Popsugar Fashion Summer Fashion Fashion Editor Picks For Summer 2023 34 Summer Must Haves Our Editors Can't Live Without 13 July 2023 by Sarah Wasilak Image Source: Darrel Hunter As POPSUGAR editors, we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. If you buy a product we have recommended, we may receive affiliate commission, which in turn supports our work. Summer is a time to capitalize on all the latest celebrity style trends that appeal to you — from the visible bra to the naked dress — but it's also a feel-good period, when expressing yourself is key. This season, we're doing exactly that by shopping for pieces that make a statement in an impactful way, whether it's just by fitting into the quiet luxury category or due to a vibrant print or cutout (see: the Matte Collection Heros monokini and Farm Rio one-shoulder dress in the gallery ahead). We've polled POPSUGAR's editors and contributors to find out which must haves they're either eyeing or have already purchased — and the list simply will not disappoint. While I'm focussed on gathering wardrobe essentials for my upcoming trip to Croatia, such as everyday jewellery, on-the-go, hands-free bags, and breezy, romantic dresses to keep on repeat, Senior Content Director of Fashion Jessica Andrews is honing in on embellished shoes for summer weddings and the perfect crochet skirt set. Meanwhile, Breaking News Editor Yerin Kim is balancing florals with structured staples; Assistant Commerce Editor Kyley Warren is buying versatile, tailored slacks she found on TikTok; Contributor Naomi Parris has avant-garde designs on her mind, from Loewe's inflated sunglasses to Hanifa's shapely mules; and Special Projects Director Lena Felton is surprising herself with an affinity for the colour pink by way of the perfect flouncy minidress. As you scroll, read exactly why we're excited about these summer must haves, and shop the looks that speak to you most. Related: 14 Denim Shorts That Every Fashion Girl Needs in Her Closet This Season Jessica Andrews, Senior Content Director of Fashion View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jessica C. Andrews (@dressupwithjess) "My summer style is all about vibrant, bold colour — I love the quiet luxury trend but it's simply not the look for me. I'm so enamoured with this season's bold colour trends, from yellow to purple. And though Barbiecore is at its peak right now, I'm not averse to the occasional dress or a few choice accessories in the pink hue. As for summer accessories, I'm all about investment bags from luxury brands, comfortable heels that I don't mind wearing for hours, and a fun pair of statement sunglasses." Barbiecore-Pink Dress Image Source: cleobella.com Cleobella Lalita Minidress ($238) Barbiecore is in full swing, and this minidress is one of my favourite summer finds in the colour. From the bubble hem to the dramatic shoulders, every detail feels ethereal and romantic. Even the cutouts get a touch of whimsy thanks to delicate bow detail. Plus, I love that this design is ethically handmade in India." — JA Cleobella Lalita Minidress $238 from cleobella.com Buy Now Crossbody Bag Image Source: coach.com Coach X Observed By Us Heart Crossbody ($350) "Coach is one of my favourite brands for investment bags and this darling collection — Coach x Observed By Us — is at the top of my shopping wishlist. It's a collab between Kristen Dunst and Los Angeles-based illustrator and designer Jessica Herschko, and the dreamy artwork makes each piece come alive. I want to wear the heart crossbody bag every day, but the full line includes shoes, jewellery, dresses, denim, and more." — JA Coach X Observed By Us Heart Crossbody $350 from coach.com Buy Now 2000s Sunglasses Image Source: sunglasshut.com Miu Miu Sunglasses ($530) "White sunglasses are a huge trend this summer, and I adore this pair from Miu Miu. The logo and the thick frames remind me of 2000s-style shades. This would work perfectly with an all-white look or a printed dress." — JA Miu Miu Sunglasses $530 from sunglasshut.com Buy Now Carry-On Suitcase Image Source: herschel.com Herschel Heritage Hardshell Large Carry On Luggage ($250) "As much as I love to travel, it's worth it to invest in a piece of good carry-on luggage. Constructed from 70% recycled polycarbonate, this style boasts a hard shell, TSA locks, serviceable wheels, and a flat laptop working space. What's more, this style is impact-resistant so it's durable enough for flights and road trips." — JA Herschel Heritage Hardshell Large Carry On Luggage $250 from herschel.com Buy Now Crochet Skirt Set Image Source: freepeople.com Saylor Elie Set ($275) "I love this breezy Free People crochet set and pack it on almost every holiday. The purple colour just pops against my complexion and the fringe detail is so playful and fun. Not