Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's.
1. A stunning cover-up set that'll make you feel like you're walking down a runway, when IRL, you're just lounging by a pool or sandy beach. Its matching crop top and flowy maxi skirt with built-in bottoms will elevate any swim look.
Promising review: "This was perfect for the beach! So stunning and turned plenty of heads. Buying this in every color now! LOL, don't think about it — just buy it!" —Katrina P.
Get it from Amazon for $25.99+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and 25 colors).
2. A tie-front T-shirt dress so you can comfortably walk around and look cute on a warm day. The material is buttery soft and lightweight, so it won't cling to your body, plus it has an adjustable tie waist. You'll have a stylish basic outfit to swap with your go-to tee and jean shorts.
Promising review: "I ordered this on a bit of a whim after it popped up as a suggested item for me. I wore it for the first time today when I joined some friends for lunch. This dress is so comfortable and fun it made me glad to get dressed up a bit and get out and about. Something I haven’t done much of in the past two years due to COVID-19. Good quality for a very reasonable price. I can see this becoming a summer staple for me." —RTG
Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and in 24 colors).
3. Sorel strappy sandals made for running errands, farmers market trips, and spending time outside. With an elevated footbed, a cushy design, and a strap that you can seamlessly take on and off, you'll be good to go if you're walking a lot.
Promising review: "Love my new sandals! Great cushioning and arch support, sporty look, and the adjustable strap is great for the Florida humidity that makes your feet swell when you walk a bit. I found them true to size. I'm usually between an 8 and 8.5 (usually the larger size in athletic shoes) and found the 8 in these to fit well. Got lots of compliments on them my first day wearing them! So comfy!" —Maggie
Get them from Amazon for $99.56+ (available in sizes 5–12 and in 12 colors).
4. A tie-front romper you'll want to slip into before walking to the boardwalk, going for a bike ride, or having a picnic in the park. This one-piece beauty is an easy outfit that'll feel very breezy to wear on hotter days.
Some reviewers recommend sizing up if you prefer a looser fit!
Promising review: "The fit of this romper was perfect. The material was super nice and flowy, great for summer time! The only thing I didn’t like was that the romper has no pockets. Pockets make the whole outfit in my opinion. I plan on wearing this for my boyfriend’s graduation party." —Alana Flores
Get it from Amazon for $22.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and in 23 colors).
5. Wide-leg palazzo pants so comfy and airy, you'll probably forget about the summery dresses you wear all the time. A wide-leg design, front pleats, and numerous color/pattern options will help you create a chic ensemble with minimal effort.
Promising review: "These pants as so comfortable and flowy! I stepped outside of my usual skinny-jean outfit to try this style — and I never want to take them off! They are great casual pants for work, and can be dressed up for the evening with a fancy shirt and heels. They are as comfortable as pajamas without looking like it :)." —gretchen nash
Get them from Amazon for $39.99 (available in sizes XS–2X, two lengths, and in 30 colors and patterns).
6. Or patterned wide-leg pants for the plethora of tank tops you already have that need bottoms to match. They're stretchy, have pockets, and look great with slides or sandals.
Promising review: "It’s sometimes very hard to buy clothes online. I’ve been striking out a lot lately...until I received THESE today! SO super cute and light and airy (but not see through), just a great pair of pants! If you’re on the fence, go for it and just buy them! Fits as expected! You’ll love them! I know I do! Can’t wait to wear them...now I just need somewhere to go! Lol." —N.M.P118
Get them from Amazon for $33.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 24 colors).
7. A mini bodycon dress just begging to be part of your summer wardrobe: It has a fun butterfly print, stretchy mesh material that'll feel like a gentle hug, and a comfy liner that'll prevent seamless underwear from peeking through.
8. A cropped tank you'll probably wear again and again during the summer. This sleeveless top will go with so many shorts, pants, and skirts. Plus, it comes in so many color options for dressing in the heat!
This top is also double-lined, so you can wear it with or without a bra!
