Where to invest—and where to buy for less.

What I love most about summer style is its inherent ease. The best looks don’t ask for much—just sun-tanned skin, salt-soaked hair, and a swipe of pink blush. Whether you’re packing for a getaway or getting dressed for the day ahead, a thoughtful summer wardrobe makes everything feel as breezy as the season. Trends may come and go, but the foundation of great warm-weather style stays the same. Enter: these summer staples.

Feature image by Michelle Nash.

From airy linen sets to chic sun hats, these are the pieces that carry you from beach days to dinner dates with little effort. This season’s trends may lean into the playful—frilly dresses, wrap sandals, and statement accessories—but they’re also grounded in function and longevity. Best of all, you don’t have to splurge to build a thoughtful summer wardrobe. Each of these essentials is available at a range of price points and if you do decide to invest, you’ll find yourself reaching for them year after year.

Below, seven timeless summer staples that will earn the closet space—whether you’re saving or splurging.

The Raffia Bag

Summer’s favorite texture. Whether you opt for a clutch or an oversized tote, a raffia bag adds instant ease to any look. I’m partial to a larger option that doubles as a beach bag—you know, girl math. If you’re investing, look for real raffia. It wears beautifully over time and elevates even the simplest outfit.

To Splurge:

JENNI KAYNE Raffia Isla Bag

MANSUR GAVRIEL Mini Cloud Clutch

To Save:

COS Slouchy Tote Bag

Dolce Vita Hydra Clutch

The Frilly Sundress

Feminine without trying too hard, everyone needs a staple summer sundress. This season, look for midi-to-maxi lengths in light cotton or voile, with details like ruffles, tiers, or puffed sleeves. Think Doen-inspired silhouettes that go from market mornings to dinner without trying to hard.

To Splurge:

RIXO Edina Cotton Maxi Dress

DÔEN Ischia Dress

To Save:

Sunday Best Martine Poplin Maxi Dress

WAYF Nina Smocked Midi Dress

The Oversized Sunnies

A pair of oversized sunglasses is more than a finishing touch, it’s a personality piece. Go bold with frames that balance function and fun, and don’t be afraid of a little drama. They elevate everything from swimsuits to sundresses.

To Splurge:

Elisa Johnson Jane Sunglasses

Jimmy Fairly The Elma

To Save:

VANLINKER Oversized Retro Square Aviator Sunglasses

LE SPECS Cookie Tort Tragic Magic Sunglasses

The Wrap Around Sandals

Equal parts flattering and functional, wrap-around sandals are a suitcase staple. Their tie-up style feels fresh but timeless, and they pack flat, making them ideal for travel. Prioritize pairs with sturdy soles to ensure they hold up on cobblestone streets or long dinners on the patio.

To Splurge:

Margaux The Wrap Sandal

A.EMERY Heidi Sandal

To Save:

TKEES Square Toe Lilu

Everlane The Leather Crisscross Sandal

The Linen Set

Few things feel as effortless as linen. A matching set–button-down and shorts, or vest and pants is a one-and-done outfit that moves easily from errands to dinner al fresco. Breathable, timeless, and endlessly re-wearable. I like to think of my linen sets as a blank canvas for styling summer staples.

To Splurge:

Deiji Studios Oversized Organic Linen Set

Reformation Kristen Linen Two Piece

To Save:

J.Crew Lace-Trim Camisole and Short Set

Free People Carmen Set

The Sun Hat

Your SPF’s best friend. A great sun hat shields your face while adding shape and polish to a summer look. Opt for one that can pair with a swimsuit and a cotton dress. Versatility is key.

To Splurge:

Janessa Leone Colette Hat

Lack of Color The Inca Bucket

To Save:

Gigi Pip Jolie Boater Straw Hat

J.Crew Wide-Brim Raffia Bucket Hat

$66.50

The Statement Necklace

When the forecast reads 90 degrees, jewelry is the easiest way to add interest without layering on more clothes. Statement necklaces—whether they’re beads, pearls, paracord, or leather—make a simple outfit feel finished. Keep the rest minimal and let the necklace do the work.

To Splurge:

Lizzie Fortunato Sky Stone Necklace

Pointe Milou Le Disc Pearl Necklace

To Save:

ALV Gill Disc Necklace

ALV Stone on Suede Necklace

Which summer staples are you splurging on, and which are you saving?