Everyone is excited about spring finally being here, but what I’m excited about is summer, and more particularly – summer staples. Call me too forward-looking or don’t, I’m already craving beach experiences. You know, those very, very rare ones when we can turn our phones off and just embrace the surroundings. Not that we do it.
Before going way too deep into unnecessary descriptions even Hallmark wouldn’t turn into a rom-com, let me explain what’s happening.
If you have devoted yourself to changing (and upgrading) your personal shopping and styling habits, you know the fast lane doesn’t work when it comes to the sustainability transition. So let’s be honest. Sustainability comes at a certain price not everyone can afford. However, I’m still interested in showing that you CAN dress in a very mindful manner without needing to dig for gold.
This post is for those of you who are wondering how to build a summer wardrobe – not one you would laugh at in a year or two. One, that’s for good for years to come. A summer capsule wardrobe you can always rely on.
The list below contains 11 budget-friendly summer staple pieces. They are all both stylish and affordable, so there’s no excuse not to add them to your closet. Each one of them is selected to help you with the first step on the otherwise long road. It’s an exciting journey you’re starting here. Each decision you make on pieces adds the masterpiece that will be your wardrobe. It requires care and attention. After all, I think it’s about stopping the reckless consumption of trendy clothes and moving towards a well-thought wardrobe with basic clothes that could be worn in thousands of different combinations.
Now, as the Tiësto hit says, let’s get down, let’s get down to business.
11 BUDGET-FRIENDLY SUMMER STAPLES NEEDED IN YOUR 2022 CAPSULE WARDROBE:
1. White Linen Shirt

Just the way you can’t imagine Anna Wintour without her dark black sunglasses, I cannot NOT begin a summer staples list without mentioning the white linen shirt. Being one of the absolute summer must-haves, it’s a piece you can use either for layering or for a stand-alone impression.
Put on a pair of denim shorts or a summer staple skirt, add some sparkling jewelry, and you are ready for a dinner date. Throw on a *faux* leather jacket if the night doesn’t seem that young after 3 in the morning.
Here’s an ootd example of how I would style it.
2. Beige Ribbed Tank Top

Thanks to gen Z and everything happening on TikTok, tank tops are back and ready to jump in your wardrobe. Except for being insanely practical and cute, they are perfect for those summer days when it’s too hot to wear any clothes at all.
Call me eager, but I’m adding a couple to my own cart as we speak. I’m sure you won’t regret following my example. Just think of all the compliments coming your way.
3. Jacket Blazer

Straight-cut, relaxed-fit, double-breasted jacket blazer. It’s what you need for the next meeting (that probably could have just been done via email. Supermodels have been enjoying white lately, so if this fact doesn’t tilt the scales, I don’t know what will.
If you fancy a pop of color, try color-blocking with neon yellow or pink trousers and flat sandals. No one wears heels to the beach. Please, let’s make sure it stays this way.
Related Post: Forget Any Of These 15 Beach Essentials And Summer Is Ruined
4. White Wide-Cut Pants

Alright. I understand if you want to crawl into a hole when you see white pants and imagine all the terrible things that could happen to them.
Barbecue condiments, bloody marys, and berry jam aside, they are one of the ultimate classic summer staples that will never go out of style. At least until something better comes along. Any ideas? I’m waiting.
5. Linen T-Shirt

This gorgeous t-shirt is not only made of 100% linen, but it’s going to solve all potential dilemmas when you are in a rush, and still want to make it to the coffee shop for an iced latte… without being 2 hours late.
One more example. No matter if you are going out to pick up the latest issue of Vogue or to get some groceries from the local market, you will be the stylish girl from uptown. Just don’t forget your rectangle sunglasses. I know Hailey Bieber wouldn’t.
6. Linen Shorts

Once the days get longer, the shorts get shorter. This goes without saying, but in case you forgot it, I’m here to remind ya. I’m also here to let you know that linen shorts still offer the ultimate breezy and somehow effortless chic summer staple styles your followers would be happy to see.
Put on a striped t-shirt, cat-eye sunglasses, and hoop earrings. Dumbfound everyone upon your arrival. Including yourself.
7. Everyday Slides

I hope it does not sound like an overstatement, but braided slides are the new platforms in the influencer world. Everyone has been wearing them lately. I even spotted some models wearing them on the streets during Fashion Week. Next stop, Summer Wardrobe 2022.
Now, it’s up to you whether you will or you will not bring Fashion Week to the gang’s summer adventure. I would advise you to skip them in favor of beach visits, though.
You’ll Love This: Your Go-To Capsule Wardrobe List On A Budget
8. Cotton Shirt Dress

Excuse me if you like spending at least three hours in front of the mirror before going out. I prefer using my leisure time for *actual* fun stuff.
With this in mind, packing at least two dresses or other one-piece styles (playsuits are great too!) seems like a very necessary thing to do. Rihanna would absolutely approve this cotton shirt dress.
9. Classy Sunglasses

I may have used this phrase in too many different ways, but I’ll hit you (babies) one more time. Talking about all summer staples 2022 deserves to see without mentioning sunglasses is like doing it while dressed in snow boots, a puffer jacket, and a wool scarf. Translation: Does not make any sense.
While I’m sure by now it goes without saying, I’ll still say this. Sunglasses shall be on the top of your list of summer essentials. You don’t want to ruin your day by avoiding the sun. Plus, how else would you check out the lifeguard? The salad menu, I meant. The salad menu.
10. Timeless Swimsuit

I’m not crazy. Timeless swimsuits exist. At least if you look for them with extra attention. This black V-neck piece with black straps is a bit revealing but will help you avoid the very visible tan line once you are back in the city.
Put it in your beach bag (see what I’m talking about here – and hit the waves somewhere exotic. Thank me later. Or don’t. You’re welcome anyway.
11. Summer Staple Bag

Summer staple bag, where are you now that I need you? Oh, wait. Here you are! You’re white and you are amazing. Excuse me for being so unexpectedly lyrical, but when I see a very simple and yet very practical piece, my soul just gets excited.
Come on, throw in your phone, those sunglasses I recommended, SPF, purse, and you are ready to go. Set your summer style to fabulous. This is going to be a season to remember!
This post was all about budget-friendly summer staples.
*This post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through my links at no extra cost to you. Purchases made through affiliate links are greatly appreciated as they help to support the blog and continue its production. Thank you so much! Read full disclosure here.
Other Posts You May Like:
- MY SUMMER CAPSULE WARDROBE: WHAT TO WEAR IN SUMMER 2022
- 10 SUMMER WARDROBE ESSENTIALS YOU MUST OWN IN SUMMER 2022
- 7 CUTE CASUAL SUMMER DRESSES THAT WILL ALWAYS BE IN FASHION