only do I mix and match the set with abandon, I add on a pair of stiletto sandals for dinner or throw on flats for a day of sightseeing." — JA Saylor Elie Set $275 from freepeople.com Buy Now Embellished Pumps Image Source: kurtgeiger.us Kurt Geiger London Duke Shoes ($165) "For all the fancy summer weddings on my calendar, I love to slip on these stunning pumps from Kurt Geiger. The houndstooth fabric and mule silhouette feels timeless, and the jeweled strap adds plenty of sparkle and personality." — JA Kurt Geiger London Duke Shoes $165 from kurtgeiger.us Buy Now Sarah Wasilak, Senior Fashion Editor View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sarah Wasilak (@slwasz) "This summer, I'm attempting to achieve quiet luxury with a twist. Whether that means adding an unexpected pop of colour to a sophisticated set or rocking some quirky jewellery or flashy heels, I can never leave my outfit 100-percent refined. But at the same time, I love the look of logo-less fashion, and the fluidity of well-made co-ords. To move myself from a kitschy, Y2K aesthetic to one that's more streamlined, my trick is to add a pair of dark sunglasses and black minimalist heels when in doubt." Belted Dress Image Source: zimmermann.com Zimmermann Vacay Strapless Midi Dress ($1,150) "I'm not sure if you heard, but belting long maxi dresses is a style move that is most definitely summer 2023-approved. While the look hails from the early aughts, the modern aesthetic refreshes the quiet luxury trend, rather than a more relaxed, bohemian feel. I'm obsessed with this Zimmermann pairing, and I love a strapless tube silhouette, making this an easy sell." — SW Zimmermann Vacay Strapless Midi Dress $1,150 from zimmermann.com Buy Now Colorblock Sunglasses Image Source: warbyparker.com Warby Parker Melina Striped Sepia Sunglasses ($195) "Warby Parker's latest drop of colorblock shades put the brand's signature craftsmanship on full display. Available in sunglasses or prescription lenses, the frames are unique and inspired by travels to Italy. I love how this colorway in particular looks up against my blonde hair, which is super light right now for the summer." — SW Warby Parker Melina Striped Sepia Sunglasses $195 from warbyparker.com Buy Now Bright Summer Heels Image Source: flordemariacollection.com Flor De Maria Lauren Crystal Embellished Neon Stiletto Sandals ($425) "In the summer, I love to add a pop of colour to my otherwise neutral outfits — just for fun. This 4-inch stiletto is certainly eye-catching enough, and it's a handmade shoe, which makes the crystals strung across the straps feel delicate and special." — SW Flor De Maria Lauren Crystal Embellished Neon Stiletto Sandals $425 from flordemariacollection.com Buy Now Travel Fanny Pack Image Source: gladandyoungstudio.com Glad & Young Studio Big Sister Fanny Pack ($145) "I have a big summer trip to Croatia planned this August, and I've been on the hunt for an easy, hands-free bag that I can swing over my shoulder without worry as I explore. I especially love that the natural shade of this grain leather purse won't take away from my outfit. In fact, it'll go with anything and everything I'm planning on packing for the adventure." — SW Glad & Young Studio Big Sister Fanny Pack $145 from gladandyoungstudio.com Buy Now Cuff Bracelet Image Source: komusodesign.com Komusō Cuff Shift ($135) "While this cuff may look like a standard gold bracelet at first glance, it's more than meets the eye. Komusō is a brand that's launched wearable breathing tools to lower stress. And, as someone who suffers from severe anxiety, I am constantly searching for easy-to-access coping mechanisms. The cuff will pile on seamlessly with my other bracelets, although it looks sophisticated when worn alone, too. You can quickly detach the shift pendant from the structure and exhale into the bar to reset at a moment's notice. To me, it feels like a wearable security blanket." — SW Komusō Cuff Shift $135 from komusodesign.com Buy Now Printed One-Piece Swimsuit Image Source: oceanusthelabel.com Oceanus Marina Swimsuit ($374) "Oceanus is one of my favourite swim labels for retro pieces that pack a punch without any additional accessories, thanks to their statement-making finishes. This suit instantly conjures images of the 'Free Willy' movie poster — and that was one of my favourite films growing up. In the name of nostalgia (and loving anything beaded and Barbiecore-pink), this will be my no-brainer investment one-piece for the season." — SW Oceanus Marina Swimsuit $374 from oceanusthelabel.com Buy Now Letter Earrings Image Source: bysamiiryan.com Samii Ryan Letter S Studded Earrings ($28) "It's no surprise that quirky and creative brand Samii Ryan is selling a pair of 'S' earrings that just so happen to reflect my initial, but these are a must have