Unlike winter, the summer wardrobe is a blissfully carefree one filled with warm-weather outfits made up of breathablesummer dresses and lightweight linen sets. When it comes to summer accessories, we find ourselves welcoming equally delicate materials into the rotation: straw, raffia, and other woven fabrics. Nowhere are these fibers put to better use than in the basket bag.
These top-handle bags are so chic and versatile that they can easily transition from the beach day to late-night cocktails. Likewise, straw tote bags are the perfect picture of vacation-oriented laissez-faire, though, in the right silhouette, they can serve practical purposes in a city setting, too. Bearing all of this in mind, we set about rounding up summer 2024’s best basket bags and straw purses, delighted to find them in every conceivable shape and size. From oversized totes and mini bucket bags to crossbody bags, the woven confections of 2024 are ready to accompany you on any adventures you have planned this season.
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
Super Sale Alert:Score a host of great deals at Skims fortheir “Fits Everybody” Memorial Day sale: best selling bodysuits down to $40, bralettes down to $25, and three-for-$36 on panties. No code required.
Editors’ note: This article was first published in May 2023.
When you think of Skims, your first thought may be of curve-hugging shapewear or effortlessly luxe lounge pieces that Kim herself lives in during her downtime (like that viral slip dress that took the internet by storm). Now, forget all of that — because while Skims is those things, it’s so much more. Namely, the brand has become our go-to for everyday basics that make up the foundation of almost all of our outfits; fashion staples so essential that we want to buy one in every color.
The latest (and perhaps greatest) addition? The classic tank, but made with a Skims twist. Say hello to the Cotton Rib Tank, $38 (also available in a mock neck style). It may look rather unassuming, but don’t be fooled — this tank alone has a 4.7 out of 5-star rating and 3,420 reviews raving about its flattering fit and comfort. In fact, it’s so popular, it keeps selling out, warranting a restock and a whole host of new, limited edition colorways (it’s now available in a total of 11 shades, ranging from heather gray and khaki green to vibrant daffodil yellow. Plus one pretty floral print this writer has her eye on…). With Skims’ Memorial Day ‘It Fits Everybody’ sale having already kicked off early, what better time to stock up on all the basics?
To find out whether the hype is valid and to put Skims’ Cotton Rib Tank through the required paces, the R29 shopping team hand-picked styles from Skims’ Cotton Collection to wear-test in our respective cities. We’re a savvy bunch when it comes to testing products — not to mention, would make a killing as freelance models, just saying — and were thoroughly impressed with how versatile the styles were.
As you’ll see in the fit pics below, we all put our own styling spin on Skims (say that five times fast!) and spoiler alert, proved that the tank styles don’t just work, but slay, on all shapes and sizes (this tank is available in sizes ranging from XXS to 4X). Ahead, peruse our real-deal reviews of both popular tank styles, the classic Cotton Rib Tank and its mock-necked cousin, the Cotton Jersey Mock Neck Tank . Hot Girl Skims Summer? Forecast says yes.
“This was my first Skims piece, and I’d heard only excellent things about the brand (which frequently sells out), so I did have lofty expectations. Luckily, my expectations were pretty much met. I was looking for a cropped tank that I could just as easily pair with my high-waisted leggings out and about for errands as jeans or a skirt for a dinner out. The Cotton Rib Tank in a neutral grey-green-blue fit the bill perfectly. I especially love the scoop neck, which is super flattering on me. Seriously, I don’t know what kind of magic is in this tank’s fabric, but it acted as a push-up bra, giving me the illusion of boobs that I don’t actually possess.
I ordered a size small, which I was worried would be too small, but as I was told, the fabric is supppper stretchy and skimmed (lol) over my body. My only complaint is that it’s a little too cropped on my torso (I have loose stomach skin that I prefer a bit more covered), but I am 5’8″ so on someone shorter, it’d probably be just right. Other than that, it made me feel cute and flirty, and I can’t wait to see what else I can pair this versatile neutral with this summer (shortalls? wide-legged linen pants? the list of summer style options is endless).” — Charlotte Lewis, former Sexual Wellness Content Producer/Writer
“Here you can find me channeling Hilary Duff circa 2004 in A Cinderella Story. As soon as I saw this unique faded blue shade, I immediately tied it to her character’s cool girl style and muted color palette. And so I went with it, going for a hot girl walk in my new tank. I love the ribbed fabric and how it has the slightest bit of compression and support to keep me feeling and looking put together. It’s also thick enough that my bra lines don’t show through it, which is a constant struggle I face. I really have no complaints. It’s super comfortable, super cute, and I never thought a tank top could make me feel confident, but this one definitely did.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Affiliate Writer
“This tank is going to be my ultimate summer go-to. The fabric is so soft I can wear it everywhere, from lounging at my apartment on my WFH days to spending a day out with my friends in Manhattan. It’s also so light that I can see myself wearing it all summer long without overheating, even on those undeniably sticky NYC days. I wear an XL, which is my usual size, and this fit perfectly. The fit is a little snug (which is normally not my vibe) but it’s so soft and comfy that I don’t mind at all. In terms of style, it’s super versatile, too — it’s a little cropped, so I love wearing it with high-waisted jeans and shorts. I got it inlight grey, but it’s become such a staple for me that I even bought another one after receiving this one.— Mercedes Viera, former Associate Deals Writer
“I’m not a diehard Kardashi-fan, but I am a diehard fan of Skims. The shaping undies are a personal staple for dressy occasions but are still comfortable enough for me to eat and drink as I wish. Now, you read it here first: I’m forecasting this as the summer of the tiny tank top. I already own a couple of cropped tanks that I love, but this one has skyrocketed to front-of-drawer status. As my colleagues have noted, it looked comically teeny out of the bag but stretched easily to accommodate my torso, boobs, and all. (I’m wearing an XS.)
