As pop hits blast in our headphones, hot dogs sizzle on the grill, and sand seeps into every corner of our beach bags, we’re officially in summer mode. And at Refinery29, that means embracing all the good vibes through our fashion choices.
We’re particularly eager to share our go-to denim shorts and summer dresses, along with heat-wave-ready accessories like sandals, baseball caps, and statement belts — that instantly pull a look together. We’ve also included what’s making it into our packed bags to build the best vacation outfits. Think: Foldable ballet flats, water-resistant anklets, and blister-fighting socks.
Ahead, find 17 editor-approved items of clothing, shoes, and accessories we’ll be wearing on repeat — from reader-favorite brands like Madewell, & Other Stories, and Jenny Bird to new discoveries like Chord and Shezza.
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
For more can’t-miss shopping stories delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our Most Wanted newsletter.
Madewell Poplin Smocked Maxi Dress
“I’m a dress girl through and through. Correction: I’m a long dress girl. Come summer, the only viable option on the hottest days is a non-clingy cotton style — and this one from Madewell is my ideal. The length? Perfection. The smocking? Skims the body just right without feeling suffocating. And the red? The exact punchy shade I reach for in the summer.” — Laura Lajiness Kaupke, Contributing Editor
Shop Madewell
Madewell Poplin Smocked Maxi Dress, $, available at MadewellPhoto: Courtesy of Laura Lajiness.
Paige Dani Short
“I’ve been hunting for denim shorts with a flared, A-line silhouette that aren’t uncomfortable — and these are it. The denim is soft and lived-in, making them great for travel, and the contrast stitching and pintuck pleat give off a ’70s vibe I love, especially with a brown leather belt. I’ll be living in these all summer.” — Venus Wong, Senior Writer
Shop Paige
PAIGE Dani Short, $, available at PAIGEPhoto: Courtesy of Venus Wong.
Rothy’s The Square Mary Jane
“I got these Mary Janes at the end of last summer and they’ve been my go-to for every warm-weather moment since. They’re incredibly comfortable and a must-pack for trips — they bend easily and tuck into any suitcase crevice. Plus: The bright red adds the perfect pop to my otherwise minimal summer looks.” — Irina Grechko, Fashion Director
Shop Rothy’s
Rothy’s The Square Mary Jane, $, available at Rothy’sPhoto: Courtesy of Irina Grechko.
Gap × Dôen Eyelet Top
“I was so excited for the second Gap x Dôen collab and shopped early to snag this cotton eyelet top. It’s a signature Dôen silhouette — airy, embroidered, and easy to style with jeans, skirts, or even office trousers. A perfect summer staple.” — Lisa Dionisio, Newsletter Director
Shop Gap
Gap x Dôen Eyelet Top, $, available at GapPhoto: Courtesy of Lisa Dionisio.
& Other Stories Alpaca-Blend Knit Cardigan & Nobody’s Child Broderie Anglaise Maxi Skirt
“When in doubt, I always go back to this outfit formula: white skirt, red top, red ballet flats. It’s sweet, timeless, and just feels like summer — fresh berries, picnics, classic gingham, and listening to Lana Del Rey on repeat. (Don’t ask me why, but she’s a red-and-white vibe to me.)” — Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer
Shop Nobody’s Child
& Other Stories Alpaca-Blend Knitted Cardigan, $, available at & Other Stories
Nobody’s Child Broderie Anglaise Maxi Skirt, $, available at Nobody’s ChildPhoto: Courtesy of Esther Newman.
Dr. Scholl’s x Favorite Daughter Heartbreak Sandal
“Dr. Scholl’s clog sandals were already iconic — now they’re even better, thanks to this new Favorite Daughter collaboration. The croc leather uppers and kitten heel give them a more evening update. I went with the chocolate brown, and I’m obsessed. Paired with a mini skirt, dress, or capris, they make me feel like I stepped out of a ‘90s rom-com or early-aughts episode of Sex and The City.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Fashion Writer
Shop Dr. Scholl’s
Dr. Scholl’s x Favorite Daughter Heartbreak Sandal, $, available at Dr. Scholl’sPhoto: Courtesy of Victoria Montalti.
Sach Atelier Hail Belt
“Sach Atelier has been flooding my feed lately, and for good reason. This handmade, non-leather belt blends South Asian jewelry traditions with Y2K energy. The mirrored silver threading adds a bold touch to floaty skirts or jeans — I’m deeming it my pop princess concert fit essential. — Alicia Lansom, Culture Editor
Shop Sach Atelier
Sach Atelier Hail Belt, $, available at Sach AtelierPhoto: Courtesy of Alicia Lansom.
