We’re Who What Wear editors—of course we keep tabs on all of our favorite items year-round. Now that we’re getting into summer, though, and closets are being turned over, it’s about time we spotlight some of our favorite warm-weather essentials that keep the good vibes going all season long.
Whether it’s longline linen pants you’re looking for or a small, delicious piece of jewelry, I asked Who What Wear editors to tell me their favorite sub-$300 summer essentials. From sweatproof T-shirts to NYC-approved ballet flats, these 21 items are the ones we firmly stand behind, rain or shine. Happy shopping!
Lele Sadoughi
Baroque Pearl Collar Necklace
“After stumbling upon this baroque pearl necklace from Lele Sadoughi, I’ve been hooked. The size and shape of the pearls makes them feel incredibly Mediterranean—perfect for any long summers abroad chilling by a coastline and eating fresh fruit. I’ve worn it three times already to rave reviews from my group chat.” — Ana Escalante, assistant shopping editor
Pixie Market
Thea White Double Belted Skirt
“I’m convinced everyone needs a neutral midi skirt in their wardrobes this season to style with all the cute summer tops. I’ve gotten stopped on the street by people asking about this particular one every single time I’ve worn it so far—it’s that good. The double-belt situation is obviously the star of the show, but the fit of the skirt itself is pretty perfect too.” — Michaela Bushkin, fashion director, branded content
“While black sandals run a dime a dozen, these thongs from Tory Burch feel undeniably special with their hammered gold hardware and butter-soft leather. Since they can be dressed up or down, there’s no question they’re the ultimate sandals to pack on vacation, and I love the way they can make even the simplest outfits look so elevated.” — Anna LaPlaca, senior fashion editor
Reformation
Aubree Linen Dress
“I bought this under-$100 dress in a lime color last summer, and now, of course, I’m eyeing this butter-yellow version too. I’ve reached for it so many times on warm days because of the lightweight linen fabric and the fact that it’s not a form-hugging silhouette. I plan to wear this new shade with white accessories, preferably while on a boat somewhere but realistically while at my favorite weekend coffee spot.” — Bushkin
The Clear Cut
Oval Gold Hoops
“If I’m spending all summer dipping in and out of pools and the ocean, why would I waste my money on overly trendy jewelry that’ll eventually tarnish? Introducing my favorite pair of gold hoops from The Clear Cut that have withstood the test of time (and chlorine) sans damage.” — Escalante
Free-Est
Bubble Bliss Skirt
“Airy white skirts are quickly replacing all my denim shorts this season because they’re just as easy to wear and ideal for hot weather but a world away in terms of style. This comfortable bubble skirt from Free People was one of my main staples last summer thanks to its lightweight feel, elasticated waist, and, yes, pockets.” — LaPlaca
“After coming back from Mexico earlier in the summer, I’ve put this luxe-looking Aritzia hat to the test. Safe to say, it passed with flying colors. I’m often wary of bucket hats as someone with a larger-than-average head (not a self-drag!), but this wide-brim version looks incredibly expensive and is a spitting image of another designer bucket hat that costs triple the price of this one. No notes necessary.” — Escalante
“Come summertime, I want to live in linen suiting separates. I had been looking for the perfect waistcoat for a while, as it’s incredibly hard to find versions that would fit my larger bust. However, when I stumbled on Posse’s chocolate-brown vest, I knew my search was over. What I love about this piece is that the higher neckline makes it office-appropriate. Plus, it offers a bit more coverage for the girls with larger busts. I also love that the material is made from soft linen, making it perfect for those sweltering summer days. Honestly, I’m unsure how I survived last summer without this top.” — Jasmine Fox-Suliaman, editor
Adoore
Nîmes Mini Dress in Cherry
“No thoughts, just this adorable breezy minidress from Adoore, one of my favorite Swedish brands. While I’ve collected a few dresses from the label over the years, there’s not one I reach for more than this stunning cherry-printed number. Not only is it perfect for any “Italian summer fantasy” moments, but I’ve worn it to work layered under a boxy, oversize blazer and still felt in the summery mood while remaining office-appropriate, even on the hottest New York City days. Win-win!” — Escalante
“Jewelry has been and always has been my hack for elevating a look. This cuff adds just the right amount of edge.” — Aniyah Morinia, fashion and beauty editor, branded content
Madewell
Satin Maxi Slip Skirt
“If there’s only one thing on this list you buy, let it be this dreamy butter-yellow slip skirt I’ve gotten oodles of attention for. I’ve worn it in the spring and now as the weather is heating up. Just pair it with your white ribbed tank top of choice and you’re done. It’s that simple.” — Escalante
Zara
Midi Dress With Ruffles
“I recently did a Zara haul, and after months of not buying anything for myself from the retailer, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I loved my new pieces, especially this ruched midi dress I wore to dinner the other night. The fabric has some stretch to it, making it comfortable and a great option for a dinner date. The pistachio hue I went with is sold out, but the fiery red is in stock, but I have a feeling it won’t be for much longer.” — Grace O’Connell Joshua, assistant shopping editor
Uniqlo
U Airism Cotton Oversized Crew Neck Half-Sleeve T-Shirt
“I have worn this Uniqlo tee silhouette for years. There are so many things spot-on about it—the boxy cut, modern sleeve length, perfect neckline, and the signature Airism fabric.” The tee is $20, but it looks designer, and yes, people always ask me where the tee is from.” — Bobby Schuessler, market director
Staud x Wrangler
The Overall Rib Tank White
“Buckle up! I just got this in the mail, and it’s even better than I imagined. I can’t wait to wear this to dinners, parties, and everywhere in between.” — Morinia
Frankie4
Middleton Ankle Strap Sandal
“Could you believe these chic sandals are orthopedics? I wore them throughout three back-to-back days of 10-mile walks throughout Mexico City, and yep, they might be some of the cutest and most comfortable sandals I own.” — Escalante
“I shouldn’t have to tell you about the importance of a good pair of affordable linen pants, so I’ll keep this brief—buy them. This H&M pair costs less than a round of drinks with your friends and comes in a ton of colors, so it’s easy to match with everything in your closet. This buy is a no-brainer.” — Escalante
Le Specs
Outta Love Oval-Frame Tortoiseshell Acetate Sunglasses
“No joke, this has to be my favorite summery purchase ever. Not only are they incredibly chic, but the affordable price point also means I’m enjoying my warm-weather vacations instead of making sure I’m babying my sunglasses. I’ve packed them on every single vacation with no regrets.” — Escalante
J.Crew
Cadiz Hand-Knotted Rope Tote
“I’m totally obsessed with my Cadiz Tote from J.Crew. It goes with most outfits I wear over spring and summer, and it’s the ideal vacation tote. On top of that, it’s less than $100. I’m definitely looking to add another colorway to my collection.” — Chichi Offor, associate shopping editor
Jeffrey Campbell
Moira Mary Jane Flats
“I refuse to be an open-toe-shoe girl in NYC, so my summer shoe collection will consist of these JC flats in every color they come in.” — Natalie Gray Herder, editor, branded content
Steve Madden
Ridley Ice Leather Tailored Loafer
“The same goes for these loafers. I love the white colorway to make my outfit feel more summery.” — Gray Herder
Reformation
Isabeli Linen Dress
“I’m still very much in my Challengers era, so I know I’ll probably be wearing this pretty Reformation dress nonstop this summer.” — Maya Thomas, assistant beauty editor
