Wear Your Basics Every Other Season—Just for Summer, Try These Fun Statement Items Instead
Throughout fall, winter, and even spring, I live in my tried-and-true basics, opting for a great pair of jeans and a crisp white tee more often than not. A statement pair of earrings or a cool jacket might occasionally be subbed in to keep things interesting, but for the most part, I'm a fashion minimalist for three seasons of every year. In the summertime, however, those same understated wardrobe items get packed up, and in their place go all the statement fashion items that belong only in warm, sunny weather. Think stripes, bright colors, bold jewelry, and voluminous silhouettes. Essentially, if someone might have to do a double-take to "get" my outfit between the months of June and September, I've done everything right.
Ahead, you'll find everything you need to follow my lead for the next few months, opting for clothes, shoes, and accessories that make a bigger splash as opposed to a perfect—clean and quiet—diving entry. I'm talking about crochet pieces made of gold metallic threads, mesh stiletto boots, mirrored dresses, and turquoise silk trousers. There are fringe dresses, genie pants, and sequin swimsuits. Wear your basics every other season. Just for summer, try these 39 fun statement items instead.
If you really want to make a statement, pair these striped blue trousers with this clashing red striped top.
The high wedges and thong silhouette already make a strong statement, but this color is a perfect exclamation point.
This dress is summer 2025's most-wanted item by a mile.
This color is next-level chic.
Pair the above skirt with these red mesh boots for a cool, IYKYK type of look.
The bigger the skirt, the better the outfit.
A playful addition to any outfit.
I always tell people that J.Crew has the best bang-for-your-buck bikinis, and this adorable eyelet option is all the proof I need.
Shop the matching Eyelet '90s No-Tie String Bikini Bottom ($49).
Genie pants are summer's new favorite statement trend.
Need.
The perfect level of sheer.
Yes, there are two skirts styled on top of each other, and yes, I'm copying this look right away.
Consider me smitten.
This entire collaboration is perfect. No notes!
Consider your next vacation night-out look found.
Add this necklace to any outfit to make it feel more styled and intentional.
No more canvas totes, please.
This crochet top looks way pricier than it is.
A punchy color like this one deserves a prime summer spot.
These new Alaïa flats are just the right amount of sporty.
Next time you head to the beach, wear this top with white string bikini bottoms.
My ideal beach-to-dinner outfit.
I can't bear to carry around a boring black leather tote during the summer.
Whenever you're stuck on what to wear this summer, put this dress on. It'll do just the trick.
Say yes to statement sandals this summer. The more beads and shells the better.
Kallmeyer's liquidy silk-look trousers are on every fashion person's wish list this summer.
No, I don't recommend wearing this sequin bodysuit in any body of water. Instead, pair it with cool drawstring pants.
Add some fun to your handbags with a bag charm… or five.
Why yes, I do need this top.
In case you're also tired of denim shorts, may I suggest investing in this shockingly fun, stretchy pair?
Lookie here: the nakedest shoes ever created.
I've wanted this dress for at least two summers, and now that it's deeply discounted, I'm finally snagging one for my upcoming Italian vacation.
Buh-bye, white tees. Hello, turquoise!
I'm calling it—these are set to become as viral as Bottega Veneta's Drop Earrings.
How cool is this print? I'm in love.
The prettiest pink sandals deserve a place in your wardrobe.
Clutches can often err on the side of stuffy, but this aluminum minaudière is beyond fun.
I highly suggest buying the entire set.
Shop the matching Striped Ramie Pants ($100).
Aren't you glad you scrolled to the end?