Summer Away Deia Shorts
“Okay, I’m decidedly not a shorts person. And yet — here I am, inching my way out of my comfort zone. And what better gateway than a zany green striped short? The mid-thigh length feels polished enough to dress up, while still delivering carefree summer fun. Also: no chafing (bless). Styled with an oversized button-down and low heels, I’m somehow comfy and feeling myself. A new era.” — Laura Lajiness Kaupke, Contributing Editor
Shop Summer Away
Summer Away Deia Shorts, $, available at Summer AwayPhoto: Courtesy of Laura Lajiness.
Shezza Lace Socks
“My Dr. Martens 1461 Bex Oxfords have gathered dust for two years because they destroy my ankles — until now. Shezza socks have built-in heel padding, and they’re totally changed the game. These lace ones look great with my Docs, ballet flats, and Mary Janes. I also got the black crew socks for Glastonbury — fingers crossed they save my feet from festival miles.” — Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer
Shop Shezza
Shezza Lace Socks, $, available at ShezzaPhoto: Courtesy of Esther Newman.
Jenny Bird Dane Anklet & Dhani Anklet
“I wear Jenny Bird jewelry on the regular, and these anklets are my latest obsession. The Dane is like an ankle bangle — sleek, oval-shaped, and water-resistant. The hidden closure is genius. I’ve been pairing it with the chunky chainlink Dhani anklet in the 10-inch sizes for a fresh, stacked look.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Fashion Writer
Shop Jenny Bird
Jenny Bird Dane Anklet, $, available at Jenny Bird
Jenny Bird Dhani Anklet, $, available at Jenny BirdPhoto: Courtesy of Victoria Montalti.
Chord Ivory Bouclé Cap
“I have plenty of baseball hats, but I’ve long struggled to find a quality, minimalistic one without a logo that actually fits well. This high-end brand nails the details: luxe hardware, leather strap closure, and, most importantly, a brown sweatband that hides makeup stains. While the brand offers styles in a range of fabrications from cotton to denim, I love this textured bouclé version that I’ve worn nonstop since it arrived.” — Irina Grechko, Fashion Director
Shop Chord
Chord Ivory Bouclé Cap, $, available at ChordPhoto: Courtesy of Irina Grechko.
Peachaus Striped Ethical-cotton Pyjama Shorts
“These boxer shorts have become my top pick from Peachaus’s lightweight cotton set. I wear them for nearly everything — sleeping, working from home, lounging in the garden, even brunch with a chunky knit and biker boots. I’m already planning to grab a few more colors for summer.” — Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer
Shop Peachaus
Peachaus Lomandra Striped Ethical-Cotton Pyjama Shorts, $, available at PeachausPhoto: Courtesy of Esther Newman.
Toms x Jamie Mizrahi Alp FWD Slip-On Sneaker
“So soft, so comfy, so vibrant. These are the ultimate everyday summer shoes. I usually need time to break this shape in, but these felt perfect from the get-go. The bright purple feels so summery and fun, adding color without being over the top. They look like flower petals and feel just as gentle on my feet.” — Tanyel Mustafa, Senior Writer
Shop Toms
Toms x Jamie Mizrahi Alp FWD Slip-On Sneaker, $, available at TOMSPhoto: Courtesy of Tanyel Mustafa.
Levi’s High Rise Baggy Linen+Denim Lightweight Shorts
“These are easily some of the most comfortable shorts I own — the linen-denim blend is breathable, lightweight, and made for hot days. They’re not stretchy, but the mid-thigh cut and wider hems offer coverage without riding up or chafing. I’ve been reaching for them daily.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Fashion Writer
Shop Levi’s
Levi’s High Rise Baggy Linen+Denim Lightweight Shorts, $, available at Levi’sPhoto: Courtesy of Victoria Montalti.
Birkenstock Florida Fresh Nubuck Leather Sandals
“I live, laugh, love in my Birks. My OG Arizonas have lasted six years, but I wanted a pair that felt a little more refined for everyday wear — enter the Florida Fresh. The slimmer straps and soft sage hue are a perfect match for light denim and summer whites.” — Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer
Shop Birkenstock
Birkenstock Florida Fresh, $, available at BirkenstockPhoto: Courtesy of Esther Newman.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Best Summer Fashion Picks Under $150
These 19 Summer Haircut Trends Are A Total Reset
25 Hot-Weather Outfits For A Summer Vacation
