Pictured: COS Voluminous Sleeveless Midi Dress ($138)
If I had to choose one word to describe my summer aesthetic, it would be "elevated." This is the season I really lean into refined looks and keep my outfits relatively simple and low effort but put-together. Maybe it's the scorching temperatures, but I find myself wanting to put less energy into styling trends and instead rotate through a series of straightforward and classic looks. That's why I'm making it a point to arm myself with a collection of quality staples to build my seasonal wardrobe around so that these pieces can do all the heavy lifting for me. Right now, that assortment involves pieces like airy poplin skirts, pretty drop-waist dresses, bateau-neck tops, and statement accessories to accent all my looks.
It's officially the dead of summer, which means that I've reached my limit with trying to put in maximum effort when getting dressed. It's all about looking chic while doing the least because my days are quickly filling up with travel plans and because NYC's nonstop heat waves require fuss-free looks. I'm shopping with this in mind and have found so many pieces at retailers like COS, Aritzia, and J.Crew that feel both effortless and ultra-elevated at the same time. Below, I've curated a list of the top 31 staples I'm currently eyeing—from cotton maxi skirts to tailored vests to airy dresses—in case you're in the market as well.
This dress has so much going for it: the boat neckline, drop-waist silhouette, and midi tea length.
If I see you wearing a cord belt, I know you're a fashion person.
I love a capri-pant outfit because it looks so much more inspired than it really is to create. Try these with a simple tank and kitten heels.
With a low, walkable heel and modern square toe, these are truly "wear anywhere" sandals.
A word to the wise: Anything drapey or semi-sheer immediately looks so luxe.
Love the top as much as the styling idea.
Airy, easy, and adorable.
I saw this tote on a recent visit to the J.Crew store in East Hampton and was thoroughly impressed with how expensive and designer it looked and felt.
Swimwear just doesn't get any more classic than this.
High-neck, longline vests are the ultimate trend because they always look like you tried (even if you didn't).
A vest-and-tailored-shorts set just might be my favorite low-effort, high-yield outfit right now.
All about those clean lines.
Tennis necklaces make everything look elevated.
This scarf detail is everything to me.
Yep, it's already in my cart.
Wrinkle-free and just begging to be packed in your suitcase.
This crinkled texture just looks so expensive, doesn't it?
I've tried countless sunglasses trends over the years and still reach for my oval shades every single day.
Like a cheat code for taking the most basic outfits to the next level.
Effortlessly cool.
Go from the beach to the boardroom and back again.
This layered look is so fun.
One and done.
I'm wearing fewer jewelry pieces but more impactful ones.
Heat wave–proof.
Mock-neck tops will always look so pulled-together.
These would be great for summer travel.
I'm taking notes on the belt styling here. Thanks, Aritzia.
Throw it on in seconds. Keep getting complimented all day or night long.
Easy yet directional.
Immediate elegance.
This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
-
Treating Yourself? What to Buy From the New Designer Collections Before They Sell OutI'm kind of a pro at this.
-
I'm a Fashion Editor—One of My Chicest NYC TikTok Follows Shared 30 of Her Top Winter Picks From NordstromOf course, I want everything Martine Lavelle recommends.
-
This Sweater Will Never Go Out of Style—Here's How French Women Are Wearing It NowEffortless and chic? Oui!
-
The Top 10 Things I'm Buying in February for a Better WardrobeYour monthly shopping list.
-
My Shopping Is Borderline Out of Control Lately—30 Shockingly Good Things in My CartOr closet.
-
5 Commute-Friendly Trends I'm Buying to Wear in NYC This YearWhat to wear when you've got places to be.
-
These Under-$100 Winter Buys From Nordstrom Are a Pure Hit of Fashion DopamineThese will have your friends doing a double take.
-
Elsa Hosk's Already Wearing 2025's First Viral Sneaker TrendFor $80? Say less.
