It’s that time of year again. Warmer weather and bluer skies signify the school year is almost over, and there are smiles all around. Summer is just around the corner… The countdown has officially begun.
With that in mind, summer requires a lot of preparation, and what better way than to make sure your wardrobe is top-notch? You must ensure you have all the weather-friendly essentials to live out your perfect stress-free summer. I’m here to help you out with a list of the four most important wardrobe items you need to have fun under the sun.
Sundresses
This one may seem cliché, yet I still have to put it on my list because it is a classic. The sundress is a perfect, versatile piece of clothing that can be good for any event. Whether you use it as a beach day cover-up or wear it to a nice dinner on a warm evening, a sundress can be extremely comfortable while still being stylish.

It is also great for hot weather, especially if you don’t like wearing shorts. Most sundresses are typically pretty flowy and light, so wearing one can be a great solution if you are feeling warm or do not know what to wear.
But the best part of a sundress is the many different types of designs they come in. Plain, with flowers, with stripes or even with swirls — there are so many patterns pick from.
Some of my favorite stores that sell amazing sundresses are Free People, Urban Outfitters and H&M.
Chunky Jewelry
This one might be my favorite. I have recently become obsessed with wearing chunky rings, bracelets, arm cuffs, necklaces…you get the point. However, there is a reason for my newfound obsession, and that is the fact that a piece of chunky jewelry can really elevate a look, especially if you feel like your outfit is missing something.

For summer, chunky jewelry is the best way to feel put together while also standing out from the crowd. Gold, silver or any other color of statement jewelry will make you feel unique and fun while embodying a fashion icon.
You can wear chunky jewelry with any outfit, too, whether a casual top and jeans or a fancy going-out dress. Whatever outfit you decide to wear, it will help you stand out. Also, here is a tip for layering necklaces: a chunky necklace as the longest one, a medium-sized pendant in the middle and a dainty chain as the shortest one.
A few stores that I highly recommend are Missoma, Cult of Sun and Peppermayo.
Shorts/Jorts
Again, a classic. Shorts are a must-have California essential. One of my favorite types is baggy jorts, which are longer denim shorts that go right above or under the knee.

Regular denim shorts are also perfect for beach days and hot weather, or even just walking around town. For warmer nights, wearing pajama shorts is vital in cooling down. I recommend stores such as PacSun, Urban Outfitters and Garage.
If there is one thing that you take away from this article for your summer wardrobe, it’s the shorts. I cannot emphasize enough how helpful they are; I would even recommend keeping a pair in your bag at all times. They really are the perfect staple to a great summer.
A Tote Bag
While this one might not seem as obvious, once you try it out, you will never go back. During summer, you will often need someplace to store multiple items, and a backpack is not going to cut it. Sunscreen, sunglasses, a bathing suit and lip balm are only some of the things that must be on hand at all times.

A tote bag is the perfect way to store all of these items. There are multiple different sizes and types of tote bags out there. I normally use a medium-sized tote — I feel like it fits everything I need to bring.
Having an assortment of different totes to complement different outfits is helpful as well. Crocheted bags, canvas bags and straw bags are just a few examples of what you can buy.
My favorite places to get totes are Longchamp (although this option is a bit more expensive) and Nordstrom.
Now that you have a comprehensive list of all the summer essentials, it’s time to start looking for them! Trust me, you will not regret being able to use these items at your whim.
Happy summer!