your wardrobe.” Try throwing it on with a pair of 90s mid-raise jeans and gold statement earrings.
For an effortless summer look, try pairing a cotton cami with a high-rise A-line skirt or a sarong- style skirt, a pair of sandals, and accessories made from woven material.
If you’re looking to layer, try a cardigan, button down, or blazer for an elevated sleek look.
Maxi Skirt
A maxi skirt is absolutely a summer essential if you’re looking for an elegant and timeless look day or night.
Glamour special projects editor Ruhama Wolle recommends a monochromatic look, “A matching top and maxiskirt in the same tone elongates the body and makes you look instantly put-together, even if you just rolled out of bed.” Tuck your top in and add ballet flats or mules. For cooler or rainy days, throw on a cardigan or tailored coat.
If you want to rock a denim skirt, try it with a tucked-in or cropped top, sneakers, and consider layering a leather jacket on top. Boots also give a classy look or try throwing in a belt.
For any maxi skirt, you can’t go wrong with a classic white blouse, a strapless top, a fitted bodysuit, a flowy blouse, or a graphic tee.
High Boots
While sandals and flipflops are the most common foot attire associated with the warmer seasons, don’t let that scare you out of creating a polished and sharp look with tall boots.
Who What Wear fashion editor Remy Farrell recommends a white linen dress and brown knee-high boots for a western look.
If you’re looking for a perfect voguish outfit for concerts and festivals try a ruffled blouse and statement shorts and a pair of biker boots. According to Farrell, “I can’t think of an outfit better for festivals then this bohemian pairing.”
For days with a little less sunshine, throw on a jean jacket and slip skirt and a pair of leather knee high boots.
Try a sleeveless boat-neck top and a midi skirt with a pair of knee-high brown boots and a chunky belt for a sophisticated outfit.
Another classic look is a pair of straight leg jeans, and a white button-down blouse paired with black leather boots and statement jewelry.
Statement Belt
A good statement belt can dress up any outfit. With jeans, dresses, skirts, and more, a belt may be exactly what your favorite power outfit needs to tie it all together.
Who What Wear writer and editor Jasmine Fox-Suliaman says one of the most straightforward ways to style ways to style a statement belt is to, “Keep it simple.” She recommends a chunky cardigan, silk tank top, high-rise jeans, and flat sandals.
You can also use it to tailer oversized items. Consider putting a belt around a loose dress, oversized t-shirt, or baggy jeans.
Fox-Suliaman says, “Any belt can become a statement piece with creative styling.” Try varying the placement of the belt like below the waistline.
If you want your belt to really stand out, embrace contrast! Pair a colorful or contrasting belt with a black, white, or grey outfit to make it pop, for an example an all-white outfit with a brown or red belt.
Fashion trends go in and out, so while staying on trend is always heartening, remember to wear what you like and wear it with confidence.