for me for a couple more reasons. Firstly, I love gold jewellery, so they mix right in with the rest of my pieces. But I also used to draw this thick, block-letter 'S' all over my folders and binders in elementary school, so these earrings sort of give me a nostalgic trip down memory lane." — SW Samii Ryan Letter S Studded Earrings $28 from bysamiiryan.com Buy Now Ribbed Skirt Set Image Source: henne.com.au Henne Romee Knit Tunic ($116) and Henne Romee Knit Skirt ($123) "When I said I was going for quiet luxury with a twist, I wasn't kidding. The cutouts on this ribbed two-piece set reflect the unexpected touch I'm looking for. Meanwhile, the cloud-blue shade of the lightweight pieces looks beautiful, effortless, and luxurious all at once. I'm also obsessed with the outfit in tan, meaning I may have to purchase two different iterations. Luckily, Henne has a friendly price point to appreciate." — SW Henne Romee Knit Tunic $116 from henne.com.au Buy Now Henne Romee Knit Skirt $123 from henne.com.au Buy Now Woven Bangles Image Source: mybeachyside.com My Beachy Side Camelia Bracelets ($12, originally $20) "My Beachy Side is such a fun brand that never fails to help customers complete their look down to the last thought. The perfect example comes by way of these bangles, which match with all the crochet bikinis, earrings, and cover-ups on the site. They allow the wearer to completely immerse herself in summer-friendly fabrics from head to toe, and I'm all about that vibe." — SW My Beachy Side Camelia Bracelets $12 from mybeachyside.com $20 $12 Now 40% off from mybeachyside.com Buy Now Yerin Kim, Breaking News Editor View this post on Instagram A post shared by YERIN KIM (@itsyerinkim) "Summer fashion is challenging for me because I'm never not hot, so I tend to lean towards bright colours, splashier prints, and cool accessories that make up for the lack of styling and texture in my outfits. My shopping list is full of easy, interesting pieces I can just throw on to make a fun outfit, like a vibrant linen cutout dress or a uniquely structured bag. (For the record, pink was my colour before the Barbiecore craze, so I'm also happy to lean into that even further.)" Flat Thong Sandals Image Source: maileworld.com Maile Harper in Pink Cherry ($295) "I'm always on the hunt for a fun shoe for summer, and I've been eyeing these slides from Maile, a new AAPI-owned shoe brand. I love that this trendy style is an elevated, cuter version of your classic, comfy flip-flops." — YK Maile Harper in Pink Cherry $295 from maileworld.com Buy Now One-Shoulder Linen Dress Image Source: nordstrom.com Farm Rio Cutout Flowers Bias Cut One-Shoulder Linen Blend Maxi Dress ($230) "I'm admittedly a lazier dresser in warmer temperatures, so I'm always on the lookout for easy dresses and sets that require minimal styling. Farm Rio's vibrant prints and bright colours check all those boxes — especially this adorable linen number." — YK Farm Rio Cutout Flowers Bias Cut One-Shoulder Linen Blend Maxi Dress $230 from nordstrom.com Buy Now Floral Triangle Bikini Image Source: blackboughswim.com Blackbough Swim Quinn Triangle Top in Arcade Floor Waffle Knit ($60) and Blackbough Swim Quinn Bottoms in Arcade Floor Waffle Knit ($55) "Blackbough Swim has some of the cutest, most flattering swimwear on the market, and the brand's latest collaboration, which celebrates the upcoming season of 'The Summer I Turned Pretty,' has several styles worth snagging. This nostalgic set is definitely on my wish list." — YK Blackbough Swim Quinn Triangle Top in Arcade Floor Waffle Knit $60 from blackboughswim.com Buy Now Blackbough Swim Quinn Bottoms in Arcade Floor Waffle Knit $55 from blackboughswim.com Buy Now Angular Bag Image Source: aupen.com Aupen Purpose Bag ($140) "You've probably seen celebrities like Kylie Jenner and Hailey Bieber rocking cool, asymmetrical bags by this new vegan-leather brand. I love this sleek, angular design in particular — not to mention, the noir and snow shades feel very quiet luxury too." — YK Aupen Purpose Bag $140 from aupen.com Buy Now Lena Felton, Special Projects Director View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lena Felton (@lenakfelton) "This is my first summer in San Francisco after moving from the East Coast, so I'm very much figuring out what my foggy, chilly summer vibe is now. I'm leaning into my usual year-round uniform: unique jeans and pants, chunky sneakers, and lightweight jackets. And as someone who generally sticks to neutrals, I'm trying to introduce more fun pops of colour, whether in a neon Telfar handbag or a colourful nail." Two-Tone Jeans Image Source: driftwoodjeans.com Driftwood Cece Wide Leg Two Tone Jeans ($128) "Denim works all year long in San Francisco, so I am forever on the lookout for cool new jeans. I love these ones: they're