most wanted is a weekly series in which an editor, staffer, or influencer shares their top 30 must-have or current wish-list items.
Summer dressing always feels like a reset, with lighter layers, easier silhouettes, and pieces like this that make wearing clothes feel effortless again. Right now, my shopping is in full warm-weather mode: breathable dresses, elevated basics, statement accessories, and vacation-ready items that work just as well for city days as they do for weekends away. This is a running list of the 46 best summer items I’m keeping an eye on right now, pieces that feel current, effortless, and instantly make any outfit feel more thoughtful.
They make even the simplest outfit feel a little more sophisticated.
Another great closet staple.
express
Airy Soft V-Neck Dolman Sleeve Sweater
An oversized lightweight sweater that I’ll keep on hand for chilly restaurants and breezy beach nights.
free people
Cherry Scallop Top
Wearing repetitive types of shirts.
banana Republic
Linen Scoop-Neck Maxi Dress
The kind of elevated staple that instantly makes your outfit look more purposeful without taking too much effort.
cozy earth
Luxe Bath Robe (was $148)
The outfit I stay in on slow mornings at home.
Michael Kors
Easy Small Crocheted Barrel Pocket
This feels like vacation dressing in the form of a crocheted pouchet bag. Its structure itself makes it different.
fossil
Raquel Mini Three-Hand Gold-Tone Stainless Steel Watch
A small gold watch that adds just enough polish to a stack of bracelets or a simple tank-and-jeans look.
banana Republic
suede blazer
Lightweight outerwear that effortlessly “energizes” every look.
tibbi
Poplin Strappy Open Back Top
I immediately added it to my cart.
helmut lang
scarf drape silk top
kurt geiger
crystal strap flat mule
An easy summer night shoe.
Sleek black flats with a comfortable everyday feel.
express
Halter Cowl Neck Open Back Tank
A slinky halter top that seems made for rooftop drinks and warm summer nights.
banana Republic
Minimalist Cotton Halter Tank
Halter tanks are a summer necessity.
eggolde
yellow lariat pierced jeans
Sleek, elevated and great with denim.
Heels that do all the work for your outfit.
acne studio
Off-White Logo Jersey T-Shirt
An easy logo tee that goes with virtually everything.
bare shoes
Chauna Leather Loafers
Loafers that make a simple outfit instantly dressier.
Vitamin A
tulum bucket hat
A raffia bucket hat that’s reminiscent of summer vacations.
Adidas
Firebird Loose Track Pant
An easy summer pant that you can even wear with a simple tank or a cute little bikini.
Michael Kors
Mayes knitted sandals
Minimal strappy sandals that work for beach dinners, city walks, and everything in between.
vuori
Villa Everyday Wideleg
These seem to be a perfect choice for cold nights.
Sasha Therese
raven top natural
Comfortable construction meets elevated silhouette.
Hunja ji
blue mia beaded swimsuit
A dazzling pearl swimsuit made for holiday photos.
express
Lightly Textured Ribbed V-Neck Sweater Tank
A basic white tank is a summer essential.
uvila warrior
Silk Charmeuse Camisole
A silk camisole that makes any outfit feel fun and flirty.
Aviator Nation
New York Yankees 2026 Relaxed Pullover Hoodie
A perfectly oversized hoodie with a worn-in feel.
vuori
Restore Oversized Hoodie
Every wardrobe needs an oversized hoodie.
comfortable land
Suji Pajama Set in Sage/Air
kurt geiger
Oxford Fringe Ditch Shoulder Bag
Fringe details always make a bag more fun, and it adds just the right amount of movement.
The perfect white tee really does exist.
Retro sneakers that look especially good with baggy denim.
roller rabbit
Florence Lace Pippa Dress
Romantic lace detail without feeling overly sweet.
karen milan
Cotton Linen 3D Floral Bubble Hem Midi Dress
A must have summer wedding guest.
helsa
slinky off the shoulder jersey
The advanced basic work was very, very well done.
patagen
Self-Tanning Face and Body Mist
What’s summer without a tan?
Oversized frames that instantly pull off a look.
Jouer Cosmetics
Precision Brightening Set
A brightening set for mornings when you need extra help.
I keep seeing them everywhere. I need them.
beyond yoga
SpaceDie Square Halter Tank
A workout tank that’s cute enough to wear outside the gym.
vuori
Villa Shoreline Halter Top
The easiest throw on and halter style is perfect for summer.
fossil
Jolie Leather Crossbody Bag
This crossbody is one of those forever bags that works with every outfit in your wardrobe.
Soludos
marseille wedge espadrille
A wedge espadrille that feels equally ready for the coastal and the city.