The days are getting longer (and hotter) and call for summer-friendly styles that can withstand long seaside strolls, day-to-night festivities, and all your travel plans. From lightweight summer dresses and comfortable walking shoes to versatile tote bags, your summer wardrobe deserves a refresh full of fashionable and functional pieces. And we have just the ones for you.
We’ve been updating our own closets with trendy clothing and accessories from our favorite brands that we’re excited to continue wearing throughout the summer season. From a R29 reader-favorite Free People carryall bag to waterproof travel sandals found on Amazon and pearl-adorned jewelry from Jenny Bird, we’re sharing some products we genuinely love and recommend checking out yourself.
Read through our top summer fashion must-haves to see what we’re reaching for, and pick which pieces to add to your own arsenal of hot-weather clothing, shoes, and accessories.
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
Frame Jetset Capri
“Love it or hate it, but capri pants are back. As someone who grew up in the ’00s, I scoffed at the idea last year when the trend started to pop up on the runways. This year, I’ve come around to the retro style, thanks to the many tailored and elevated options currently on the market (the baggy cargo versions are better left in the ’00s). This pair from Frame goes equally well with casual looks (polo shirts, button-downs, etc.) as with more formal looks (longline vests, blazers, etc.).” — Irina Grechko, Fashion Director
Frame Jetset Capri, $, available at FramePhoto: Courtesy of Irina Grechko.
FP Movement Quilted Carryall
“I haven’t stopped using this Free People carryall bag since I got it, and I have another color of it in my cart that I’m tempted to buy. It fits my laptop, gym gear, lunch, and tons more — all while still feeling comfortable slung across my body, thanks to the quilting and wide strap. It’s waterproof in a light rain shower, too, which is important in London. With all the internal and external zip pockets making it ultra-functional, it’s one of the best bags I own.” — Tanyel Mustafa, Senior Writer
FP Movement Quilted Carryall, $, available at Free PeoplePhoto: Courtesy of Tanyel Mustafa.
Pandora Essence Earrings
“I’ve had an arsenal of Pandora jewelry since I was a child, and my collection continues to expand. Most recently, I got to try several pieces from the new Pandora Essence collection, and while I know I’ll be wearing the stacking rings throughout the year, I’ll be reaching for these hoop earrings this season. The wavy shape and dangling freshwater pearls make for a great summer style. They complement the pearl rings I regularly wear and easily dress up any outfit.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Fashion Writer
PANDORA Organically Shaped Circle & Baroque Treated Freshwater, $, available at PANDORAPhoto: Courtesy of Victoria Montalti.
Saylor Chantae Dress
“Summer is all about the all-white uniform. I love this white dress with all of its cutesy little touches, like the smocked neck, rope-tie belt, fluttery sleeves, and striped detailing. It’s giving sipping wine in the French countryside, and I feel so put together but also comfortable in it. The dress is a little short, so I would recommend wearing shorts underneath.” — Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator
Saylor Chantae Dress, $, available at SaylorPhoto: Courtesy of Becca Sax.
Reef Water Vista Sandals
“These waterproof Reef sandals were my go-to travel shoes last summer, and that won’t be changing this time around. Unlike other plastic shoes I’ve owned, the velcro-secured straps are very bendy and don’t cut into the back of my feet. The footbed is so cushiony, with great arch support, and since they’re waterproof, you can just run the whole pair under the tap after a day at the beach. I also have them handy for torrential downpours.” — Venus Wong, Senior Writer
Reef Water Vista Sandal, $, available at AmazonPhoto: Courtesy of Venus Wong.
Babaton Nouvelle Poplin Dress
“One of my favorite TikTok creators is @.marisamartins because she has the flowiest, most effortless collection of chic maxi and midi dresses. Now that summer’s here, I’m inspired to build my own roster of everyday dresses that can be dressed up or down and make for the perfect travel companions. I am positive that this low-cut maxi dress — with its ever-so-slightly cinched waist — will be a wardrobe staple for years to come. I expect to wear it with sneakers, summer sandals, and the occasional waist belt and boots.” — Ebony-Renee Baker, Fashion Editor
Babaton Nouvelle Poplin Dress, $, available at AritziaPhoto: Courtesy of Ebony-Renee Baker.
Jenny Bird Capri Anklet
“I love taking trends that were once popular in our youths and updating and styling them to be modern (hello, overalls). In the ankle department, no one’s offering more variety than Jenny Bird. This dainty silver chain has a tiny pearl at the end of the clasp, and a few different length settings, and it has been so fun to style now that my footwear wardrobe consists mostly of sandals and ballet flats.” — Kate Spencer, Senior Affiliate Partnerships Manager
Jenny Bird Capri Anklet, $, available at Jenny BirdPhoto: Courtesy of Kate Spencer.