comfy, high-waisted, and actually fit a short person like me (I'm 5'2" on a good day, for reference). What's more, they're super unique thanks to the two-tone and split-hem design — details that have garnered many compliments." — LF Driftwood Cece Wide Leg Two Tone Jeans $128 from driftwoodjeans.com Buy Now Flouncy Minidress Image Source: us.saboskirt.com Sabo Nyrobi Dress ($90) "I recently had to buy a pink dress for a bachelorette party, and when I tell you that I am not a pink dress kind of person, believe me. But I really like the Australian-based brand Sabo for their breezy, understated summer dresses, and this one didn't disappoint. It's got cute detailing and isn't too pink." — LF Sabo Nyrobi Dress $90 from us.saboskirt.com Buy Now Oval Sunglasses Image Source: madewell.com Madewell Russell Oval Sunglasses ($70) "I was sceptical of the oval sunglasses trend, as I've long stuck to rounder frames. But I recently dipped my toes into new waters with this tortoise shell pair, and I'm now convinced they're actually more flattering on a rounder face like mine. I'm already back in the market for another oval option to add to my rotation!" — LF Madewell Russell Oval Sunglasses $70 from madewell.com Buy Now Biker Shorts Image Source: reona.ca Re Ona Signature Biker Shorts ($84) "For years now, my go-to summer uniform has consisted of biker shorts, a crop top, and a dressier, lightweight overshirt. I love this pair from Re Ona, a Black women-owned brand. I have the shorts in black, and they're super comfortable and have a good thickness to them; this beige pair is even better for warmer months." — LF Re Ona Signature Biker Shorts $84 from reona.ca Buy Now Kyley Warren, Assistant Editor, Commerce View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kyley Warren (@kyleywarren) "While summer is typically one of my least favourite seasons with regard to fashion, this year I've found myself so inspired to experiment and step outside of my style comfort zone — which for me, mostly just entails infusing a bit more colour into my otherwise neutral wardrobe. Barbiecore fashion is proving to be this season's trend of choice — but alas, I'm still fully immersed in the quiet luxury aesthetic, which prioritises tailored silhouettes, muted colour palettes, and versatile pieces that are designed to live in your wardrobe for the long term. Fitted trousers have quietly (pun intended) become my go-to, especially when worn with cool everyday sneakers, delicate gold jewellery pieces, and the occasional patterned bag. I may not be spending my summer vacationing across Europe, but I figure at least my outfits will make me look like I am (dress for the life you want, right?)." Tailored Pants Image Source: abercrombie.com Abercrombie & Fitch Tailored Wide Leg Pants ($72, originally $90) "When you're 5'10" with a small waist, pretty rounded hips, and little to no booty (it's a work in progress), shopping for pants can be quite a chore. But — like so many of my fashion investments of late — I was influenced by TikTok to try out these tailored pants from Abercrombie & Fitch, which are designed with a universally flattering fit in mind. True to the hype, these wide-leg trousers have quickly become the most worn item in my closet. They hug the body in all the right ways, feature practical side pockets, and come in an ivory-like colouring that feels so fresh for summer. I love teaming them with cropped tanks, like this striped H&M style, along with a sandy brown belt and woven sandals to match." — KW Abercrombie & Fitch Tailored Wide Leg Pants $72 from abercrombie.com $90 $72 Now 20% off from abercrombie.com Buy Now Huggie Hoop Earrings Image Source: etsy.com Kaukab Jewellery Charm Huggie Hoop Earring ($32) "A few years ago I was introduced to Kaukab Jewellery (and its lovely founder) at a farmer's market in Newport Beach, and I've been obsessed with the shop's delicate jewellery pieces ever since. I'm a sucker for classic gold accessories and I love that these earrings encompass the traditional huggie silhouette with an elevated twist — courtesy of the zircon charm, of course. The clear colour is my go-to for a more sophisticated ear design, but the watermelon and peach shades are also so fun for summer." — KW Kaukab Jewellery Charm Huggie Hoop Earring $32 from etsy.com Buy Now Classic Sneakers Image Source: newbalance.com New Balance 574 Core Sneakers ($90) "In other summer news: I've become a New Balance girlie. After years of adamantly avoiding the 'dad sneaker,' a slew of Hailey Bieber street style pictures finally convinced me to give the chunky silhouette a try, and the rest is history. This pair has become a particular favourite of mine because of its muted and neutral colour palette, which makes it easy to style with just about anything in my closet." — KW New