The Summer Wardrobe Starter: A Flexible, Feel-Good Checklist (For All Sizes)
a feel-good summer wardrobe checklist
plus a few brand suggestions to help you get started!
You don’t need a 30-piece capsule or a complete wardrobe overhaul to feel good this summer.
Sometimes, all it takes is a little clarity: a few pieces that make you feel held, comfortable, and ready for whatever the heat (and life!) brings.
This isn’t a list of “must-haves.” It’s a gentle starting point: a flexible, size inclusive summer style checklist to help you get dressed with more ease and less overthinking.
Every item is a category, not a specific product—because style isn’t one-size-fits-all, and your summer wardrobe should work for you :)
Always take my words as advice and not prescription.
Your Feel-Good Summer Wardrobe Checklist
1. A breathable base layer you can build around
Think: tanks, shell tops, tees, crop tops in natural fibres.
Choose a neckline that you enjoy, rather than opting for the frequently recommended “classic” ones you see over and over again (unless that’s what you truly like!)
What to look for:
• cotton, linen, or Tencel blends
• soft structure and drape (depending on your preference)
• remember: ensure it is easy to layer under lightweight layering pieces, button-downs or summer jackets for more versatility
• uniform handmade has some great essential tops for warm weather dressing, as does eileen fisher.
2. An everyday bottom that feels reliable and comfortable
Think: wide-leg pants, culottes, an easy midi skirt.
What to look for:
• adjustable waistbands, drawstrings, or stretch
• something that moves with you and encourages airflow
• again, natural fibres are key. if you’re picky about your clothing appearing “wrinkled”, you might want to opt for a cotton over linen
• my all-time fave summer bottoms are from free label’s cotton crepe line, as well as eileen fisher’s organic wide-leg trousers (ps: for transparency, this link is an affiliate link!).
3. A one-and-done outfit option
Think: a soft summer dress or relaxed romper, if that is your preference.
What to look for:
• something that doesn’t need much styling, for an easy throw-on-and-go look
• good airflow and comfortable, breathable fabric
• pockets, if that’s important to you!
• my current fave dresses are coming from off/on (you can contact them for custom plus sizing, they’re very kind and helpful—and their custom sizing turned out super accurate)
4. A lightweight layer for sun, AC, or modesty
Think: gauze shirts, linen shirts, dual purpose swim cover-ups, cropped jackets, dusters
What to look for:
• breathable materials and tons of movement
• easy to throw on and take off
• sun protection without heaviness
• i’m going to call out free label here as well! you simply cannot go wrong with their cotton crepe pieces.
5. A warm-weather outfit that brings you joy—helps you feel creative and expressive
This can be anything! A bold print (even if you don’t usually have a ton of pattern in your looks), a matching set in your favourite on-trend colour, a dress with tons of ruffles or texture.
What to look for:
• something you want to wear, even if it doesn’t feel practical!
• makes you feel playful!
6. Comfortable footwear that works with your lifestyle
Think: sandals, supportive flats, slip-ons, or easy sneakers.
What to look for:
• comfort and aesthetics—don’t settle for one or the other!
• can handle heat, sweat, and movement
• works with at least a few of your outfits
• i’m currently loving poppy barley for wide-width footwear options that are as luxuriously comfortable as they are cute
7. A few signature accessories that can change up your look
Think: a great sunhat, a woven bag, bold sunnies or a fun lip.
What to look for:
• small things that help you play with, polish up, or personalize your look
• not necessary, but fun to lean on when you want a change
• can help you adjust your looks for different levels of formality
• i love the size inclusive eyewear options from sol kyst
You don’t need to overhaul everything to feel good in your clothes this season.
Sometimes, all it takes is a few aligned pieces and a shift in perspective!
→ Explore Styling Support
→ Say hello: hi@heensie.style