Promising review: "I cannot begin to describe how much I love these tops! I first got one in black and loved the way it fit and how comfortable it was. I went back and got the gray (which is really more of an olive color but I love it!). I’m about a 32B and I don’t need to wear a bra with these shirts which makes them perfect for either being comfortable at home or dressing up to go out. A third shirt may be coming my way in the near future these are my summer staples!" —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $23.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and in 16 colors).
9. A two-piece midi dress set so you don't have to waste time putting together an outfit when it's sunny and hot outside. Instead of trying to match tops and bottoms for hours, you can slip into this gorgeous, breathable duo and head out the door.
Promising review: "I got so many compliments on this outfit. I loved it so much, I bought two more in different colors! The material is breathable and comfortable. The style can be fun or classy and the package came quick! It's not too tight and not too loose. Highly recommend." —Robin Ramirez
Get it from Amazon for $34.99 (available in sizes XL–5X and in 36 colors and patterns).
10. A floral-print wrap dress because it's finally that time of year when you can wear something cute besides sweaters and pants. An adjustable wrap waist, breezy butterfly sleeves, and a beautiful print will give your summer OOTD a major upgrade.
Promising review: "The material is light and comfortable which makes this dress perfect for spring and summer. I love how it flows when I walk and it compliments my shape." —Stephanie LeVert
Get it from Amazon for $40.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and in 27 colors).
11. A tie-back monokini that'll be the ~purrfect~ piece of swimwear for your next pool party or beach outing. Instead of wearing a boring one-piece, you can show up in this number with a fun print and an open back design. Plus, you can adjust the straps for a personalized fit!
Promising review: "This suit is a stunner! If you’re looking for a cheeky one piece suit for summer or your next beach vacay, this deep V-beauty doesn’t disappoint. The straps are long and great for customizing the style of the top. So many prints to choose from — do yourself a favor and get a few! Such a great swim option and looks cute paired with high waist shorts and beach pants." —Sara
Get it from Amazon for $36.99 (available in sizes S–XL and in 33 colors).
12. A JW Pei vegan leather purse because you adore the '90s and need a chic summer accessory that'll hold all the essentials — aka a cellphone, keys, wallet, and some lip balm.
Promising review: "Very good quality, nice yellow color, perfect for summer, goes with everything (much more than I expected), fits not much but enough for the essentials, has a card pocket inside. So happy with this purchase, want it in every color!" —Viktoriia
Get it from Amazon for $38.99 (available in 12 colors).
13. High-rise shorts with an adorable bow waist and roomy pockets. Reviewers swear by these for lots of summer outings, because they're very comfortable and you can easily tuck in tank tops or tees.
Promising review: "The best shorts ever!!! I went on a girls' boating wine tour in these and I got all the compliments and asking where I got them. They are SO COMFORTABLE, they have a little stretch to them. Will be buying more colors!!" —Britanie
Get them from Amazon for $24.64 (available in sizes S–XXL and in 41 colors).
14. A cutout maxi dress for your next weekend getaway or summer vacation. It's made with a breezy material (goodbye, sweating), has a comfy elastic waist, and a cool pattern that'll work with so many heels and sandals!
Kin By Kristine is a Black woman-owned business based in Los Angeles. They design gorgeous pieces, including maxi dresses, dusters, and crop tops for plus-size women.
Get it from Kin By Kristine for $49.95 (available in sizes 14–26).
15. Platform sandals, so you can take your summer ensemble to ~new heights~ without compromising comfort. Reviewers rave about the comfort of the platform bed and love wearing them when the weather warms up. Plus, you'll get to dress up rompers and shorts with something new.
Promising review: "These shoes are absolutely amazing! They're perfect for spring and summer weather. So unbelievably comfortable, you'll never want to take them off. Seriously, I'm about to buy all of the colors so I can just wear these shoes!" —Morgan
Get them from Amazon for $26.41+ (available in sizes 5.5–11 and in 59 colors).
16. A strapless bustier for your next night out or brunch with friends. This beauty is easy to style and goes with SO MANY pants. If you're still set on wearing faux leggings or high-rise denim during the summer, this top will help you out.