Vuori Volley Skirt
“Ever since I reviewed this Vuori tennis skort, it’s been my go-to on hot, activity-filled days. The material is buttery soft, the hidden mesh shorts help prevent thigh chafing, and this periwinkle color is so cheery. It’s also subtle and versatile enough that it doesn’t look like a kitschy tennis skirt if I don’t style it in a tenniscore outfit.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Affiliate Writer
Vuori Volley Skirt, $, available at VuoriPhoto: Courtesy of Victoria Montalti.
Lucy & Yak Alfie Shirt
“I love the print on this — it’s so summery and fun, while looking like a retro bowling shirt. It’s light and airy without being at all see-through (which so much summer wear seems to be?). I pair this with jeans, shorts, and skirts; it works with just about anything. It’ll continue to get a lot of wear over the summer.” — Tanyel Mustafa, Senior Writer
Lucy and Yak Alfie Shirt, $, available at Lucy and YakPhoto: Courtesy of Tanyel Mustafa.
MZ Wallace Micro Woven Box Tote
“Usually, I go through phases of purses, where I use one for a really long time, then get a different one. Right now, my purse of the year is the MZ Wallace Micro Woven Box Tote in Black Lacquer. This chic black patent ‘micro’ tote is more spacious than it looks, making it the perfect day-to-night purse and carrying everything from lip gloss to a toothbrush. I love how there are so many compartments, so I can organize all my essentials and know exactly where everything is. The option to use it as a crossbody bag or a tote bag makes it super convenient.” — Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator
MZ WALLACE Micro Woven Box Tote, $, available at MZ WallacePhoto: Courtesy of Becca Sax.
Buck Mason Surplus Rib Scoop Neck Tank Dress
“Ever since the Skims long slip dress went viral on TikTok, I have been meaning to invest in a figure-hugging summer maxi dress. I finally found my chosen one in this Buck Mason ribbed number. The scoop neckline accentuates my figure in a lovely way, and the straps are wide enough to conceal my bra straps. I love how it feels like wearing a long cotton camisole. I will probably get the hemline shortened eventually (I am 5’1”), but for now, I’ve been enjoying wearing the dress as is with a pair of wedge espadrilles.” — Venus Wong, Senior Writer
Buck Mason Surplus Rib Scoop Neck Tank Dress, $, available at Buck MasonPhoto: Courtesy of Venus Wong.
Keen Jasper Suede Sneakers in Year Of The Dragon
“All of my shoes are either black or white — but no more! I’ve been on the hunt for a pair of colorful shoes, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice. Not only are these Keens the most comfortable sneakers I now own, but this colorway pairs seamlessly with my wardrobe, making them very easy to style. I’ll be wearing these all summer long!” — Kristine Romano, Associate Editor, Photo & Design
KEEN Jasper Suede Sneakers, $, available at KeenPhoto: Courtesy of Kristine Romano.
Ramy Brook Minnie Ruffle Halter Top
“This investment piece has become one of my favorite new additions to my summer wardrobe thanks to its vibrant hue. And while it’s such a statement blouse — from the tiered silhouette and halter neckline to the large 3-D rosette — it’s very wearable. I’ve worn it with matching yellow pants and wide-leg jeans, and plan on wearing it next with a satin skirt.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Fashion Writer
Ramy Brook Minnie Ruffle Halter Top, $, available at Ramy BrookPhoto: Courtesy of Victoria Montalti.
Albaray Denim Midi Dress
“This is my first Albaray piece, and I’m so impressed with the quality. The denim is thick, so it’s not for hot sweaty days, but it’s perfect for cooler summer evenings and overcast weather. This makes it a great transitional piece, so I know I’ll wear it all year round, layered or by itself. It looks good with sandals, sneakers, and boots, and I've received compliments when I’ve worn it.” — Tanyel Mustafa, Senior Writer
Albaray Denim Collar Midi Dress, $, available at AlbarayPhoto: Courtesy of Tanyel Mustafa.
Naot Fiord Buffalo Leather Clogs
“I’m not usually one for comfort over style, but I am totally in love with my clogs. Yes, they are men’s shoes, and they are big and clunky, but they’re my big and clunky shoes. They are so comfortable and actually have a seal of approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association for promoting good foot health. Plus, I love the visible signs of wear on the leather, which makes them look pre-loved. I’ll have this pair for years to come.” — Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator
Naot Fiord Buffalo Leather Clogs, $, available at NaotPhoto: Courtesy of Becca Sax.
Munthe Lemon Omi Skirt
“During the summer, when it’s too hot to even think about what to wear, I rely on my collection of fancy-ish skirts, paired with a simple cotton T-shirt or tank top, for a foolproof outfit formula. My standout piece this season has been this floral sequin midi number from Copenhagen Fashion Week-approved brand Munthe. Based on the number of compliments I’ve gotten this past month alone, I am not the only one who agrees it’s a statement-maker.” — Irina Grechko, Fashion Director
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
It’s always a good time to add a staple piece to your wardrobe — just ask Katie Holmes. The actress — who has become known for her effortless, sophisticated, put-together street style — has teamed up with French brand A.P.C. for a collection full of capsule closet essentials that blend timeless Paris and New York styles.
