Ten Neutral Summer Basics

Last weekend, I listened to a Tedx talk called the Ten-Item Wardrobe about an American college student spending a semester in Paris. During her months abroad, she realized French women own a very streamlined, small closet of quality basics. They repeat their outfits often and rely on a consistent uniform. I’d highly recommend listening to her story and how it changed her own view of style. It was a source of inspiration as I’ve been slowly decluttering in my own home this month. Less is more!

I started editing my own wardrobe to remove outliers I don’t really wear and quickly realized that during the summer months when layering isn’t necessary what I most often wear are a few basics on repeat. By getting rid of the rest, I can get dressed in an outfit I love to wear more quickly and easily.

Below I’m sharing the ten things I wear most often during the summer months. (I have linked items I own personally, as well as quality options I would purchase for my wardrobe if I was shopping.)

Tan Sandals

A sandal that disappears on a tan foot and elongates the leg is always my top pick for the summer.

Neutral Tank Top

Paired with denim shorts, a comfortable cotton tank top makes an easy uniform for hot days. Add a cardigan or throw on a sweatshirt when the mornings are cool.

Denim Shorts

An indestructible foundation piece for summer days.

Midi Dress

I’ve fallen in love with wearing easy midi dresses this summer. Add sandals or a white sneaker and you’re good to go.

White Sneakers

A year-round basic for me, these white sneakers are my favorite. Fit is tts and they feel great straight out of the box.

White T-shirt

I love throwing on a crisp white tee with a summer tan, and often go a size up so they drape nicely. At these prices you can get a new one every summer or two, so they are always fresh.

Raffia Hat

Throwing on a hat is perfect for sun protection and to cover messy hair. I own the raffia bucket hat from J.Crew – just restocked – and the Panama hat from Madewell.

Black Swimsuit

So classic. You can’t go wrong with a basic black swimsuit.

Lightweight Sweater

For cooler days and transitioning through spring and summer, throw on a lightweight cotton sweater.

Woven Bag

The texture of a woven bag helps to add interest to simple summer outfits when layering isn’t an option. Lots of varying price points here!

Outfit details: Hat | Swimsuit | Denim Shorts | Sandals

I hope this post helps you to settle on summer basics that will keep your wardrobe tidy and make dressing a simple process each day. A quick lesson from the French is that it’s ok to wear the same thing on repeat (many of our beloved characters do!) and that fewer choices actually can improve your style.

I’ll be referring back to this post summer after summer to make sure I have my basics set and then I can get dressed with ease. To round out my wardrobe, I also have my favorite summer pajamas and a go-to exercise outfit.

See more of my summer style posts HERE.