I’m obsessed with the off-white, vanilla colorway, which feels so effortlessly cool and sexy. The fabric is a tiny bit sheer, which I personally love, but plan accordingly if you want to wear a bra. The length hits me right at my waist, and I loved pairing it with my favorite dark denim shorts. (BTW, I’m planning on copping the black one to wear with white shorts this summer — swoon!) Kimberly, you’ve done it again.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
“This top is 100% going into my wardrobe hall of fame — meaning, you’ll see me wearing year round with all kinds of outfits. It’s stretchy without being loose, and I love how it highlights my shoulders. You’ll see me wearing it casually to the grocery store or dressing it up with some statement jewelry for nights out. Regardless, it’s definitely worth adding to your cart.” — Alexandra Polk, former Lifestyle Affiliate Writer
“I’ve been into tank tops ever since Bottega Veneta sent a model down the runway wearing one with blue jeans for their fall 2022 collection. And the reality is that there are few that are affordable and good quality. This Skims ribbed tank top is super soft and comfy, made from a stretchy material that really adapts to my body shape. Although the color is not what I anticipated — it has a hint of green in my eyes — I’d still wear it with everything from jeans and a blazer to a wide-leg pant (pictured above) for a weekend brunch.” —Frances Solá-Santiago, former Fashion Writer
“Tank tops are my summer staple, and this one fits the bill. From the color to the softness of the fabric, the stretch, and the little stitching at the hem, it is *chef’s kiss* levels of good. I’m wearing a medium, and think it’s pretty true to size, accommodating my bust and hitting exactly at my waist, as described on the website. The mineral colorway is also a very pretty, darker seafoam green that I loved against my skin! I can’t wait to wear this all summer long for a casual fit to keep me cool amidst the New York heat.” — Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator
“If there is one brand that knows how to design garments that hug and celebrate your curves, it’s Kim Kardashian’s Skims line. I picked the Cotton Rib Tank, a summer-ready staple and a great entry point for this much-hyped loungewear collection, and it did not disappoint. I was initially a bit worried about how tiny it appeared: I ordered a size medium, but it looked like a children’s top in its unworn state. But I’m so glad I trusted the process since the brand’s famous stretchiness came through as soon as I threw it on. The square neckline design suited my fuller chest area and managed to hide my bra straps (I’m quite adamant about them not showing) and revealed just a hint of cleavage. The fit around the waist was perfectly clingy without feeling too tight, and I like the cropped length, which worked on my shorter torso without creating a lot of bunched-up fabric.
The material was as comfortable as I had imagined and reminded me of a favorite tee that I’ve worn around the house since forever. I walked around NYC on a sweltering afternoon and it kept me nice and breezy, with no visible sweat stains. The contrasting stitching that comes with this steel blue colorway (Kyanite) was super unique, too. I’ll be wearing this fitted tank with my summer bottoms that have a breezy, flared silhouette, such as maxi skirts or culottes.” — Venus Wong, Senior Writer
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All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
Dearest gentle reader, we know you’ve been canceling plans to watch (and re-watch) Bridgerton Season 3 on Netflix, and we cannot blame you. From the oh-so-loveable and cheeky characters to the steamy romances and, of course, the swoon-worthy Regency-era fashion, Bridgerton is hands down the series of the summer. While part one of Season 3 premiered on May 16 to a global frenzy, fans have to wait until June 13 to see through Penelope and Colin’s (AKA Polin’s) slow-burning relationship arc. But fear not, readers, because that leaves just enough time to start sweeping up Bridgerton-esque styles to wear throughout the summer.
