Welcome to our World's Best Shoppers series, a monthly feature in which we tap into the shopping leaders of the fashion world—the best fashion directors, buyers, and stylists—for sartorial insight on what to buy each season.
Spring is only just beginning yet the slight rise in temps already has me dreaming of the brighter, hopeful summer season ahead. In the sartorial department, summer brings with it plenty of light, cool, and fresh pieces to get excited about. So what exactly should we be adding to our wardrobes this warm-weather season?
I tapped into a handful of savvy fashion experts to share the must-have pieces they'll be buying, wearing, and Instagramming this summer 2021. From bright dresses to spark joy and of-the-moment sandals to wear with them, take a peek below as the world's best shoppers share their must-have picks for the season ahead.
"This summer will be all about cropped tops—I like how charming this one is and so versatile at the same time. Jacquemus is one of my favorite brands and I currently have three of the same styles in my shopping bag.”
"I am obsessed with the Nylon Prada collection and this dress is one of the many items that I love. It’s the perfect version of a timeless, modern yet sexy party dress. It's also perfect to wear for just strolling in the sun”
"I am loving a good green moment and this dream update of a cool and sexy sandal by Bottega Veneta will brighten up your summer days”
"This season is all about items that will lift your mood and what better way to do so than by adding a pop of color to your wardrobe. This neon dress is sure to brighten anyone’s day, with the drawstring ruching details and the ruffled high-low hem, it’s the perfect fit for outdoor dining dates all summer long."
"I am gushing over retro swimwear for summer and the reemergence of high-waisted bottoms. I will be soaking up the sun in this beautiful two-piece set (both comfortable and flattering)—pairing it with high-waisted denim cutoff shorts for that perfect casual beach day look."
"I absolutely love these high-rise denim shorts with the pleated front and rolled cuff. Paired with my favorite tee and casual sandals, this is a great no-fuss yet elevated look for a summer beach day."
"I consider crop tops wardrobe essentials, especially in the summertime. They are quite versatile, effortlessly pairing well with high-waisted jeans or skirts, of which I have many. This one from Jacquemus is a great option from his iconic Spring '21 runway show."
"Cate Holstein of Khaite can do no wrong, in my opinion. Leave it to her to create the most covetable and summer-appropriate bloomer-style shorts. I envision wearing these with a bikini top or an easy tee (if not the matching bra top!) at the beach or poolside."
"Will the weddings from 2020 that have been rescheduled to summer 2021 go forward? Unclear... but if they do, I will surely be wearing this standout Proenza jersey dress to one of them."
"This dress by Malene Birger is a flattering shape and I love this tan color paired with gold jewelry and brown sandals for an effortless summer look.”
"This little black cotton twill dress by Khaite will be a go-to this summer. I love the idea of adding a gold link bracelet and a flat sandal in a pop color for instant glam."
"I have never been a beach bag girl, but I love the minimalistic nature of this Altuzarra tote. The black leather trim brings a cleaner, more polished vibe, making it perfect for not just the beach, but the office too."
"TOVE is one of my favorite brands at the moment. I love their attention to detail and approach to dressing the modern woman. The white dress for me is a must-have summer staple. The ruching makes it especially perfect for dressing up or down."
"Just looking at this dress makes me happy, not to mention the pure joy I’ll feel wearing it! I love the story of this brand too—designed in London and sustainably made in Ghana, bringing a profound impact to their local community."
"Nothing says summer like a straw handbag. This version is a great new take on the beach tote with an easy crossbody shape, bringing a novel twist to texture and functionality."
"I need my summer sandals to be comfortable and versatile and look equally great with a long romantic dress as they do a pair of jeans. These Schutz sandals will be my go-to for adding some sparkle to my every day."
"I'm loving this bright crimson dress from Mara Hoffman. The feminine neckline and puff sleeve will look great paired with neutral accessories to offset the vibrant red."
Shop the matching Leah Crop Sweatpant ($108). "This baby pink set from 11H Collection is the softest. I will wear the cropped pants with a white tee and the zip top with white jeans. A light and easy 2-in-1 summer look."
"This mini is fun and flirty. The deep navy floral with pops of neon is just a vibe that we all need right now. Super cute styled with sneakers."
Up next, 6 non-boring styling tricks I'm trying this spring.
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Don't Pack Up Your Sweaters Just Yet—Cool Fashion People Are Repurposing Them in the Chicest Way for SummerAll the outfit inspiration is inside.
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Goodbye, Boring Basics—This Is the Elegant Trend New Yorkers Are Wearing With Tank Tops This SummerObsessed.
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3 Aesthetic Pairings to Try If Your Wardrobe's Starting to Feel StaleFoolproof solutions.
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I Can't Stand It When People Follow These Fashion Rules to a TIt's time to break the rules.
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10 Style Tips That Will Make You Look Rich This SummerNumber four is already trending.
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Brand Layering: The Art of Knowing Which Labels to Pair With Each OtherThe ultimate styling hack.
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The Simple Styling Trick That Turns Pencil Skirts From Corporate to Chic in 5 Seconds or LessIt's completely free and ready to copy.
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The Curvy Girl's Guide to Finding Pants That Fit FlawlesslyWaist gap, begone.