Promising review: "I purchased this outfit for a night out. I must say I love this top because you can dress it up or dress it down. It is not see-through at all. A nice corset-like top! Not made of cheap material at all." —Danielle DeNora
Get it from Amazon for $34.99 (available sizes 00–14 and in 17 colors).
17. An Outdoor Voices exercise dress that'll be there when you want to go hiking and go out for food and drinks. It has built-in shorts for windy weather, straps you can adjust, and a versatile design that's fashionable and functional.
BuzzFeeder Rachel Dunkel owns this dress and said: "I wore the exercise dress on a camping trip and absolutely loved it. It's tight enough that you feel agile but not SO tight that it's restricting. It was great for hiking, too! I even scaled some big ole' rocks and exposed mountain faces, and it fared really well. Despite me literally sliding down a giant rock on my butt, the dress never got caught, ripped, or showed wear. It's a trouper."
Get it from Outdoor Voices for $100 (available in sizes XXS–XXXL and in 15 colors and patterns).
18. A one-piece bathing suit so great for swimming at the beach *or* relaxing poolside. A tie-front top section offers great chest support and it comes with built-in bikini bottoms that'll stay in place, even if you're splashing in the water. The best part? It can definitely pass as a chic mini dress too.
Promising review: "These swim dresses are awesome!! The pattern is exactly how is looks in the picture and the skirt lands right above the knee. Super comfy. It fits larger than expected — so you may wanna size down. Excited to wear these this summer.🤩" —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $31.99 (available in sizes XL–5XL and in 20 patterns).
19. A pleated tennis skirt because you can hit the tennis court or go on a relaxing bike ride and let your legs BREATHE. An elastic high waist won't restrict your movement, an inner pair of shorts prevents your underwear from showing, and an adorable pleated design will complete whatever cute top you have on.
It also has pockets that'll hold your keys, wallet, and cell phone!
Promising review: "I love these skorts! I have one in another color and they are my go-to when I don't feel like wearing shorts in the summer. I was so excited to see it in my favorite color, orange, as it can be hard to find. They are cute, breathable and very comfortable. I wash on delicate and tumble dry low with no issues. They are perfect for when I'm working out or just as daily wear. " —Charlee
Get it from Amazon for $20.99+ (available in sizes XXS–XXL and in 27 colors and patterns).
20. A button-down dress so you don't have to dig through your closet to find something lightweight and chic to dress in when it's warm out. It has buttons down the front, a sleeveless design, AND pockets for your essentials. Add in some cute heels or sandals to complete the look.
Promising review: "I love this dress. I got the white one with the sunflowers on it. It's perfect. The pockets are awesome, and the buttons are flattering. I'm 5'2 and the dress falls a little below the knee for me. It's also super silky smooth, which I wasn't expecting. It's good material for hot weather." —LD
Get it from Amazon for $26.99 (available in sizes S–3X and in 18 colors).
21. A chic bodysuit that'll take you straight to summer, thanks to a sleeveless shape, a tie-collar neck, and a beautiful yellow shade perfect for a pair of wide leg jeans or a flowy maxi skirt.
Selva Negra is a Latina-owned business based in Los Angeles. They're known for their sustainable practices, including compostable packaging, and gorgeous products that span everything from face masks to jumpsuits.
Get it from Selva Negra for $120 (available in sizes XS–4XL).
22. A pair of tie-dye Crocs for days you want to let your feet *breathe*: Ventilation ports help minimize sweat, a cushy footbed ensures that your heels and toes stay comfy, and a swirly design will add a pop of color to any loungewear look.
Want to personalize your Crocs? You can add these fun charms to each pair!
Promising review: "These crocs are so comfortable. My back doesn't hurt as much when I wear these. Of course it's spacious as Crocs should be, but your feet doesn't move around when walking! Great product and it's a fun spring color!" —SG
Get them from Amazon for $42.29+ (available in sizes 4–17 and in 23 colors).
23. A pleated skirt that you'll probably want to wear to at least one special occasion. A garden ceremony and reception? Check. An informal gathering with friends and fam? Check. Style it with your favorite T-shirt or sleeveless blouse and you'll have an instant outfit.