And luckily for us all, several summer 2024 fashion trends are Bridgerton-coded, from full skirts and coquette chokers to Featherington Family-approved citrus colors. Read on to shop summer trends that mimic the styles worn on the beloved series, as well as ones that we think characters like Penelope or Eloise would wear today.
Summer 2024 Trend: Vibrant Citrus Colors
If you’re Team Penelope (hello, Lady Whistledown lovers) you can easily channel the character by wearing one of her signature colors: green, orange, and yellow. In fact, the entire Featherington family is fond of the citrus color palette, which is perfect for summer. According to our 2024 color trend report, “citron zest” and “orange creamsicle” are in, making it even easier to find these vibrant colors across clothing and accessories.
Since Penelope herself isn’t too keen on the true-yellow or chartreuse frocks she wears, we think she’d love a butter yellow style instead. Alternatively, if Penelope’s fashion arc of wearing deep gem tones like emerald green excites you this season, try out the “tropical teal” trend, which has also previously been spotted on Lady Kate Sharma.
Summer 2024 Trend: Soft Pastel Palettes
On the other end of the spectrum, we have the Bridgerton Family, who famously wear blush pinks, mint greens, Tiffany blues, and lavenders. This subtle and sweet color palette also goes hand in hand with several trending shades like “neutral pink,” “ice blue,” and the lavenders and lilacs seen throughout spring 2024 collections.
Find these colors across Bridgerton-esque clothing pieces like lace bustiers, floral-embroidered skirts, and bow-tied slip dresses. You can also spot the cool-toned colorways on many summer accessories, like the pleated bow-adorned clutch that we could see Daphne, Eloise, or Francesca holding today.
Summer 2024 Trend: Puff-Sleeve & Milkmaid Dresses
Nearly every character in the series dons the same Regency-era dress silhouette — a square or squoval neckline with cap or puff sleeves, and an empire waist that leads to a floor-length skirt. While you may not have a ball to attend this summer that calls for such extravagant dresses, you can implement the style in more subtle and casual ways.
Milkmaid dresses, for instance, are a current spring 2024 dress trend that we see gaining popularity into the hotter months. Their signature square necklines, bow fastenings, puff sleeves, and smocked or boned bodices are similar to those worn in the series. You could also slip into any elegant puff-sleeve dress or Bridgerton-inspired nap dress. And rather than heavy taffetas and floral brocades, opt for breezy linen or cotton styles in floral prints.
Summer 2024 Trend: Maxi & Full Skirts
Unless you’re trying to channel Queen Charlotte or Lady Danbury through full ballgown skirts, you can keep your cool (literally) in less voluminous (read: less intimidating) styles. Full skirts are defining 2024 according to the runways, so you can currently find several maxi skirts in summer-appropriate poplins and linens.
Take a note from 2023 and try a dramatic bubble skirt or up the volume with billowy A-line silhouettes and flowy tiered styles. Prefer something more subtle? Try a body-skimming maxi skirt in a fanciful floral print.
Summer 2024 Trend: Coquette Chokers
With coquette-style chokers having a moment, accessories are one of the easiest — and the most fun! — ways to dress like a Bridgerton character.
2024’s cutest trend, bows, aren’t going anywhere anytime soon, and the Bridgerton family agrees. Whether bows dangled from the characters’ headpieces or were tied around the neck, they made their much-appreciated appearances this season. You can find tons of ribbon- and bow-adorned jewelry pieces this season, but one of the most classic ways you can wear a bow is by tying it into your hair or pinning it to your dress, blouse, or summer blazer.
Beyond appearing on dresses, flowers found their way onto jewelry in the form of rosette pieces, including statement earrings and wrap-around chokers.
Summer 2024 Trend: Reticule Purses & Blossom Bags
The accessory possibilities don’t end there! As you build your Bridgerton-inspired wardrobe, you’ll want to pick out a purse (or two!) to complete your outfits. Opt for a modern take on the reticule purse, a pouch-like style fastened by a drawstring and featuring a long wristlet strap, for the evening.
Or, in keeping with the 2024 handbag trend of “blossom bags,” cart up a purse that’s either in the shape of a flower, features 3-D floral appliques, or comes in a bold floral print. But if you already have your favorite summer bag, consider going for a flower bag charm to hook on and sprout from it.
Shoes are rarely seen peeking from under gowns in Bridgerton but we can assume they’re wearing extremely uncomfortable heels. So we think if these high-society ladies were brought into the current century, they’d prefer slipping into a pair of trendy mesh ballet flats instead. The unique shoe trend has a feminine playfulness to it and can be just as dressy as a day heel.
Mesh socks are likewise trending, as are stocking socks as seen at Australian Fashion Week. This is yet another summer-friendly way to reinterpret Bridgerton style for modern times. Opt for frilly mesh socks that feature bows, pearls, or floral appliques for a whimsical touch to cap off your look.
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