Summer Style Essentials for 2024

With summer in full swing, many of us are beginning to feel that our seasonal wardrobes have run their course like most of the relationships on Love Island.

 If you, too, are feeling bored with your usual summer 'fits, fear not. All you need to do to freshen up your fashion before fall is embrace a few key summer style essentials that will have you feeling hotter than the weather. With that said, let's dive into the deep end of 2024's best summer fashion must-haves:

This Backless Maxi Dress: $18

Summer 2024 is all about spicing up our style essentials, which is why this leveled-up maxi dress from Forever 21 is a perfect fit for this list. The strappy open back highlights your figure while keeping you cool at even the hottest of summer events, and the asymmetrical detailing adds an extra dose of visual interest that'll have you getting all the compliments (and maybe even a flirty text from your crush). From brunch dates with your girls to romantic walks by the water, your wardrobe just wouldn't be complete this season without this can't-miss maxi dress.

(via Forever 21)

 

This Not-So-Neutral Bikini: $98

Embrace style and comfort this summer with a new bikini that's so soft that it might as well be a second skin. That's exactly what you'll get with a bikini from Joah Brown, the brand taking minimalist styles up a notch with their premium fabrics and ultra-flattering cuts. This bikini bottom in the color Eucalyptus is perfect if you're looking for a little extra coverage without feeling like your suit is cutting into all the wrong places, and you won't have to worry about constantly readjusting it as you take on whatever waves come your way. Pair it with the matching triangle top ($98) for a monochromatic look that will be your go-to all summer long.

(via Joah Brown)

 

This Convertible Dress (With Pockets): $205

Strait the Label is redefining beachwear with its island-inspired fashions, and there's none we'd recommend more as an essential for your summer style than this Sunrise mini dress. The classic white color makes your tan pop whether you wear the sleeves on or off-shoulder, and the flowy skirt and hidden pockets keep you comfortable from day to night, no matter where your summer takes you. The only problem? It'll make you wish that all your dresses were made with built-in pockets.

(via Strait)

 

Also read about: The Best Places to Shop For Your Summer Wardrobe On a Budget

 

These Pool-Friendly Illusion Earrings: $14

Style is about more than just clothes, as your accessories play a huge role in creating an overall flawless (and flawlessly you) look. That's what makes finding the right jewelry essential for your summer style, but not all pieces are created equal. After all, you want to invest in something that you can wear without worrying about changing colors or staining your skin should you end up hopping in the pool, hitting the gym or heading to the beach last minute. For jewelry like that, you'll want to know about Flaire & Co., the company creating water-resistant jewelry that's both stunning and durable. Their Aria illusion double-hoop earrings are a best-seller for a reason, as they create the appearance of two piercings without the pain of actually getting another one. Plus, they can be worn wherever you go, so you can enjoy the chance to show off your personal style no matter where your day takes you.

(via Flaire & Co.)

 

These Height-Helping Sandals: $43

If you've been struggling to find summer-friendly shoes that don't cost a fortune, Blowfish Malibu is about to be your new best friend. The brand has tons of comfortable, stylish sandals that won't be out of style by next season and won't cost you your entire allowance. Even better, though, is how styles like this Ardice strap sandal feature the tiniest thick heel for height-boosting benefits, without the foot pain. Whether you want to feel taller or just like the way they match everything in your closet, these sandals are a must-buy for all your summer adventures.

(via Amazon)

 

This Olympics-Worthy Sport Dress: $11.79

By this point, you've probably already been dreaming of the perfect athletic dress to rock at every outdoor event this summer, but you may not want to pay the hefty price that often comes with it. Whether it's the Challengers hype, the current cultural obsession with pickleball or just the overall desire for cute dresses with shorts built in underneath, these types of outfits are seemingly everywhere in 2024. Now, thanks to SHEIN, you can finally get one of your own without crying at the cost. This one costs less than $15, but the trendy cutouts and color-blocked details will have people thinking it cost almost as much as a ticket to the Summer Olympics. Plus, it comes in several different colors if you're someone seeking a little brightness this season, but we think the black offers the perfect combination of sleek and stylish to suit everything from tennis matches and hot girl walks to daytime dates and so much more.

(via Shein)

 

This Spin-Class-To-Lunch-Date Athleisure Top: $62

Vitality is your source for totally on-trend workout wear, and this gorgeous green top proves it. The brand is here to show that contour isn't just for your face anymore, as this top is designed with a figure-flattering bust detail and cropped length that's just long enough to let you work it both at the gym and beyond. Even better, though, is how the ultra-soft fabric actually makes you feel while wearing it. Trust us, you won't want to take it off.

(via Vitality)

 

This Dropped Waist LBD for All Your Summer Soirees: $189

Your summer wardrobe wouldn't be complete without some event-worthy head-turners, which is why we recommend this double-tiered dropped waist dress from Alana Eve. Not only is the style itself so subtly chic and elevated, but you can also feel good about buying it knowing that the brand is a Black-owned business created with the goal of creating fashionable pieces for everybody. From birthday dinners to summer socials, this little black dress is sure to make an impactful appearance at some point this season

(via Alana Eve)

 

This Can't-Go-Without-It Crossbody Bag: $189

If you're feeling about as thrilled with your current bag collection as you are about going back to school soon, it's time to invest in a new one that's sure to become your new go-to. This Arden Cove Crissy crossbody bag is smartly designed to not only go with just about every outfit but also to protect your belongings from theft and weather. That makes it ideal for any summer travels on your radar, whether you're jetting off to a far-away city or just trekking out for the day.

(via Arden Cove)

 

Also read about: Summer Vacation Must-Haves for 2024

 

This Hip-Hugging White Linen Skort: $36

Linen may as well be the fabric of summer, especially when in white. That's why your summer wardrobe simply wouldn't be complete without an elevated basic like this linen blend mini skort from Abercrombie, which features a wrap style and short-but-not-too-short length that's perfect for wearing just about anywhere. Pair it with a bodysuit and heels for a night out look or with a cute crop top and sandals for a daytime outfit that will have everyone asking, "Where did you get that?"

(via Abercrombie)

 

This Fitted Denim Mini Dress: $21

The denim trend is huge in 2024, but that doesn't mean you need to try to rock denim-on-denim if that feels like a little too much for you. Instead, go with this must-have mini dress from Forever 21 for a balanced denim look that's as flattering as is trendy. The lace-up back helps the fit stay on point throughout the day (unlike your favorite pair of jeans that seem to stretch and/or wrinkle after only a couple of hours), making this dress a favorite for all your summer events.

(via Forever 21)

 

These Slip On Sandals That Are Perfect for the Beach & Beyond: $65

Designed for maximum comfort, these LAMO sandals will help you slide into summer like never before. Made with lightweight materials like cork, they'll feel about as dreamy as they look. If that's not enough, the black and white print adds the right touch of sophistication and style to any simple summer outfit. Seriously, you'll be wishing you could have sandal weather all year long once you add this pair to your shoe lineup.

(via Lâmo Footwear)

 

Not sure how to keep your summer style going into the next season? No worries. There's no need to waste your warm-weather wardrobe investments once fall comes around, just click HERE to find out how to transition your summer wardrobe into autumn.