By this time of the year, closets have been overhauled and swimsuits are out of storage. It also means it’s time to start adding some summer fashion must-haves to our wardrobes.
With trends like metallic cowboy boots and maxi denim skirts, this summer promises to deliver some memorable fashion moments. And while the plethora of warm-weather styles bouncing around might seem confusing, our editors are focused on trying out the ones that are worth the long-term investment.
From worth-the-price jeans to travel-friendly bags and on-the-go sandals, here are the best items our team tried and loved last month.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Mother Denim The Funnel Sneak
“I am in my denim era: After years of boring skinny jeans, 2023’s denim trends are more exciting than ever, and I am fully embracing jean maxi skirts and unexpected styles. This extra-wide-leg style from Mother’s SNACKS! line looks just as good with sneakers and tank tops as with a button-down and heels.” — Irina Grechko, fashion directorMother Denim The Funner Sneak, $, available at Mother Denim
Closed Nikka Jeans
“As a petite human, I’m always on the hunt for oversized jeans that don’t swallow me whole. This pair from Closed is definitely an investment, but I’ve already gotten my fair share of wear out of them. They are buttery soft — literally feel like sweatpants — and the silhouette feels streamlined almost like a trouser, so I look put-together without feeling stiff. I’ve dressed these up with boots and heels, but they look just as good with sneakers or ballet flats.” — Kate Spencer, senior affiliate strategistClosed Closed Nikka wide-leg Jeans, $, available at Farfetch
Maguire Alina Black Sandal
“I notoriously hate summer fashion, but this platform pair from Maguire is making me reconsider the season’s footwear. I’ve worn them so far to everything from a vineyard day to running errands.” — Frances Solá-Santiago, fashion writerMaguire Alina Black Sandal, $, available at Maguire
Mango Denim Midi Skirt
“Of course, I jumped on spring’s must-have denim skirt trend. I can’t wait to wear it with my Schutz knee-high blocked heel boots for a night out, but this casual-Sunday-winery-tour fit is definitely more of my day-to-day style.” — Carli Whitwell, senior director of editorialMango Denim midi-skirt, $, available at Mango
Dissh Natural Linen Vest & Midi Skirt
“Earlier in May, I went on a two-week vacation to Japan. Making sure to leave half of my suitcase empty for gifts to bring back, I packed a lineup of clothes that I could easily mix and match. This set fits the bill — working together and as separates, with the skirt pairing with cashmere sweaters and the vest serving as an extra layer over tank tops and tees.” — Irina Grechko, fashion directorDissh Banks Natural Linen Vest, $, available at Dissh
Dissh Roberts Natural Linen Midi Skirt, $, available at Dissh
Everlane The Tencel Oversized Blazer
“This blazer is a great wardrobe staple and the perfect weight to layer over a tee or tank in the spring and summer. It feels breezy, but structured and slightly oversized — catch me in the office wearing this with shorts and sandals.” — Kate Spencer, senior affiliate strategyEverlane Tencel Oversized Blazer, $, available at Everlane
Eledera Classica Mule
“While I’ve been forgoing heels more and more over the past few years, I find myself wanting some height from time to time. These mules by Eledera are the perfect balance of comfort and height, featuring a nearly two-inch block heel.” — Frances Solá-Santiago, fashion writer
Eledera Classica Mule Tan, $, available at Eledera
Artizia Satin Blouse
“If I’m being honest, I didn’t buy this blouse. My mom did — for herself. But I was home one weekend and needed to borrow a shirt to go out and I took it and promised to give it back before slipping it into my weekend bag. She’ll never notice, right?” — Carli Whitwell, senior director of editorialAritzia Industry Shirt, $, available at Aritzia
Pistola Kelly 90s Skater Short
“I feel like we’re all on the forever hunt for the perfect pair of denim shorts, and these baggy babies from Pistola are perfect for me in terms of a relaxed option. The denim is super soft, and while they do fall a bit long on my leg, I think they’re a fun spin on the classic jort that can be styled up or down.” — Kate Spencer, senior affiliate strategistPistola Kelly 90s Skater Short, $, available at Pistola
Cuyana Double Moon Saddle Bag & Closed
“These were my two other go-to’s during my trip. The jeans (I told you I was in my denim era) from Closed feature a double waistband, adding a touch of interest to even the most boring outfits. Meanwhile, Cuyana’s newest Double Moon Saddle Bag, which also comes in neutral colors and in a fun belt silhouette, is the perfect travel size, fitting just enough essentials without weighing you down.” — Irina Grechko, fashion directorClosed Averly Jeans, $, available at Closed
Cuyana Double Moon Saddle Bag, $, available at Cuyana
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