Practical Summer Clothes and Accessories That Just Make Sense

If New Balance makes you think of dad shoes, then consider this version their cool first-born daughter. The chunky rubber outsoles make them great walking shoes (practical), while 18 different color combinations and suede material make them chic enough for dinner out (cute). PS: Zappos has a wide-range of sneakers, sandals, and more that are perfect for summer and beyond. ($67.55+, Zappos)

One editor (hi) still swears by this racerback bra top after trying it last year. Not only because it’s wire-free, sweat-wicking, and comes in a bunch of colors, but because it actually works as both a bra and top when paired with high-waisted bottoms. It’s insanely supportive and provides great coverage. ($56, Girlfriend Collective)    

Behold: the yoga pants of tennis skirts. This skirt is designed to move with you but won’t give you an unwanted Marilyn moment thanks to the biker shorts underneath. They also have a sewn-in pocket for your phone, keys, or cards. The wide waistband helps keep the skirt from slipping down and makes it comfortable for all-day wear. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon) 

Every part of this dress is *chef’s kiss*, from the wide straps to the chic square neckline. The smocked back and visible front seams give it a flattering A-line shape. The material and shorter length will keep you cool in the warm weather. It doesn’t hurt that it’s almost always on sale. ($16+, Old Navy)   

We’ll take your classic white sneaks and raise you a pair of these equally versatile two-tone shoes. They’re casual but easy to dress up (especially the snakeskin print). They’re also wildly comfortable, and honestly, who can beat that price? ($22.98, Walmart)

This is your sign to replace your tried-and-true everyday tee with this chic, cropped version from Buck Mason. It’s made with a heavyweight cotton that’s still breathable, but won’t be see-through. We love the effortless (and breezy) boxy shape. It hits at your natural waist, which makes it a great top to pair with low- or high-waisted bottoms. ($55, Buck Mason)

There’s nothing quite like a great-fitting pair of jeans. This relaxed-fit pair from Abercrombie & Fitch is ideal for summer, but you’ll wear them all year long. They come in 26 washes, and lengths ranging from extra short to extra long. They stretch out over some time, but if they ever become too loose, we recommend tossing them in the dryer. ($90, Abercrombie & Fitch) 

Hot weather means feet sweat, and feet sweat means blisters — unless you have the right pair of socks. This no-show pair from Bombas are made of the softest Supima cotton, and they remain completely concealed with low-cut sneakers. Plus, for every pair you purchase, they’ll donate a pair to someone in need. ($14, Bombas)  

We’ve been living in this dress all summer, and we’ll continue to wear it well into September. Its organic cotton gauze material is lightweight but gives the dress just enough texture to jazz it up. The high neckline gives it an elegant vibe. It pairs well with statement earrings and your favorite strappy sandals for dinner, or simple flip-flops for errands. ($49.90, Quince)

Our secret to an effortlessly cool outfit has always been this Outerknown jumpsuit. While it looks structured, it’s actually flexible and roomy, so you won’t feel trapped inside. No need to wear a purse either, since it's littered with large, deep pockets. You won’t overheat in the cotton-and-linen material, but we do reserve this for chillier summer days or nights. ($178, Outerknown) 

These grab-and-go shorts from FP Movement can be worn for errand-running, regular running, or running (late) to lunch with friends. They’re as cute as they are versatile, with an ultra-wide elastic waistband that covers your bellybutton but won’t pinch or prod you. They also have built-in briefs to help you feel more secure, since the water-resistant material is light and loose. ($40, FP Movement) 

If you’ve got a few more weddings or showers on your calendar this year, these block heels are total life-savers. They come in a ton of fun colors, finishes, and prints, and are designed to be worn all day or all night. They’re tall enough to give you a few inches, but short enough that your knees and ankles won’t be screaming by the end of the night. These are the Goldilocks of formal footwear. ($69.99, DSW) 

We may have rebranded the fanny pack as a “crossbody belt bag,” but there’s a reason this style is sticking around: it just makes sense. This one from Dagne Dover is an editor favorite. It’s on the minimalist side, so it won’t distract from your outfit. It has two loops on the inside to hold your lip balm or your keys, plus a card pocket and zippered external pocket for easy access. It’s light as air but will still hold all your essentials. ($95, Dagne Dover) 

This dress is the definition of “throw on and go” thanks to its roomy fit and lack of buttons, zippers, or clasps. With its  higher neckline, you can throw it on over a sports bra or bathing suit top and keep them concealed. Forgot to shave your underarms? Short sleeves have you covered. And the stretchy Supima cotton is so soft, you could sleep in it. Nothing not to love here. ($39.50+, Athleta) 

We’re not sure what makes this outer layer more interesting — the fact that you can fold it up into its own wallet-sized back pocket, or that it’s designed with a special UPF50+ UV-protection technology. Either way, we’re taking this hoodie with us everywhere we go, from now until November. ($39.90, Uniqlo)

We use these bike shorts under flowy skirts or dresses to prevent thigh chafing, since the now-famous Align material is meant to feel like a second skin. But they’re still opaque enough to wear on their own. Add an oversized tee and sneakers for a Princess Diana vibe, or snag a matching top for your next workout session. ($64, Lululemon)