When the heat rolls in and the days stretch long into golden sunsets, there’s a certain magic to the ritual of updating a summer wardrobe. I gravitate toward pieces that breathe, move, and—most importantly—elevate. This season, I’ve fallen head over heels for twelve must-have items that perfectly encapsulate the best of summer 2025: a thoughtful blend of texture, tailoring, comfort, and statement-making charm.
Here’s a detailed walk-through of my favorite pieces right now—how they feel, how they fit, how they move, and how they bring everyday outfits to life.
1. Alaïa’s Ruffled Georgette Peplum Pants
Price: \$3,100
Available at: NET-A-PORTER
These aren’t just pants—they’re a performance. Cut from airy georgette, these tapered Alaïa trousers ripple like ocean waves as you walk. The pleated peplum waist gives off a bold, sculptural flair that’s rare in summer bottoms, but that’s precisely what I love about them. The vibrant butter yellow is a breath of fresh air in a world of neutrals.
Styling Tip: Pair with a fitted linen tank (like the Buck Mason Pointelle) and contrast the delicacy with Dries Van Noten’s chunky sneakers for a runway-meets-reality vibe. A braided shoulder bag from Mango adds a grounded finish.
2. The Row’s Dune Flip-Flop Sandals
Price: \$690
Available at: Bergdorf Goodman
Controversial? Perhaps. Essential? Absolutely. The Row’s Dune sandals reimagine the humble flip-flop with razor-sharp minimalism and luxurious Italian craftsmanship. They’re sleek, sculptural, and—dare I say—elegant.
Styling Tip: I wear them with a white poplin midi skirt and a satin camisole for weekend museum hopping. For something more utilitarian, I style them with denim culottes and a graphic tee. Add a structured tote for polish—think The Row’s East-West canvas bag.
3. Dragon Diffusion’s Bamboo Triple Jump Bag
Price: \$525
Available at: NET-A-PORTER
Woven bags are having a renaissance, and Dragon Diffusion’s handwoven leather tote is the apex. The craftsmanship is meticulous—vegetable-dyed leather, bamboo-style handle, and hand-braided textures that only get better with age.
Styling Tip: It’s the perfect partner for relaxed cotton shirt dresses or paperbag shorts with a tucked-in tank. I love wearing mine to the farmer’s market and later tossing in a light scarf and SPF for a spontaneous picnic.
4. Miu Miu’s Lace-Trimmed Poplin Skirt
Price: \$2,350
Available at: Miu Miu boutiques and online
Poplin is the summer fabric. And Miu Miu? They’ve taken it to couture levels. This skirt’s delicate lace trim, crisp pleats, and romantic silhouette make it a dreamy staple that easily shifts from day to dinner.
Styling Tip: I style this skirt with Dunst’s striped polo for a preppy twist and slip into a pair of Khaite ballerina flats. Add a Saint Laurent crochet bag for texture play.
5. Chloé’s Jelly Thong Sandals
Price: \$590
Available at: Bergdorf Goodman
I never thought I’d wear jelly sandals again after age 12—but Chloé changed my mind. These are not playground shoes. The adult version comes with a refined ankle strap, subtle logo detailing, and a slightly square toe. They’re fashion-forward without the fuss.
Styling Tip: I wear mine with a COS voluminous pleated midi skirt and a navy striped tee tucked in just right. The look’s about playing with proportions and letting the accessories lead the conversation.
6. Jacquemus’s Drop-Waist Cotton Dress
Price: \$1,850
Available at: Nordstrom
This white cotton poplin dress by Jacquemus is summer simplicity at its most sculptural. The drop waist gives it a little edge without compromising on wearability. It’s minimal but never boring, thanks to the expertly placed pleats and breezy fit.
Styling Tip: I love adding Jordan Road’s striped tote bag and colorful resin accessories from Dinosaur Designs. For footwear? Always flat sandals—Khaite’s Loop is my go-to.
