Happy Summer Solstice!
The weather in Charlotte is ultra-dreary today (I’m not even sure we’re going to see the sun on this, the longest day), but I’ve had sunny style on the brain for months.
I’ve missed bringing you these fun, seasonal wish lists, so I’m dipping my toe back in with a little roundup of travel-ready pieces for Summer 2023.
This post is not sponsored by any of the brands listed here but does contain affiliate links.
For me, Summer dressing can only be enjoyable if it’s easy. The last thing I want to do on a sweltering day is try to waste my precious energy trying to figure out what to wear, or deciding if this top pairs with these pants (and yes, friends, there will be pants thanks to places with overexcited air conditioning units).
So – without further ado, here’s what I have my eye on this travel season:
DRESSES + JUMPSUITS
One of the wonderful things about growing older is recognizing what colors, fits, and fabrics you feel best in – and for me, those are neutrals and earth tones, a bit of waist definition, and an overarching preference for natural fibers. Those are all present in these gorgeous dresses and jumpsuits, but something that feels a bit new for me this season is skin. Whether it’s through a cutout (à la dresses one and three), a dramatic open back (like in that gorgeous rust jumpsuit), or all-over sheer (as in this crochet dress – save 15% with code WAYWARD20) I’m feeling a bit more comfortable with a strategic show of skin.
TOPS
This is a category that is admittedly lower on my priority list, but it’s really fun to scour the internet for tops now that “going out tops” have made their return. At least two have caught my eye (numbers two and three above), but practicality is still my default. If I add any tops to my wardrobe this summer, they’ll be lightweight, well-made, and preferably have pockets – like this pickpocket-proof one (psst… save 10% with code WAYWARDBLOG).
BOTTOMS
If you peeked in my drawers just a few years ago, you would have only found two pairs of shorts – and I was living in Florida at the time. I’m really just not a fan of the way they look on me, not to mention the way you always stick to everything you sit on when it’s hot outside. But there are times when there’s just no better alternative, so I’m sticking with high-waisted, longish inseam versions in easygoing colors (see one and two, above). Otherwise, I’m looking to add to my skirt collection with a 90s-inspired midi skirt and snag a pair of airy pants for those chilly plane rides (bonus points for passport pockets!).
SHOES
Shoes are a category I both love and loathe. Sure, they always fit – but choose the wrong pair for travel, and you’ll quickly regret it. Today’s garment silhouettes call for a mix of substantial and slim-profile shoes, so I’ve got a little of both on my list. Flat sandals will always have a home in my wardrobe (see one and two), and in these colors, they’ll go with just about everything. I’m also feeling drawn to some current trends, like platform sandals, ballet flats, and high-top sneakers, and I’m not mad about it. And for summer outings and fall weddings, I feel like a sturdy-heeled sandal is a great option (save 20% with code WAYWARD20).
SWIM
I don’t get enough mileage out of my swimwear to warrant a new suit each season, but thanks to weight fluctuations over the past few years, it might be time to add a new one into the mix. I’m kind of loving the retro vibes of this bikini, and the potential to go from the pool to drinks in this one-piece and cover-up.
ACCESSORIES
I’m calling it – 2023 is going to be #hatgirlsummer (at least for me). I’m not quite sure if I can pull off a bucket hat, but I won’t know until I try, right? I’m hoping to expand my tiny collection of handbags this summer with some warm-weather options (like this crossbody and this straw tote), and perhaps even go super minimal at times with a crossbody phone case.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON SUMMER 2023 STYLE
I confess to having spent past summers almost completely indoors, but this year I’m hoping to not let the heat stop me from getting out and enjoying the great outdoors (even if it’s just sitting on a patio at a brewery!). Feeling comfortable in my clothing is generally motivation enough for me – and if not, getting out and traveling certainly is. These stylish and packable pieces may be just the ticket to a delightful summer season…
Enjoyed this post? You may also like:
- 2019 Summer Travel Style Wish List
- 2018 Summer Style Wish List
- Nisolo Go-To Flatform Sandal Review
- A Dress with Something to Hide: A Review of The Roma Wrap Dress from wayre
- Summer-Ready Style: A Review of ABLE’s Maria Boxy Tee and Jules Tennis Dress
- Three Ways to Style the Perfect Block Sandal from Sarah Flint
- Traveling Light: Packing a Liquids Bag for Summer Travel
- Essential Women’s Summer Travel Shoes
- Exclusive Discounts + Promo Codes
- All of My Summer Packing Lists
- Shop My Closet
- Style Reviews by Brand
