My Summer 2026 Shopping List: Everything I'm Adding (So Far)
21 new pieces, 8 spring carry-overs, and the trends actually shaping my summer wardrobe
Don’t ask me where the time is going - I couldn’t even begin to tell you - but the temps outside are making it clear that spring is coming to a close and the summer season is just around the corner. Which is as good of a reason as any to start thinking about my summer wardrobe: a mix of items in my closet that I love and can’t wait to wear again, plus new ones I’ll be shopping for. Before pulling out my credit card, I’ve put together a shopping list of what I’ll be hunting for:
The Shopping List
Silhouettes for Warmer Temps
Think flowy, lose, easy silhouettes that are going to look elevated while also keeping me cool. Shorts are of course an obvious and classic choice for summer and right now I’m thinking about both a tailored longer short that can be paired with a simple tee for an off-duty look and also a pair of dressier pull-on shorts, maybe in a satin or other fluid fabric. I’m also planning on a great pair of linen pants and maybe a matching set or shift dress? The jury is still out on those but I’ll see what I find.
Pops of Color
I’ll give you one guess of what color I’m thinking. You guys already know. It’s red. But not just any red - tomato red. I’m thinking one or two pieces that can work together or on their own to play up an otherwise neutral outfit. Right now I’m certain that I want to find a button-down shirt. IMO it’s the perfect piece to have for the summer since it can be worn on it’s own a couple different ways but can also act as a light jacket or third layer worn open over a tank or tee.
Easy-Breezy Textures & Details
Linen. Silk. Eyelet. Lace. These fabrics are going to give interest to our looks since we won’t have the benefit of layering for interest like we do in other seasons. 1000% a pair of linen trousers are a must. A classic linen blazer will also be sought out. I’ll be keeping an eye out for other pieces that fit the bill here. Oh, and we can’t forget about prints too! Stripes are definitely another way to add some interest this summer without any bulk.
Accessories
Another must for summer are accessories - they’ll do some heavy lifting without adding warmth. I love a raffia bag for the season, a pair of oversized sunnies, and maybe a scarf or colorful necklace to plus up to our neutral bases.
What I’m Carrying Over From Spring
Not everything from my spring rotation gets retired the second the temperature climbs. A few pieces from Spring Essentials will still be in heavy rotation through to August.
Curating My Summer Essentials
Stay tuned for how this shopping list evolves into my finished summer capsule - it’s all moving parts and tbh most times I’m shopping for these things, I’ll sporadically find a gem that wasn’t even on my radar. Pieces will get crossed off, swapped, or added - a lot changes when I actually start seeing things in person, trying them on, etc. I’ll share my final Summer Essentials in a few weeks.
In the meantime: what’s on your summer shopping list? I’m always taking suggestions, and the best replies tend to send me down a rabbit hole that ends in a new favorite piece. Hit reply and tell me what you’re hunting for.
xx,
Amy
Got the red poplin shirt🍅 thanks for finding