We enjoyed those few beautiful days of real spring. Now, it's just a humid, sometimes warm, sometimes cold road to the big shebang: summer 2016. And we've already got the next few months mapped out. After-work drinks are only permitted on rooftops bedecked in twinkling lights. Barbecues are slated for every other weekend, backyards alternating between friends. Summer Fridays are for sunset scouting along the coast.
Each of our summertime pursuits requires something different of our wardrobes — but, let's not forget how sweltering July and August can be. Your summer closet needs to maximize adaptability and minimize perspiration. How to achieve this delicate balance? We've selected the 30 pieces that will get you through every rendezvous, cocktail hour, and spontaneous beach trip. When the solstice hits, make sure you're ready for your best summer ever with these can't-do-without essentials.
The Tie-Strap Tank
It's all in the details when it comes to warm-weather dressing, and these delicate straps make a subtle statement.
Aritzia, $49.00, available at Aritzia
The Versatile Bikini
Consider your search for the perfect two-piece complete: What's better than one you can wear more than one way? (This one has removable straps).
Ward Whillas, $180.00, available at Ward WhillasWard Whillas, $135.00, available at Ward Whillas
The Easy Slip-Ons
Give your kicks an artsy touch with this too-good-to-miss collaboration between Vans and & Other Stories.
Vans, $100.00, available at & Other Stories
— SPONSORED —
The Printed Short
Shorts for summer? Groundbreaking, we know. But this go around, seek out a graphic print like the one spotted on this bold black-and-white pair for something far more interesting than your worn-in bottoms.
H&M, $24.99, available at H&M
The One-Piece
You'll be surprised how much use you can get out of a good one-piece bathing suit, both in the water and on the street.
Beth Richards, $260.00, available at Beth Richards
The Denim Dress
Our go-to outfit for when we don't feel like putting in maximum effort? A jean dress, of course.
Pixie Market, $126.00, available at Pixie Market
The Logo Tee
Graphic T-shirts are back in a big way, so it's time to go logo-crazy and stock up on your favorite brands.
Shop Super Street SSS Yellow Tee, $68, available at Shop Super Street.
The Weekend Duffel
For trips upstate and to the beach, you'll need a bag that carries all the essentials (and looks good, too).
Baggu, $36.00, available at Baggu
The Classy Cover-Up
Cover-ups don't always need to look like a caftan. A sleepwear-inspired wrap dress will have you going to the beach and back in style.
Araks, $450.00, available at Araks
The AC-Ready Sweatshirt
Just because it's hot outside doesn't mean sweatshirts are irrelevant — have a graphic one nearby for those too-chilly conference rooms.
Brother Vellies, $285.00, available at Brother Vellies
The Quirky Slides
Let your flat footwear be the talk of your next daytime party.
Brother Vellies, $285.00, available at Brother Vellies
The Maxi Dress
Because what else are you going to wear to all those rehearsal dinners and baby showers?
Suno, $950.00, available at Suno
The Basket Bag
This tote reminds us that Jane Birkin was onto something...
Chance, $88.00, available at Chance
The Sheer Situation
When temperatures surpass the 80s, it's too warm for anything but the lightest clothing possible — it's also the perfect opportunity to take the plunge into sheer territory.
Nasty Gal, $328.00, available at Nasty Gal
The Flared Baby Blues
There's something about a cropped flare that just begs for a striped tank top, some nude sandals, and a long afternoon bike ride.
Rachel Comey, $334.00, available at Rachel Comey
The Midi-Dress
The ultimate dress-it-up or dress-it-down wardrobe staple. Pair it with white sneakers for day, or black heels for night.
Toit Volant, $233.00, available at Need Supply Co
The Summer Mini-Bag
For when you don't feel like lugging anything but the necessities.
Clare V., $130.00, available at The Outnet
The Graphic Tote
We couldn't live without our carry-all tote-bags, especially during the summer. Stow your sunglasses, your book, and whatever other warm-weather essentials you need on the daily in this trusty companion.
Chance, $75.00, available at Chance
The Off-Shoulder Top
Yep, this shoulder-bearing trend has major staying power and will do you well this season.
L'oeil Farrah Top, $82, available at L'oeil.
The Summer Straw Hat
Everyone needs a straw hat to protect their face from the sun and look adorable in the process.
Jujumade, $265.00, available at Jujumade
The Breezy Culottes
Try a shorts-skirt hybrid that will catch the breeze and brush your knees.
COS, $115.00, available at COS
The High-Waisted Denim Shorts
Because nothing says "summer" like a flattering pair of jorts.
Sandy Liang Meesh Denim Shorts, $285, available at Sandy Liang.
The Drop Earring
You don't want your jewelry to be weighing you down in the summer heat. A minimalist drop earring will complete your outfit without being too overbearing.
Stylenanda, $11.00, available at Stylenanda
The Workwear Top
Stock up on polished-yet-weather-practical tops you can wear under your blazers. Ditch the outerwear on your way to the office and then throw it back on once you're in the AC.
Finery London, $59.00, available at Finery London
The Comfy Lounge Pants
Printed joggers pair well with tees and sandals for everything from running errands to running home to nap.
Ganni, $249.67, available at Ganni
The On-Trend Romper
Tackle two trends in one by going off-the-shoulder with your warm-weather romper.
Reformation, $178.00, available at Reformation
The Throwback Sunnies
Get your hands on a pair of retro sunnies that'll give every outfit a summer of '59 vibe.
Retrosuperfuture, $129.59, available at Farfetch
The Minidress
Who even goes out in the winter? Now's the time to hit the town on weekends and "school nights," alike, and you'll need the dress to match.
Realisation Par, $170.00, available at Realisation Par
The Summer Mule
Talk about a pair of statement shoes.
Mansur Gavriel, $625.00, available at Mansur Gavriel
The Workout Gear Upgrade
Update your gym wardrobe with a unique take on the sports bra. It's so cute, you'll want to wear it all the time.
Outdoor Voices, $55.00, available at Outdoor Voices
The New Miniskirt
Miniskirts don't have to feel so '90s. A printed, asymmetrical option will be your go-to when it's too hot for anything else.
C/MEO Collective, $190.00, available at BNKRLike what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
17 Jumpsuits Perfect For Wearing Anywhere & Everywhere