Promising review: "Bought this a while ago but never had good pictures in it (edit note: see picture on the right)! It's such a comfortable skirt and is perfect for the summer or spring. I really want to get another color to wear in the winter and fall! I would definitely need to wear tights for warmth, but it's just so pretty!" —Theresa Vogel
Get it from Amazon for $34.99 (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 50 colors and lengths).
24. Printed bike shorts so comfy and stylish for hiking, running, and walking. They come in fun patterns (like the leopard-print one below) and have moisture-wicking fabric that'll help you stay dry on spring outdoor adventures.
Promising review: "This product is perfect for all outdoor activities! I recently got into bike shorts because I was tired of my thighs chafing when I run, hike, and bike. These shorts are shorter than other bike shorts, but long enough to prevent chafing. The patterns are perfect and vibrant and the cloth is so soft. They are incredibly breathable and comfortable for lounging in, or taking on a long run or bike ride." —Amazon Customer
Get them from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL, in sets of two, and in 15 colors and patterns).
25. A cutout dress that won't stay in your closet for long. A comfy, not see-through material gently hugs your body and a chic cutout design makes this piece versatile enough to wear to your next pool party and outdoor dinner afterwards.
Promising review: "I give 10 stars. Absolute best dress I’ve purchased on Amazon! Amazing fit. Beautiful, perfect neutral. Hugs all my curves, not see through, and super comfortable. Makes me feel like a goddess. I’m in love." —T.C.
Get it from Amazon for $22.99 (available in sizes S–XL and in 14 colors).
26. A sweater knit skirt because you can't go wrong with some florals and a bodycon shape. If you have a summer event to attend, you can just wear it with the matching cropped cardigan, some platform sandals, and call it a day.
Get it from Forever 21 for $24.99 (available in sizes 0X–4X).
27. A ruffly tie-back one-piece ~suited~ for the beach and beyond: Ruffled straps let it double up as a cool top, while an adjustable tie-back and padded cups help keep your chest comfy for hours. It's also available in prints or solid colors!
Promising review: "OMG!! I never buy clothes from Amazon, but my friend bought this suit and couldn't stop raving about it, so I figured for the price I'd try it....This suit is AMAZING!!! The fit is great, I have a little bit of a longer torso and no issues with the size. The quality is so good!" —Becca
Get it from Amazon for $32.99 (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 20 colors).
28. A pair of huarache sandals perfect for those in between summer days when it's a little chilly, but still warm out: they're made with a comfy leather material and go with so many wardrobe items (denim, dresses, skirts, and more).
Macarena Collection is a California-based Etsy shop that sells embroidered apparel and handmade Mexican shoes.
Promising review: "I'm so thrilled with my purchase! My huaraches arrived quickly and are super cute and comfy! I was surprised with how comfortable they are, I didn't have to break them in at all. Great craftsmanship. Overall, beautiful sandals at a great price!" —Etsy Customer
Get them from Macarena Collection on Etsy for $39.99 (available in sizes 5–10 and in four colors).
29. A strapless stretchy-top dress that'll get you excited for summer. Just picture yourself walking along the beach or through a garden wearing this gem with an open-back (!!!) and flowy shape that'll work with sandals or wedges.
Promising review: "I CANNOT WAIT to wear this dress this summer. It's so breezy and light, and the backless part will feel so nice and cool on those sticky 90+ degree days we're known for here along the mid-Atlantic coast. I have D cups, and I feel the stretchy ruching on the front is supportive enough to keep my girls in place. (Won't be doing any jumping jacks, but "wardrobe malfunctions" will neither be an issue nor a worry!)" —Suz
Get it from Amazon for $34.99 (available in sizes S–XL and in 28 colors).
30. A ruched crop top you'll probably wear on repeat through summer and beyond. Whether you're a fan of skirts, shorts, or jeans, this basic piece of clothing will complement them all, plus you can adjust the length!
You may want to stock up on a few color options too, because they'll make getting dressed in the morning easy. All you need are some bottoms to put an outfit together!
