Susie Wright knows how to make cute outfits. After all, she worked as a Nordstrom buyer for decades (basically her job was to tell people what to buy) and posted cute looks on her social channels (ahem, More than 700k followers on Instagram) and its hugely popular site, so susie. For summer 2026, Wright is working on nine signature items to create her eye-catching wardrobe.
Below is Wright’s list of summer 2026 essentials. You’ll find everything from her all-season sandals to adorable tops that look perfect with shorts and skirts. There are other advanced basics also included in the mix. Keep scrolling for visual styling inspiration from Wright, as well as more.
9 summer staples, according to a former Nordstrom shopper
Drawstring Pants
on the right: : aritzia pants
“The drawstring pant is that summer piece you’ll wear again and again. Effortlessly comfortable, easy to wear and so stylish – it’s become one of my favorite warm weather essentials.”
flip flop
On the right: Madewell skirt; Agolde Tank; Christopher Esber Flip-Flops
“There’s something about a simple flip-flop that feels so perfect this summer. Whether you go for a jelly style or a classic Havaianas, it’s an effortlessly cool finishing touch to any outfit.”
polo tops
On the right: frame top and jeans
“The polo top is having a major moment—and it’s easy to see why. After the looks on the runway Chanel and Celine, it’s officially a summer wardrobe staple — wear it with jeans, a skirt, anything. So simple and so charming.”
Light-wash, loose denim
On the right: ASTR The Label Jacket and Mother Jeans
“Light wash baggy jeans are my favorite right now—and they feel perfect for summer.”
come happiness
On the right: anthropological attire; J.Crew clutch; gianvito rossi sandals
“Fringe and tassel details are everywhere right now, and I’m obsessed with it. From bags to long necklaces and dresses, there’s so much beautiful detail. This Anthropologie tassel dress is already on my packing list for my European trip next month.”
bright blue
On the right: simkhai dress
“If you want to say something this summer, bright, bold color is the answer. There’s something about bright blue that feels so new and fresh right now.”
midi skirt
On the right: Vince cardigan and skirt
“I can’t think of a more quintessential summer outfit than a midi skirt. The outfit possibilities are truly endless – a simple tank and flat sandals, or something a little more dressed up for evening. It’s the perfect summer outfit.”
knitted goods
On the right: Madewell Tote and Dress
“Woven bags and sandals are my favorite way to add texture to a summer outfit. So versatile, so stylish — and they make everything look a little more pulled together.”
embroidery/eyelets
On the right: Anthropologie Skirt
“This beautiful detail is showing up everywhere right now — from skirts to tops to denim — and I love every version of it. Delicate, pretty, and perfect for summer.”
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