6 Cool-Girl Items That Will Be Everywhere This Summer (And How to Style Them)
If summer fashion had a love language, it would be effortless confidence. And every few months, the style world quietly agrees on a handful of key pieces—items that aren't just trends, but invitations to express ease, personality, and self-trust through what you wear.
The truth is, getting dressed well isn’t about chasing what’s “in.” It’s about feeling rooted in your body, your energy, and the version of yourself you’re stepping into this season. A thoughtfully styled outfit can do more than just draw compliments—it can be the thing that anchors you on a chaotic day, or reminds you of your own cool, calm power when you need it most.
So let’s talk summer staples. Not the throwaways or the overdone. These are six pieces you'll see everywhere—but with the right touches, they’ll feel uniquely yours. We’ll go beyond surface styling and explore how each item can support your confidence and mindset this season.
Because yes, it’s fashion—but it’s also function, feeling, and presence. And that matters.
1. The Summer Dress: Isabel Marant’s Joya Braided Cotton-Gauze Maxi
It’s the kind of dress that makes you look put-together even when you're just running errands or sitting barefoot in a friend’s backyard.
Pair it with minimal, modern accessories to balance the softness. A chunky sandal, matte gold hoops, or a sleek claw clip grounds the look. For cooler evenings, throw on a lightweight utility jacket or slouchy cardigan—something that adds contrast to the romantic feel.
Feeling bold? Add edge with a leather crossbody or western-inspired boots. Let the dress be your base, not your whole story.
2. The Denim Skirt: Guess’s Lia Denim Midi
It’s cool-girl coded in that elusive, "I'm not trying" way. It also works with nearly everything: tanks, oversized button-downs, ballet flats, boots. And yet, it still feels unexpected—a stylish curveball in a sea of cutoffs and linen.
Make it your base layer. Tuck in a slightly cropped ribbed tank (we’ll get to that), or do a half-tuck with a vintage tee. If you want polish, belt it and add loafers. If you’re leaning into softness, pair it with a billowy blouse or boxy cotton poplin.
Not sure it’s “your style”? Try styling it the way you would jeans—but add just 10% more intention. That’s the power of the denim midi. It doesn’t need to scream to stand out.
Styling Insight: If you’re petite, look for a mid-rise that doesn’t chop your frame. If you’re tall, lean into the drama—go longer, add a slit, let the lines work for you.
3. The Enduring Tank Top: COS Ribbed Tank
Why it works? The higher neckline elongates, the ribbing skims instead of clings, and the thicker straps make layering easy without exposing every bra strap you’ve ever owned.
Don’t underestimate what a tank can do. Under a blazer? Chic. With linen trousers and a chain necklace? Polished. On its own with bike shorts? Casual but cool. The real trick is in how you accessorize the silhouette—add contrasting textures like silk, denim, or raffia to keep it dimensional.
If you're trying to build a wardrobe that supports emotional ease and clarity, this is a core piece. It removes the “what should I wear” brain fog and gives you a reliable anchor to build around.
4. The Recycled Woven Bag: JW PEI’s Johanna Ivory Shoulder Bag
What sets it apart is its shape: roomy enough for essentials, stylish enough to dress up your most casual fits. Plus, it’s made from recycled materials, which makes it not just pretty—but purposeful.
Lean into texture play. This bag adds depth to flat outfits—think all-black linen, a simple slip dress, or an otherwise monochrome look. Use it to soften tailored outfits, or pair it with denim and sandals for a balanced finish.
And yes, it travels well. If you’re bouncing between errands, beach days, and dinner plans, this bag transitions effortlessly. Practicality can be cute.
What’s one item in your wardrobe that you carry but don’t enjoy carrying? What would shift if you replaced it with something that felt light, reliable, and aligned?
5. The Boho Blouse: Boden’s Cutwork Embroidered Top
This blouse is for the days when you want to feel beautiful but not styled. It floats. It breathes. It reminds you that softness can be strength.
Tuck it into high-rise trousers for a Sunday brunch. Layer it under overalls or a jumpsuit for something playful. Wear it half-buttoned over a swimsuit on vacation. Add red lipstick or a low bun if you’re trying to channel “stylish European grandmother.”
This isn’t a one-look wonder. It’s a “feel like myself” piece—and that’s always in style.
6. The Beachy Sandals: Birkenstock Madrid Big Buckle Slides
Birkenstocks used to be polarizing. Now, they’re aspirational. Functional, unfussy, and full of styling range.
Go high/low. Pair them with a silky slip skirt and tank. Or keep it minimal with cotton shorts and an oversized button-down. Add gold jewelry or a scarf tied around your bag to offset the utilitarian vibe.
This sandal is proof that you don’t have to choose between comfort and aesthetic. You can walk taller because your feet don’t hurt.
Pro Tip: Break them in before your first big outing. The footbed molds over time, which means they’ll only get more comfortable the longer you wear them.
Pulse Points!
- Form meets function. The best style staples this summer aren't fussy—they're functional. Look for pieces that are both beautiful and built to support your real life.
- Fabric matters. Breathable cotton, recycled vegan leather, and ribbed knits all offer texture and ease—qualities that support comfort and presence.
- Wear the outfit for you. If it makes you feel like a more grounded, expressive, powerful version of yourself, it’s worth wearing—regardless of what’s trending.
- Invest in fewer, better. Instead of chasing every trend, build a capsule of emotionally intelligent pieces that give you room to move, breathe, and show up fully.
- Confidence starts with comfort. Style doesn’t require discomfort. When you dress in a way that supports your physical and emotional needs, you naturally carry yourself with more confidence.
Style as Self-Support: Why This All Matters
These pieces don’t matter just because they’re trending. They matter because they offer you tools to move through your life more confidently, more comfortably, and with more care.
Getting dressed should support your energy, not drain it. A dress that lets you exhale. A tank that fits right every time. A shoe that carries you through the day without a second thought.
Fashion isn’t just about appearance. It’s about connection—to yourself, to your environment, to the day you’re trying to shape. These pieces make that connection smoother, steadier, and more honest.
