Do you ever stand in front of your closet on the first hot day of the season and suddenly forget how to get dressed? 

Same.

Every season comes with its own fashion dilemmas, and summer is no different. What dress will look chic but keep me cool? Which bag can actually do it all? Are there really shorts out there that aren't too short?

We rounded up some of the most common summer style questions and paired them with the pieces we're reaching for all season long.

Whether you're headed on vacation,  spending a weekend out east, or simply trying to survive a heat wave in style, consider this your summer cheat sheet. 

 

A SUMMER DRESS THAT DOES IT ALL

"I want a dress that's comfortable in the heat, easy to style, and can be dressed up or down"

A good summer outfit should look chic but feel effortless. If there's one piece that earns its spot in my summer wardrobe every year, it's a maxi dress. 

Maxi dresses instantly look put together without requiring much thought. Perfect for everything from weekend brunches, beach days, backyard barbecues, farmers markets, and even summer nights out.

The best part? One piece and you're done.

This season we're loving the Free People Sorrento Stroll Maxi in White.

Add jewelry and a beaded bag to dress it up for dinner at sunset, or throw on sandals and a tote for running errands in town. 

The best summer dresses don't sit in your closet waiting for a specific event—they become the piece you reach for again and again because they always feel right.

Look for: Lightweight cotton fabrics, breezy silhouettes, and neutral colors. 

 

 

A BAG TO TAKE FROM THE BEACH TO HAPPY HOUR

"I'm trying to say yes more this summer, so I need a bag that can work for back to back plans."

The dream summer bag is roomy enough for sunscreen and a good book—but still polished enough to carry to dinner afterward.

Woven totes and textured handbags feel seasonal without being overly beachy. They're roomy enough for your daily essentials but polished enough to pair with dresses, denim, and everything in between. 

The Coast Tote is practical for during the day, but still feels elevated when paired with a dress for sunset cocktails. We especially love this bag because it has a drawstring pouch, which keeps all of our essentials secure and organized throughout the day. 

Look for: Mid-size bags, raffia, woven carryalls. 

 

SHORTS THAT AREN'T TOO SHORT OR TOO LONG

"Every pair I try feels either too revealing or too oversized. Is there a more flattering in-between?"

The sweet spot this summer is a relaxed, vintage-inspired fit that offers a little more coverage without feeling too baggy. 

We love The Daze Knockout High Rise Short In Thrill Vintage .

They're long enough to feel comfortable, but still flattering and easy to style. The high-rise fit creates shape, while the relaxed leg opening gives them that effortless, lived-in feel.

Pair them with a bikini, basic tee, a breezy button-down, or a lightweight sweater for cooler evenings.

Basically, they're the shorts you'll reach for on repeat.

 

Style with: A white tee, sandals, and your favorite summer tote.

 

 

SUNGLASSES THAT GO WITH EVERY SUMMER OUTFIT

"If I'm investing in one pair, I need them to work with everything."

The best sunglasses aren't necessarily the trendiest pair—they're the ones you reach for every single day.

Think timeless shapes, versatile colors, and frames that complement everything from a bathing suit to your favorite summer dress.

We love these Aviator Sunglasses - they're one of those accessories that instantly make an outfit feel finished, even when you're keeping things simple. Available in blue, brown, orange, grey, and green, they can go with anything. 

The goal: A pair you'll wear on repeat and never get tired of

 

 

SHOP OUR SUMMER COLLECTION

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ON SUMMER STYLING 

What style of dress is the most versatile for summer?

A simple midi or maxi dress is hard to beat, and is appropriate for any occasion. Look for an easy silhouette in a lightweight fabric that can be styled casually with a sandal during the day or dressed up with a handbag for dinner. The best dresses are the ones you'll reach for again and again, no matter what's on the calendar.

What's the best bag for summer?

A woven tote or textured handbag is one of the most versatile summer accessories. It feels seasonal, pairs beautifully with dresses and denim, and has enough room for all your daily essentials. Plus, it instantly adds a little summer charm to any outfit while being neutral. Our personal favorites are the Camden Hobo, Rina Shoulder Bag, and Coast Tote. Shop all summer bags here.

How long should denim shorts be?

The perfect length comes down to personal preference, but we're loving the vintage look this season. The Liverpool High Rise Vintage Cut Off Shorts in Manhattan, The Free People Bettie Sailor Shorts in Vixen, and The Daze Knockout High Rise Short in Thrill Vintage hit that sweet spot with both a relaxed fit and a flattering high-rise. 

What are the easiest pieces to build a summer outfit around?

Start with the essentials: a long dress, basic tanks and tees, linen pants, button downs, and denim shorts. From there, add accessories like a tote, sunglasses, handbag, scarves, jewelry, or a lightweight sweater. Summer style is about layers and versatility. Shop our summer staples now!

How can I look put together in the heat?

Choose breathable fabrics, relaxed silhouettes, and pieces that are lightweight. A dress, a matching set, or linen pants paired with an elevated basic can make getting dressed feel easy while still looking polished.