Balance 574 Core Sneakers $90 from newbalance.com Buy Now Slip Dress Image Source: renttherunway.com Jason Wu Collective Jacquard Slip Dress ($320) "From weddings to holidays and work events galore, the summer season always requires me to step up my fashion game just a notch. Rather than endlessly investing in random dresses, I love turning to Rent the Runway to help me expand on my summer wardrobe without having to commit to any particular styles. This burnt orange slip dress from Jason Wu has been high on my fashion wish list for a while, and it's proven to be a versatile staple in my closet this season. The silky material feels so cool on the skin, and the jacquard design completes the piece with a really unique texture. Pair it with a bright red Dior lip, and you'll be good to go all night." — KW Jason Wu Collective Jacquard Slip Dress $320 from renttherunway.com Buy Now Mini Basket Bag Image Source: tedbaker.com Ted Baker London Jaysisa Printed Mini Basket Bag ($116, originally $195) "To me, this Ted Baker London bag is the ultimate summer accessory. It's wrapped in a bubbly floral print that's so on-trend for summer without feeling too overbearing. While it looks incredibly luxurious, the handbag's woven picnic basket-inspired design feels warm and relaxed, like you could wear it to a brunch date in the morning and still take it along on a cocktail outing come evening, too." — KW Ted Baker London Jaysisa Printed Mini Basket Bag $116 from tedbaker.com $195 $116 Now 41% off from tedbaker.com Buy Now Naomi Parris, Fashion Contributor View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nay 🦋 (@nayelizabethh) "My style for summer is pretty similar to my approach for any other season. I love colourful pieces and unconventional silhouettes that really push boundaries, while remaining classic. While my style isn't trend driven, I've been loving the resurgence of archival fashion, especially since it brings back so many iconic styles that clearly stand the test of time. And, since nights out in the summer are like no other, I love to step out in a powerful, figure-flattering dress like this gorgeous one from Jean Paul Gaultier." Beach Dress Image Source: kasiakulenty.com Kasia Kulenty Simone Dress ($675, originally $695) "Whoever said beachwear had to be boring? If you're a statement-making fashion girl like me, then you'll love this dress that makes a great cover-up over a chic bikini. Whether it's a much-needed holiday in Tulum or a quick getaway to Miami, you're sure to wear this piece on repeat. Also, I love that it's sustainably made by skilled artisans in Mexico." — NP Kasia Kulenty Simone Dress $675 from kasiakulenty.com $695 $675 Now 3% off from kasiakulenty.com Buy Now Statement Sunglasses Image Source: saksfifthavenue.com Loewe 55MM Inflated Cat-Eye Sunglasses ($360) "Ever since these Loewe sunnies dropped, I've had my eye on them, but they've always been sold out. Fortunately, I found them at Saks and can't wait to style them this season. After all, no summer outfit is truly complete without a fun pair of shades." — NP Loewe 55MM Inflated Cat-Eye Sunglasses $360 from saksfifthavenue.com Buy Now Metallic Mules Image Source: hanifa.co Hanifa Zoe Mules ($331, originally $389) "It's been really exciting to see Hanifa venture into footwear. These mules are so simple in silhouette, yet so powerful and ideal for just about any occasion. I especially love this metallic fuchsia colorway, which is perfect for Beyoncé's Renaissance tour." — NP Hanifa Zoe Mules $331 from hanifa.co $389 $331 Now 15% off from hanifa.co Buy Now Knit Dress Image Source: fumithelabel.com Fumi The Label Naomi Dress ($215) "This summer knit dress not only captured my attention because it holds my name, but also because of its figure-flattering fit. Its asymmetrical buttons allow you to style it in so many ways, from rocking it on its own with a gold pair of heels or styling it over denim shorts. If you're a Naomi, you HAVE to get this dress." — NP Fumi The Label Naomi Dress $215 from fumithelabel.com Buy Now Sun Hat Image Source: nukloset.com NuKloset Straw Hat ($208) "This straw hat is so dramatic, yet it screams luxury — from its oversize shape to the velvet-y feathers that adorn the brim. Style it with your favourite bikini or summer dress, and you're good to go." — NP NuKloset Straw Hat $208 from nukloset.com Buy Now Cutout Swimsuit Image Source: mattecollection.com Matte Collection Heros Monokini in Multi ($28) "I love bold prints, especially for the warmer seasons, and this monokini is no exception. Its high-cut leg detailing and cutouts create a tastefully sultry silhouette that'll have you feeling confident and stylish." — NP Matte Collection Heros Monokini in Multi $28 from mattecollection.com Buy Now Summer FashionShoppingFashion ShoppingEditor's PickMust Haves