Summer Closet Essentials

I'm pleased to announce that I've teamed up with Raise, a new marketplace where you can buy discounted gift cards to your favorite brands and sell your unused gift cards for cash! They are hosting an interactive campaign called "Closet Swap," in which I get to share some of my summer style must-haves with other fashion enthusiasts. Here are some tips on how to dress for the scorching season!

Dainty Dresses: My absolute favorite silhouette is the slip/sheath dress. I'm more on the petite and not-so-curvy side, so I find that shapeless fits look most flattering on my body type. Here are a few of my favorite summer dresses from Brandy Melville, Love Culture, Wet Seal, Tobi, and my beloved maxi from Charlotte Russe!

Distressed Denims: If you haven't seen my high waisted shorts collection, head over to this post to check out my favorite styles! I think distressed shorts are perfect for hot weather because they're very effortless and casual but also super stylish and versatile. Pair them with a basic white tee, crop top, or loose tank and you've got a cute summer outfit! Distressed boyfriend jeans are also great for summer because they're a lot more loose-fitting and comfortable than regular skinny jeans.

Crop tops: I honestly think crop tops are year-round staples, but since there's such a vast variety, here are some styles that are perfectly suited for the upcoming season. Halter tops show a more classic take on the typical tank top because of the high neckline, and they also accentuate your shoulders in a very flattering way. A basic white tee is an absolute must-have in your closet because you can literally wear anything with it and even dress it up or down. Bralettes, especially the ones with caged backs, are also very convenient layering pieces for open-back dresses and sheer cardigans.

Kimono: If there's any outerwear you need in the summer, it's a chiffon kimono. Kimonos are practically everywhere nowadays, so you shouldn't have a problem finding one. They're perfect for scorching weathers because they're so lightweight and breezy. They also come in a plethora of prints and colors, and you can even make your own out of a scarf! Here's my attempt based on LaurDIY's tutorial!

Gladiator/Strappy Sandals: There are so many variations of gladiator sandals ranging from heels to flats, but these are some of my picks. My absolute favorite pair right now is my Perforated Ankle Cuff Sandals from Charlotte Russe (pictured in the middle).

Head wear: Whether it's a flower crown, floppy hat, or stylish head wrap, I think hair accessories couldn't be more perfect for a bright sunny day. I'm really loving the flower crown trend this season because it makes everyone look so ethereal and feminine! I think that floppy hats always add a more classic and mature touch to any outfit, and what better way to shield your face from the heat than with a sophisticated wide-brimmed hat? I also love how head wraps look because they give that bohemian, hippie-chic vibe.

Sunnies: Last but not least, don't forget your shades! I've been loving round frames lately, but I think that slightly oversized rimless sunglasses look best on my face shape. Reflective aviators are worth a try if you want to don a cool statement piece. All these super cute and affordable sunglasses can be found at SunglassSpot.com!
That's all for my summer closet essentials. It seems like a lot to take in, but I'm sure you already have most of these in your wardrobe. With these fashion must-haves, you'll be all set for beach weather! Don't forget to check out Raise.com and their blog for more summer style inspiration from other fashion bloggers by the end of May!
Thanks for reading and I'll catch you on my next one! xoxo,