“I have loved [A.P.C.] since I discovered it. The simplicity of design is born out of sophisticated consistency to details and form,” Holmes, who has shopped the brand since the ’90s, said in the press release.
To bring the line to life, Holmes looked to A.P.C.’s archives, picking out pieces that best reflect her sense of style. “I love vintage and truly enjoyed stepping into the memories of A.P.C. garments of the past. Bringing the inspiration from collections from the early 2000s and working to make them modern and relevant to the 2024 customer was such a joyful and satisfying experience.”
This resulted in an edit made up of classic cotton tees, silk camis, ribbed V-neck sweaters, denim mini skirts, patent leather Mary Janes, and a quilted coat. In addition to the apparel, the line includes a limited-edition pastel quilt (only 100 are available).
“I did approach this collection with the idea of it being a complete wardrobe,” Holmes added. “One can mix and match the pieces to create many different looks that suit one’s individual style. There are day looks and night looks. Professional and playful.”
Katie Holmes x A.P.C. is available to shop online now. Prices range from $165 to $1,330.
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To channel vacation vibes, the line borrows design cues from Y2K style (think: hibiscus flower print, halter-neck styles, draped silhouettes, and vibrant primary colors). Some of this season’s biggest trends can also be found across the collab, which includes matching sets, maxi dresses, baggy jeans, mesh flats, bright white waistcoats, and lots of crochet (from dresses to bags and bucket hats).
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
As we look ahead to sunnier spring days, a fitting new color trend is on the horizon. Butter yellow has been populating the runways, the high street and fashion TikTok. True to its appetizing namesake, this hue falls in the middle of the spectrum between beige and bright yellow, giving it a fresh, wearable take on the controversial primary color.
Compared to its brighter counterparts (Ã la dopamine dressing) a muted butter yellow is much easier to pair with other colors in your wardrobe. Especially adaptable for those who are color averse, butter yellow is the perfect spring neutral — and not just reserved for special occasions or high summer, as primary yellow often is. Just as a citrusy handbag can create a low-key statement, a creamy yellow shirt will go a long way as a basic staple. This trend is all about minimalist impact.
While yellow can be as polarizing as the skinny jeans debate — from the fear of it clashing with yellow undertones and lighter hair colors to the understanding that it’s the color for Black women — butter yellow is quietly putting this all to bed. Spring couldn’t be a better time for us all to get into our pastel eras. So, while we manifest May flowers from all these April showers, explore runway styling tips and editor picks that are sure to satisfy your butter yellow cravings ASAP.
A Butter Yellow Suit
Dressing in any color from head to toe is a bold move, but a butter yellow suit makes for a subtle flex. While the light tone won’t feel like an overcommitment (i.e., you likely won’t be mistaken for a banana) you will make a statement nonetheless. Plus it’s a great color for the warmer months. Take notes from 3.1 Phillip Lim and pair with light-colored shoes and accessories.
A Butter Yellow Dress
Picture a zen version of Beyonce’s Lemonade and you’ve got a flowy, butter yellow dress. Expect to see lots of buttery smocks this spring and summer at weddings, holidays and on the street for everyday wear. Compared to bright yellows, which may not feel appropriate for every occasion, butter yellow is as versatile as it gets. Any shoe goes.
A Butter Yellow Top
Get on *top* of the trend with a butter yellow vest, sweater, cardigan or shirt. Opt for a silhouette that you’re already familiar with and know will suit your wardrobe, and then work from there. Soon you’ll be able to layer ’em for a buttery, sophisticated vibe, as demonstrated on Sandy Liang’s spring runway.
Butter Yellow Pants
James Cochrane
If head-to-toe color is outside your comfort zone, you can still channel the breezy summer vibes of butter yellow with a pair of lightweight pants. Alternatively, opt for jeans in the pastel hue to take denim into your warm-weather wardrobe.
A Butter Yellow Jacket
If you’re in the market for a spring coat or jacket, there’s a butter yellow style out there for you. The hue’s shape-shifting neutrality goes a long way when it comes to outerwear and will give any outfit a head-turning boost. Follow Paloma Wool’s lead with a Western-style denim jacket (and maybe even a matching skirt).
A Butter Yellow Skirt
Butter yellow is to skirts what gold is to jewellery: It just makes sense. From Molly Goddard’s voluminous butter yellow maxi skirts, to Anna Sui’s quilted minis on the spring runways, the consensus is that this feminine shade is a skirting win. Styling tip: Don’t be afraid to mix a butter yellow skirt with other yellow tones. More is more!
Butter Yellow Accessories
Want to dip your toe in the butter before going all in? Creamy yellow handbags, shoes, and jewellery will add a touch of color to any outfit without drawing eyes to them immediately. Once you start letting the tone into your wardrobe, don’t be surprised when you end up dripping in butter yellow, click Christopher Esber’s chic head-to-toe look.
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