Summer 2023 is approaching at lightning speed. You must be thrilled with the idea of wearing your favourite outfits. No? Come on! We know what you’re thinking: you have to revamp your wardrobe. Not at all! Some of the most incredible pieces that will dictate the trend this summer are classic, eternal clothes, and some are probably already in your closet.
A new season doesn’t always mean a new seasonal capsule wardrobe. Sometimes, it’s all about staples and how they combine to create stunning looks. Staple pieces are the first step in building a summer wardrobe that speaks for your personality and style. And if you ever thought they’re just basic and out of fashion, we heartily encourage you to think twice. Staples are indeed basic (in most cases), but out of fashion? Never.
Pared back but never boring, wardrobe staples will always turn heads. These are the summer pieces we’re loving for 2023:
Plain white tee
You can never go wrong with a plain white t-shirt, especially if combined with classical denims and the right accessories. This is a universal piece you can play with in multiple ways, so it should come as no surprise that it is part of our summer wardrobe list of essentials. We’re pretty sure you already have at least one such item in your closet, but if not, don’t get discouraged. White tees can be found absolutely everywhere: designer, premium, or mass market. However, be sure you don’t buy the cheapest t-shirt you see, as quality will make the difference between an elegant, exquisite look and a so-so one. Therefore, pay special attention to the material chosen, and be sure it’s 100% cotton.
White linen shirt
A white linen shirt is one of the absolute summer essentials, not just because it looks great but also because it’s comfortable. Linen is a very breathable material, allowing the skin to breathe on hot summer days and preventing sweat. It might seem just another simple piece that has no magic, but a linen shirt can save the day if combined with the right accessories. It’s perfect for both a beach day with a swimsuit beneath and a cocktail party with a pair of denim shorts or wide-leg trousers, heels, and sparkling jewellery.
Tank top
The ribbed tank is an elevated version of the classic t-shirt, and just like its ‘bigger brother’, it has become one of the staples of a summer capsule wardrobe – and not only. Reminiscent of the simplicity of the 1980s, this piece of clothing is just what you may need to feel confident and comfortable with your body. There are hundreds of combination options, but some of our favourites include wearing a pair of high-waisted, wide-leg jeans and ballet flats for casual wear or a relaxed blazer for added polish with minimal effort.
You can buy this piece in neutrals like black, white, and beige, as these colours are likely to work with everything, but if you feel more adventurous, don’t hesitate to go for that bold red that has caught your eye.
Oversized stripe shirt
A striped shirt is one of the go-tos when it comes to clean classics. Similar to the eternal white shirt, this piece has the simplicity of the former, but the striped print is that twist that can turn every basic suit into a well-thought-out outfit. Combined with a pair of skinny jeans or taken to the next level with a bodysuit beneath and a pair of high-waist denim shorts, this piece of clothing can turn heads. Besides, it’s perfect for both casual and formal wear, so whether you decide to wear it for a stroll around the town or at a cocktail party, combined with a pair of suit trousers and precious jewellery, it’s a perfect choice. For a relaxed summer look on the beach, a cotton or linen stripe shirt would look great with a swimsuit beneath and a headwrap like those from AfricanFabs. Don’t forget accessories can transform any ‘boring’ outfit, so ensure you choose the ones that best align with your personality.
Long denim shorts
The times of struggling to find the perfect pair of denim shorts that’s neither ultra-short nor ultra-rigid are gone. Today, you have a bunch of options in softer materials, high waists, and lengths. A long pair of denim shorts will look dressier and make an impression wherever you wear them. Combined with the right clothes and accessories, they go beyond basic. For an everyday look, consider combining them with a flowy linen shirt, a pair of comfy sandals, and a statement African print fabric headwrap, whose distinctive models and colours will set you apart wherever you spend a hot summer day.
Ballet flats
Flats have never been out of the limelight, but in 2023 these pieces are truly en vogue. So, expect to see this kind of shoe everywhere this spring-summer season. The Gossip Girl-era cap-toe shoes are back and bigger than ever, but you’re probably aware of this since many celebrities have declared themselves fans of ballerinas. Bella Hadid is a real enthusiast of ballet flats, and you will get a lot of inspiration from her recent outfits featuring these pieces if you open the Pinterest app.
Miu Miu ballerina shoes are some of the most popular shoes of this sort, and for a good reason, but if you don’t have the budget for a pair of designer flats, not a problem. Numerous premium and mass-market brands have explored this trend and put up for sale various models of ballerina shoes. Thus, you can find the eternal, simple model and also pairs that have taken the classic ballerinas to the next level with eye-catching embellishments. At the moment, a ballet flat seems to be the only shoe that matters – Vogue approves of this.
Summer is coming, and we’re sure you’re going to turn many heads with these outfit ideas. Many of the pieces mentioned above are probably already in your closet, so you only need to choose the right accessories.