Summer Staples You Didn’t Know You Needed (Until Now)

Summer Staples You Didn’t Know You Needed (Until Now)

Hey wander babes!

Okay, okay—I know some of you are bundled up in fuzzy socks and hoodies, sipping hot chocolate somewhere in Southern Africa thinking, “Summer? Girl, it’s 9°C.” But hear me out! Whether you're in sunny Japan like me, or prepping for warmer days ahead in Zimbabwe or South Africa, this blog post is here to give you a little head start. You know what they say—a stylish girl is always three seasons ahead (don’t quote me though 😅).

Now let me be clear: I’m not out here claiming to be some Vogue-certified fashion guru. But if there's one thing I know how to do? Put together a good outfit that makes you look like you’ve got your life together—even when you’re just on your way to buy eggs. Because listen, in this economy? We refuse to look like our problems.

Also, real talk. I know the girlies are trying to be more sustainable and move away from fast fashion—and I salute that. But I also know that designer price tags can knock the wind out of your savings. So until we can all walk into Gucci like it’s Mr Price, let’s work with what we’ve got. And what we’ve got? Options, honey.

Let’s get into some of my favourite summer wardrobe staples that’ll keep you cool, comfy, and giving main character energy all season long.

So first up: mesh flats. Some of you call them ballerina shoes. These babies are elegant meets effortless. They’re breathable (hello, summer heat!), light on the feet, and shockingly versatile. You can rock them with wide-leg trousers and a crisp shirt for work, or pair them with a linen mini dress for that soft girl afternoon stroll. Add a tote bag and some sunnies, and you're ready for that “just bumped into an ex, and I’m thriving” moment.

Now, let’s talk white and black skirts. I’m talking about those long, flowy ones that scream, “I’m delicate but I will block you with peace.” These skirts are the backbone of a capsule wardrobe. White skirts give off angelic, Pinterest-girl vibes—pair them with a cropped pastel blouse, or tuck in a graphic tee and some sneakers for street flair. The black one? Oh, she’s your mysterious bestie. Dress her up with a silky top and kitten heels for date night, or wear her with a tank and chunky slides for that “I didn’t try but still ate” look.

Speaking of chunky sandals—please. If you haven’t gotten a pair yet, this is your sign. Not only are they comfy enough to survive a full day of errands, but they also add drama to your outfit. Like, “Yes, I read feminist literature and I’m on my way to a rooftop party.” Pair them with a ribbed midi dress, some oversized sunnies, and boom—you’re the moment.

Let me whisper to you about a summer cheat code: short-sleeved bodysuits. These little miracles do everything. They hold you in, smooth you out, and work with literally anything. Denim shorts? Check. Palazzo pants? Check. That random thrifted skirt? Yep. Just get yourself a few in basic colours like black, white, and brown. These are the Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Tems of your wardrobe—iconic and versatile.

Okay, now Bermuda shorts—you either love them or you're about to. I personally think they’re criminally underrated. Whether it’s denim or tailored fabric, they scream clean girl aesthetic but make it spicy. Rock them with a bodysuit, a blazer, and mules for brunch, or throw on a tank top and sandals for that beach-to-lunch transition. Add gold hoops and suddenly you’re her.

Now let’s bring in the statement jewellery. Personally? Gold in summer just hits. It complements melanin, it sparkles in the sun, and it pulls every outfit together like magic. You don’t need a vault, sis. Just a few bold pieces—a chunky chain, some layered necklaces, oversized hoops, or stacked rings. Your outfit could be giving “just rolled out of bed” and gold accessories will say, “yes, but make it editorial.”

And of course, you know I couldn’t leave out the bags. Sis, you need a statement tote—I’m talking woven, canvas, artsy, even a cheeky quote printed across it. These are for your work days, market days, beach days, and “I’m running away to write poetry in a park” days. Then there’s the cute lil shoulder bag. That one? She’s for the nights out, the dinner dates, the “I might take selfies tonight” moments. Basically, one carries your planner, and one carries your secrets.

Let’s circle back to the queen of all fabrics—denim. Whether it’s a long denim skirt or your go-to mom jeans, never underestimate the power of blue. The long skirt? Serve it with a tank top, belt it up, and throw on a printed scarf. The mom jeans? Bodysuit. Blazer. Slides. Add lipstick and strut. These are pieces that never let you down.

And lastly—dungarees. My forever favourite. Baggy, slouchy, artsy-chic. They can be denim or cotton, patchwork or plain. Style them with a bandeau, a cropped tee, or even a bikini top if you’re feeling brave. Put your hair in a messy bun, grab your tote, and go pretend you're in a French indie film.

You see, fashion doesn’t have to be complicated. Just a few timeless staples, some layering magic, and boom—you’ve got yourself a wardrobe that works with you, not against you.

And the best part? Everything I’ve mentioned is super accessible. From Shein to Amazon, Cotton On to Mr Price, Zara to Uniqlo—there’s a piece for every budget.

So whether you're sweating in Tokyo or shivering in Joburg, just remember: summer always comes back. And when it does? You’ll be ready to slay, sip, and serve.

Until next time—stay glowing, stay graceful, and as always, don’t look like your problems 😘

Love,

Jez | Wander and Weave