The Summer Staple Pieces Your Wardrobe Needs

This summer is making up for last summer's lockdown let-down with the introduction of several new fashion trends that are perfect for getting back out there. The good news is that there are numerous options for summer outfits, whether you are a laid-back, athleisure type or a social butterfly who loves to party. But if you are a minimalist or are just overwhelmed at the many possibilities, we've narrowed down the trends to a few key staples you need to add to your summer 2021 capsule wardrobe.

Maxi and midi dresses are a major staple this season, per Women's Health. Dresses you definitely want to add to your closet include a floral maxi dress, midi slip dress, and a wrap dress. According to Harper's Bazaar, slip dresses in summer colors like white, fuchsia and orange will particularly stand out. Vogue recommends pairing dresses with open-toe sandals and block heels, especially those with square-toes. Dresses with side cutouts are making a comeback, per Cosmopolitan. With several parts of the world experiencing heat waves and high temperatures, linen dresses have become especially popular (via Today). The cool thing is that linen and side cutouts will also help keep you cool for the summer.

Tops that involve strappy details laced around the torso, like the Rowan Top from MIAOU, are especially trending now, per Cosmopolitan. Scarf-inspired halter tops that cross over your chest have taken over Instagram feeds. But if you want a more modest take, you can also try scarf tops like the Akira Keep Lookin Paisley Print Scarf Top (via InStyle). Crochet tops are also trendy this summer, per Vogue. PopSugar also suggests stocking up on leggings, which can be paired with dressier tops and worn outside of the gym.

Bright, printed tops and dresses are in style this summer from tropical florals to psychedelic marble prints, per Refinery29. InStyle recommends buying a pair of bright, plaid pants to pair with a neutral top, as well as a lightweight midi skirt to pair with a tank-top. Marie Claire reports that pastels are also popular this summer. Stocking up on neutral staples like slacks, blazers and tops, is also a good idea as they will make it easier to mix-and-match with colorful separates.

Wide-leg jeans have made a comeback, which has become a controversial trend across generational lines, per InStyle. If this trend excites you, then go ahead and invest in a good pair of "dad jeans" like these Levi's Dad Jeans. If you want a more feminine take on the wide leg jeans trend, you can also try bootcut or flared legs (via TheMomEdit). 

But if you're not going to give up your skinny jeans anytime soon, that's completely understandable. Unlike some of what the clickbait headlines may tell you, skinny jeans are not out, per Who What Wear. Skinny jeans in classic blue washes are more popular now than the lighter washes from past recent seasons. Speaking of denim, investing in a denim jacket is also recommended, which can be paired with dresses or a t-shirt and jeans, per Trend Spotter. No matter what staples you choose to invest in, just remember there's nothing more stylish than wearing what you want to wear and owning it with confidence.