15 Under-$100 Key Items to Invest in for Summer

Summer is just around the corner (36 days to be exact), and I for one, am already starting to crave some floatier fabrics and a lot less layers as the temps start to rise. While we may not be traveling as much or attending as many summer soirée's like in summers past, that doesn't mean we can't still enjoy some new-season (guilt-free!) retail therapy.

Today, I'm rounding up some of the key, of-the-moment pieces you'll want to get your hands on to create a well-rounded summer wardrobe. From elevated basics such as rib knit tanks to trend-forward pieces such as long tailored suit shorts and trending accessories such as baseball hats, scroll below for the 15 key items to invest in for summer 2020. The best part? All the picks are under $100 so you can update your warm-weather look without spending a fortune.

No summer wardrobe is complete without a staple white tank top. The basic has been dominating Instagram lately, with fashion girls pairing the top with sweats and skirts alike. Opt for elevated details such as a ribbed knit fabric or a high neckline.

While there are plenty of chic sandal trends for the taking this summer (thong sandals, lace-up sandals, and chain straps to name a few), chunky flatform sandals (which we saw all over the S/S 2020 runways) are one of our favorite styles. Not only are these super comfy, but they also look super cool with everything from sweatshorts to floral dresses.

Suit shorts and long tailored shorts are trending hard for summer 2020—exuding a relaxed sophistication. Go for a high-waisted neutral pair that will pair easily with tank tops, tees and blouses.

An effortless white dress will be your sartorial savior through summer—especially one in a voluminous, billowy silhouette that's comfortable and easy enough to wear in and out of the house.

One of this season's biggest sunglasses trends is oversize '70s retro styles that will add a cool touch to every ensemble. Wear with a baggy tee and another summer accessory must-have: a chic hair scarf.

A loose and relaxed oversize button-down shirt is one of the most versatile items you'll own. Wear it with shorts, over a slip dress, under a knit crop top… the choices are endless. A classic white or blue hue will pair well with everything.

Handbags made of natural textures such as straw, wicker, and raffia are a summertime favorite. This season, we're seeing more polished iterations such as leather-trimmed raffia bags and structured silhouettes.

This summer, invest in high-waisted bikinis and retro silhouettes to soak up the sun in style.

Floral frocks are practically made for summer. This season, go for trending details such as smocking and puffy sleeves.

While you can definitely play with craftsy summer jewelry, a gold collar necklace continues to reign supreme as the fashion-girl jewelry of choice. Style over your tanks and tees.

A pretty milkmaid or prairie top—featuring lace-up detailing, shirred bodices, square necklines and bows—are perfect for pairing with your summer skirts, shorts, and pants.

Now that we're all spending more time at home, sweatshorts and athletic shorts have really risen to the top of our summer wish list. Denim shorts will always be a go-to, but the more comfortable nature of sweatshorts are a favorite right now as we continue in quarantine.

Yes, a straw hat is great for summer, but a baseball hat is what fashion girls are gravitating to this year. The sporty accessory is trending hard right now and is the perfect cool-girl piece to wear with your casual summer outfits.

A light layer (even in summer) is a must, and nothing looks cuter than a charming cropped cardigan.

A lightweight midi skirt is a chic alternative to jeans and shorts this summer and will pair perfectly with the white tank top, flatform sandals, and raffia bag we mentioned above.

Up next, we're crushing hard on summer's 10 biggest bag trends.