7. Tory Burch’s Floral Embellished Tank Top
Price: \$298
Available at: Tory Burch and Nordstrom
A tank with soul. That’s how I’d describe this floral-embellished ribbed tank. The detailing is soft yet impactful—tiny floral appliqués that catch the light and add playfulness to any ensemble.
Styling Tip: I wear it tucked into Toteme’s cocoon skirt for a look that’s as art-gallery ready as it is brunch-friendly. Layering dainty silver chains adds a little glam.
8. Prada’s Noué Macramé Cotton Bag
Price: \$1,990
Available at: Prada boutiques, Moda Operandi
Boho done right. Prada’s macramé bag feels like something your coolest aunt brought back from the Amalfi Coast—but with Prada-level polish. The texture is satisfying and tactile, and it somehow goes with everything.
Styling Tip: I love pairing it with a breezy halterneck dress from Zara and COS’s easy leather flip-flops. Simple, sun-soaked perfection.
9. Juju Vera’s Petra Shell Pendant Necklace
Price: \$595
Available at: Juju Vera online
Silver is back in a big way, and this shell-shaped pendant from Juju Vera hits that sweet spot between nostalgic and contemporary. It dangles just right on the collarbone and adds a bit of personal storytelling to even the most pared-down outfit.
Styling Tip: I layer it with ribbed tanks, sculptural dresses, and blazers alike. It transitions effortlessly from beachside lunches to evening rooftop drinks.
10. Miu Miu’s Logo Clog Slide Sandals
Price: \$895
Available at: Nordstrom
The modern clog is clunky-chic—and Miu Miu nails it with these logo-embellished slides. They’re bold, bohemian, and surprisingly comfy thanks to the molded footbed. I’ve worn them walking all over Montauk and never once felt foot fatigue.
Styling Tip: Perfect with a crocheted tank and Khaite’s white Renta skirt. Toss on Loewe’s Paula’s Ibiza raffia bag and it’s instant cool-girl energy.
11. Dries Van Noten’s Floral Jacquard Wide-Leg Pants
Price: \$875
Available at: SSENSE
Summer doesn’t mean abandoning drama—Dries proves that. These floral jacquard pants have a regal quality, blending oversized florals with rich texture and a flattering, elongated fit.
Styling Tip: I style them down with a simple Levi’s white tank and add Sensi Studio’s straw tote. A pair of mesh ballet flats (Alaïa makes a divine one) gives the whole look modern, editorial edge.
12. The Row’s Barn Market Tote Bag
Price: \$870
Available at: The Row and Bergdorf Goodman
This is the carryall that made me finally retire my old canvas shopper. The Row’s Barn tote is sturdy, structured, and quietly luxurious. It fits everything—from a laptop to three novels—without feeling bulky. The minimal hardware and suede lining make it feel extra special.
Styling Tip: I pair it with cotton co-ords, oversized linen shirting, or even a swimsuit and sarong when I’m heading poolside. It’s understated glamour at its finest.
Where to Shop These Summer Icons
For those in the U.S., here are the platforms I rely on most for these specific pieces:
- NET-A-PORTER (fast shipping, beautifully curated, luxury-heavy)
- SSENSE (great for avant-garde and designer drops)
- Bergdorf Goodman (NYC icon, impeccable inventory)
- Nordstrom (loyal customer service, practical and high-end mix)
- Moda Operandi (great for pre-orders and unique finds)
- REVOLVE (for trendier, wearable versions of runway looks)
- Official Brand Sites (like The Row, Tory Burch, or Jacquemus for exclusives)
This summer has been a masterclass in contrast: airy silhouettes anchored by substantial shoes, minimal palettes brightened with bold textures, and timeless staples reshaped into modern statements. With these twelve pieces, I feel ready for everything from rooftop dinners to barefoot beach strolls, and all the stylish moments in between.
Whether you’re hunting for the perfect summer sandal or finally giving in to the woven bag trend, this list will see you through the hottest months—cool, comfortable, and entirely chic.
Let’s just say: if fashion is seasonal poetry, then summer 2025 is writing in bold, breezy stanzas.
