The Essential List of Summer Clothes You’ll Wear On Repeat

Nothing says summer like hanging up fresh new pieces in your closet. You’ll always have your staples like crisp whites, lightweight linens, and pretty patterns, but longer hemlines, softer prints, and sporty streetwear are taking over this season. Here’s a complete guide to the emerging trends and essential summer clothes you won’t be able to live without. Okay, that may be a tad dramatic, but seriously, they’re that good.

Bike Shorts

Honestly, we should just stop right here (but we won’t). Bike shorts are the #1 must-have piece of the season and for good reason. They’re easily the most versatile piece you could add to your summer wardrobe. Sure, you can style them with a t-shirt and a denim jacket, but you can also pair them with a flowy tunic or oversized button-up for a more elevated (but equally fashion-forward) look.

Animal Print

If you’re not already, you’re about to become an animal print addict. This summer, all (cat) eyes are on all of the amazing variations of leopard print. Spotted in the urban jungle plastered practically on everything under the sun–skirts, shoes, tops, dresses– it’s safe to say that any leopard printed piece you invest in will be on frequent rotation until fall. No matter how you decide to walk on the wild side, this fierce feline pattern just might become your new favorite neutral.

Athleisure Sets

Matching sets are no longer just for hitting the gym. It’s an effortless outfit formula (seriously, it doesn’t get much easier than this) that looks insanely chic and hits peak comfort level. Having a coordinating set handy in your closet ensures packing for all of your summer vacays is a breeze. It’s a cozy travel outfit and you can mix and match the individual pieces with other items in your carry on once you’ve arrived.

Bermuda Shorts

See ya later, short shorts. Sensible shorts are a fuss-free trend that just so happens to be, well, everywhere this summer. The longer length might seem intimidating for those on the shorter side, but you can easily cuff them to customize the length to your height. Full disclosure: you may be tempted to play Kokomo by the Beach Boys every time you wear them (Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama…).

Midi Length

Shorts aren’t the only item getting a little extra length this season. Dresses and skirts in a midi length are taking over both in street style and formal wear. Whether you have a wedding (or 10) coming up or a beachside vacation, reach for a midi instead of a maxi or a mini. You won’t have to fuss over the perfect in-between length and you’ll look like you just borrowed an outfit from an Instagram influencer. Not to mention, the more conservative hemline makes it an office-friendly trend, too. We love a piece that does it all.

Statement Sleeves

Everything from one-shoulder tops and flutter sleeves to puffed shoulders and off-the-shoulder numbers is taking over this summer. It’s an easy way to take a familiar piece like a t-shirt or a tank and freshen it up. This romantic trend is perfectly suited for elevating your street style or adding a sassy element to your next night out. Rule of thumb: don’t be afraid to go a little bit extra. The bigger the statement, the better!

Vintage Florals

If you’ve heard it once, you’ve heard it a million times–florals are trending (and forever will be). There’s something inherently timeless about florals but we love the fresh new ways they’re constantly being reinvented. This season, it’s vintage-inspired prints that are taking over. Oversized tropical prints are being swapped for dainty bouquets and romantic florals for a softer take on this classic pattern. Try out pieces with roses, daisies or wildflowers on flowing silhouettes to totally nail the look.