Style, Wardrobe

Best Wardrobe Items, Summer Edition

I’m working on compiling a list of “most valuable wardrobe” pieces for each season, and as we’re in summer, I wanted to kick off now! I have already shared my summer wardrobe staples, but I have ten specific items I find myself reaching for again and again throughout the summer. I’ve included links to each item, or where you can track down a similar one if my exact item is no longer available.


Needlepoint slippers

I am actually not a big sandals-in-summer person, so I try to find summery shoes that aren’t necessarily sandals. I love my smoking slippers–both from Stubbs and Zalo*, a brand I was so happy to see revived recently! Needlepoint slippers are an easy and comfortable way to feel summery if you’re not in the mood to wear sandals.


My Bermuda bag

I inherited my Bermuda bag from my grandmother, who purchased it at Trimingham’s in Hamilton. While Trimingham’s went out of business, you can find vintage Bermuda bags on Etsy*, or new versions at Mark & Graham. I love the Bermuda bag because it’s a more unique look than other summer bags, you can generally change the cover to match your outfit, and it has a handle instead of just being a clutch. I use mine around town during the week, and tuck it into my city bag so that I don’t have to lug a tote with me when I run out to get lunch!


White jeans

I went from someone who rarely wore white jeans to someone who wears them multiple times a week. All it took was the right pair! I was really surprised by the quality of this pair* from Old Navy. The pockets are lined with a nude-colored fabric, so they are not visible; the denim is thick but not stiff; the legs are straight but not too roomy or skinny. Plus, they are only $35–a huge win in my book. I don’t want to invest heavily in something that will likely get stained or may not last the season, so these are a great purchase for me. You can see how I styled them here!


Boyfriend shirt

I spend as much time as I can at the beach during the summer, and I love using my boyfriend shirt as a coverup. It also works as a “real” shirt when I want to feel a bit more pulled-together, and it can really take me anywhere from the beach to the office without missing a beat. It’s a great purchase, and right now several patterns are on sale at Ann Mashburn!


Bay by Merryn Sweater

I bought this sweater just at the end of spring, and I can’t tell you how many times I’ve worn it since. The quality is incredible and I love the details at the cuff and placket that really set it apart. We try to go to the beach early in the morning, and it’s still occasionally cool–I take every opportunity to pull this sweater out and wear it as well. You can see how I’ve styled this sweater here. I can’t wait to see Merryn’s fall collection!


Alice Walk tee

I’ve been living in my Alice Walk tee* this summer (I have it in white, which is not currently available.) Somehow I haven’t gotten around to posting about it here on the blog, but it was a great purchase! I sized up for a slightly looser fit, but they have since updated their sizing, so I would suggest purchasing your usual size if you’d like a slightly looser fit. I love the soft fabric and the shape of the shirt–I’ll definitely be purchasing in additional colors.


Krewe sunglasses

I love my Krewe sunglasses*, which I purchased nearly a decade ago and have worn daily since. They are a super-sturdy pair of sunglasses, and they offer a free replacement if you break or lose a pair! My style is “The Fly,” which is no longer available–so fingers crossed I never lose or break my pair!


Bensimon tennis shoes

Okay, I am generally a Tretorn girl, but unfortunately I was sent the wrong size of tennis shoes and didn’t realize it until the return period had passed. I’d purchased a pair of Bensimons a few years ago to wear with dresses, but never got the nerve to do so before this summer. I love them. They have a low profile and are extremely comfortable with and without socks, and on and off the court.


Liberty of London blouse

I bought the Liberty of London blouse pictured at Uniqlo the last time I was in London and I never wore it until this summer! However, it’s been making a weekly appearance. I love linen in the summer, and this pattern is lovely. You can find a similar pattern at J. Crew right now.


J. Crew white tee

My favorite short-sleeved tee is finally back in stock! I purchase a few every year and they are great for layering or on their own.


What are your summer wardrobe MVPs?


As always, affiliate links are marked with an asterisk. I only link to items I own and love! Thank you for supporting Fewer & Better.

2 thoughts on “Best Wardrobe Items, Summer Edition

  1. This is a great list! I’ve had my eye on an Alice Walk tee for a couple weeks and have been wondering whether to size up. Thanks for the helpful info!

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