Memorial Day Is When I Hard-Launch My Summer Wardrobe—6 Outfits I'll Start With

Spring is fun, but thanks to seasonal allergies and an unpredictable forecast, I always find myself desperately looking forward to that one weekend that signifies that summer has truly kicked off. Memorial Day is coming up quickly, and as I begin to think about my summer outfits, this three-day weekend is top of mind. I've been doing a lot of traveling this year, so I'll be spending this Memorial Day weekend in the New York City parks and my own apartment. There was a time when I felt like I always had to jet-set, but now, I'm just looking to relax and enjoy some much needed personal time.

With neutrals and a pop of red being the go-to color palette of the fashion crowd right now, what was once known as stereotypical Memorial Day attire is now considered ultra chic. I'm thinking of wearing simple and classic silhouettes with my clothing for the season. Below, find the six Memorial Day outfits I'm planning to build my personal style around for the time being.

I'm not going to lie. I'm low-key in the midst of my party-girl era and loving it. A night out during Memorial Day weekend for the people who decided to stick to the city instead of flocking to the Hamptons requires an outfit like this. An eye-catching top with cool pants are the definition of New York City.

If Audrey Hepburn met Jane Birkin in her 2024 era, I have a feeling she'd find her way into this look. A woven bag meets the sharp tailoring of a white button-down and long flared denim shorts. I can't imagine a better finishing touch than kitten heels.

I'll be wearing my trench coat as long as humanly possible. Even when it's hot outside, the slow transition from styling a trench with a sweater to open-toed sandals and bare legs is a beautiful journey to watch. The best part is the trench coat will double as something nice to sit on at the park.

Think of Memorial Day weekend as an excuse to be as casual as you can imagine this summer. The Adidas track shorts that have been hiding in the back of your closet deserve a trip to the farmers market.

Lately, I've found the idea of wearing white for Labor Day a bit too predictable. I'd love to take a risk with this all-black look. It's something that you wouldn't expect for summer, yet it makes so much sense. It attracts the heat and a lot of compliments.

There's nothing I love more than a cardigan this time of year. With nothing underneath, it's a modest way to feel alluring. A slip skirt will be your best friend this year, and any shoes that come with a buckle are guaranteed to be a winning pair.