Promising review: I love this shirt. You can wear it at several different lengths. It is a soft stretchy material. Not see through at all. Very comfortable for wearing all day and night. Pair this with a skirt or cute pair of jeans!" —Katrina
Get it from Amazon for $16.99 (available in sizes XS–3X and in 33 colors).
31. A platform sandal so you can recreate a cool '90s or Y2K look without a lot of effort. Whether you have a midi dress or cargo pants, these slides will look so good with your summer wardrobe. They're also available in black, blue, green, and orange for outfit versatility.
Promising review: "Could not be happier with these shoes. Wanted them in 2021 but they were sold out. So happy they were restocked. True to size. Perfect '90s vibe." —Urban Outfitters Customer
Get them from Urban Outfitters for $75 (available in sizes 6–10 and in four colors).
32. Levi's Ribcage Straight Jeans because you need denim that'll work for the summer season. A high-rise fit hits your waist at the right spot (so perf for a blouse or cropped tee!) and an ankle length makes it easy to wear with sandals or sneakers.
Promising review: "They're better than mom jeans in the sense that you're not being squished like skinny jeans but not too loose either. They're so cute with cropped tops for summer and bodysuits. SO comfy as well." —Sarah Carmona
Maitland Quitmeyer, and editor here at BuzzFeed, is also a fan of these! She said: "I am an exclusively high-waisted bottoms person. No ifs, ands, or but(t)s about it, I refuse to wear anything else. I have some high-waisted jeans I love, but both pairs really just come up to my belly button, and it'll sometimes pop on out if I'm wearing a crop top. No biggie, but I was looking for a pair that came up FURTHER. So I went into Levi's last year and tried on just about every "high rise" pair in the store. Seriously. And these straight Ribcage jeans were just the ticket. Stiff enough to look like jeans instead of jeggings, a slight crop and straight hem at the bottom to differentiate from my skinny jeans, and a SUPER HIGH rise." Read more deets in her full Levi's Ribcage Straight Jeans review (it's #11).
Get them from Amazon for $79.50 (available in sizes 24–44 and in nine colors).
33. A handwoven circle bag so you can have a chic carrier for small things and not have to bring a large bag with you. You can take this lightweight accessory to the beach, brunch, and everything in between.
Promising review: "Bought this as a gift for my sister for our planned vacation to Mexico and it was perfect! The bag is exactly as pictured with really pretty fabric lining in the inside and came in a little tote that she even used to cart sunscreen and a book to the beach on her trip. So cute that I almost didn't want to gift it, and definitely borrowed it on the trip. I'm sure it will only be a matter of time until I buy myself one too!" —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $31.99 (also available in white).
34. A button-down blouse because you need a classic piece that'll pair perfectly with everything in your summer wardrobe. The beauty of this essential is that you can tuck it into shorts *or* wear it over a sleeveless dress.
35. A pair of retro-inspired sunglasses so you can accessorize like your favorite fashion model and protect your eyes from the sun. Reviewers adore 'em because they're a chic dupe for similar high-end frames.
Check them out on TikTok here.
Promising review: "I had originally seen these pair of glasses on TikTok and was very eager in buying them and let me tell you they did NOT disappoint. They are very sturdy, fashionable, and look like a high-end pair of glasses." —Alejandra Larios
Get a 2-pack from Amazon for $14.95 (available in 33 color combinations).
36. And a ruffle sleeve jumpsuit that'll help you get dressed for your next special occasion. It's a great outfit option if you're not sure what the weather is going to be like for formal events. You'll be glad you didn't wear a breezy short dress if it's rainy and windy outside.
Promising review: "I have to admit that I had low expectations for this jumpsuit as a 5’2 person, but WOW! The length is just right! It has some stretch too, so it’s very comfortable. I bought it to wear to an outdoor winter wedding in Texas, but I could easily wear this to a work event or on a date. I’m wearing with heels, but I think I could wear it with flats if I wanted. I’m very impressed with this Amazon find!" —Casey Bice
Get it from Amazon for $51.99 (available in sizes S–XL and in seven colors).
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.