Once the sun is out, you know it’s time to change your wardrobe and style to a more suitable one for summer. However, even the most experienced fashionista may have difficulty determining what to wear during this time of the year. To help you plan your looks for the warmer months, here’s a quick list of essential clothing and accessories you should prep while you can:

A Plain White T-Shirt

• READ MORE: Dior X Parley: A Stylish, Sustainable Summer

Nothing can beat the summer heat better than a cool and comfortable t-shirt. You can wear it all day long and to any occasion, as they’re easy to incorporate into any outfit. Try wearing it with some cropped denim shorts for a casual look or underneath a loose, oversized button-down shirt for a chill night out.

When shopping for a t-shirt, it’s best to get one in a plain white colour, as it won’t absorb as much heat from the sun’s rays. You’ll also want to make sure the t-shirt is made of cotton fabric, as this material lets moisture dry much faster than others.

A Pair of Tights

Contrary to popular opinion, you can definitely wear tights during the summer. Tights match well with flowy dresses and skirts, and they’re essential if going out with bare legs makes you feel naked or vulnerable.

The trick for pulling them off during the summer is to shop for tights that are lightweight and sheer enough to keep your legs fresh and breezy. You’ll also want to make sure your tights are matte instead of shiny, as the latter might give off the impression that you’re sweating a lot.

A Pair of Short Shorts

This season is the perfect time to bring out your most comfortable short shorts or hot pants. Whether you get ones made out of denim or cotton, it’s best to choose short shorts that come in neutral colours. That way, you can pair them with any of your tops and shoes more quickly and easily.

A Summer Dress

• READ MORE: Hermès Spring/Summer 2022 is All About the Joys of Summer

Dresses made of light, flowy fabric are clothes you can’t go without during the warmer months. If you’re going for a cheery summer vibe with your outfits, choose dresses in bright colours or exciting floral prints. It’s also the perfect time to don sleeveless, halter, or spaghetti strap dresses to stay fresh even in the sweltering heat.

A Caftan

Want something a little more striking than your usual dresses or skirts? Go for a caftan to create a dramatic entrance at any summer party or gathering. You can wear it like a dress all on its own, or match it with some bottoms to treat it as an oversized top. If desired, you can also cinch it at the waist for a more formal look.

Whichever way you decide to wear it, you shouldn’t have a problem pulling a caftan off since it can suit a wide variety of body types.

A Linen Blouse

Boho chic is a summer staple strongly associated with the summer season. You can effortlessly achieve this look by donning a loose, flowy blouse made out of linen. You can go for a sleeveless tunic-type top or a more traditional button-down shirt. As long as it’s made of white linen, a linen blouse is sure to exude summertime style.

If you want to take it to the next level, go for a blouse that features striking and unique embroidery to better stand out from the crowd.

A Swimsuit

• READ MORE: Fresh & Bright: 6 Best Summer Fragrances To Cop

Any summer-ready fashionista needs to have a swimsuit ready at all times. As for what kind to get, that all depends on your preferences or what cut makes you look your best. Also, consider getting a swimsuit that comes in summery colours or prints to evoke the fresh vibe of the season. It would be best if you also went with a swimsuit made out of quick-drying fabric so that you won’t feel weighed down by a wet outfit for too long.

A Straw Hat

A big, floppy straw hat is an iconic summer accessory that can instantly bring to mind lazy afternoons at the beach or backyard barbecue picnics. Aside from being a fashion statement, it’s also a must for protecting your face and scalp from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays.

A Pair of Sunglasses

A high-quality pair of sunglasses is the ultimate accessory for protecting your eyes against blinding sunlight. While you may be tempted to pick a trendy design, it’s wise to choose a classic one instead. That way, you can use the same pair year after year. You’ll also want to buy a durable pair, as the last thing you want is to have your sunglasses break on you while you’re out and about.

A Pair of Flip-Flops

While go-go boots may be a bold statement, flip-flops are more appropriate for summer. For days when you’ll be heading to the beach or going swimming at the pool, you’ll want to wear or bring along a pair of rubber flip-flops. Because they’re designed to be water-resistant, you can wear them and head straight into the water without worrying about ruining your footwear. Flip-flops also come in a myriad of designs and colours, making it easy to choose a pair that best suits your personality and your outfits.

A Shawl

During the summer months, always keep a shawl made of light, airy material on you. It’s an all-around accessory that you can use to protect yourself from harsh sunlight or strong summer winds. You can also throw it on to quickly cover up your swimsuit before and after you enjoy some time in the water. It can even work as a simple picnic or beach mat in a pinch.

If you don’t know what design to choose for your shawl, go for tie-dye, checkered, floral, or botanical prints and patterns.

Are you the type who dreads summer’s coming because dressing for the season stresses you out? If so, we hope that the recommendations we’ve listed above make things a little easier for you this time around. With these summer essentials in your wardrobe or luggage, you’ll be ready to have fun under the sun in no time!

For more fashion reads, click here.