13 Summer Style Essentials for Every Budget

We might be big fans of cashmere sweaters and perfectly pulled-together winter layers, but we can’t help but love the laid-back, carefree feel of summer style. Whether you’re hitting up a barbecue or chillin’ on the beach, it doesn’t take much to throw together a warm-weather look that’s totally on point. To give your much-loved warm-weather wardrobe a taste of 2015, we’re sharing some of our favorite must-haves for the season.

1. Throwback Swimsuit: Palm prints and high-waisted silhouettes are it for 2015, so go for a suit that combines the best of both worlds. Classic green palm leaves on this Gabi Fresh Paradise Found two-piece ($98) feel fresh and oh-so-appropriate for summer, while this We Are Handsome number ($318) boasts a timeless, but no less eye-catching aesthetic.

2. Button-Front Skirt: Can we talk about all the re-wear potential of these skirts? Come fall, just match up this baby with a pair of tights, rad ankle boots and your favorite knit, and you’re good to go. Get your denim fix with a casually cool Denim Button-Front Skirt ($59) — a grown-up twist on your denim mini from days of old — or up your game with a stunning Suede Button-Front Skirt ($140).

3. Espadrilles: Super comfortable and stylish to boot, the espadrille has been more or less been dubbed this summer’s standout shoe. We promise, once you get your feet in these rope-bottomed steppers, you’re not going to want to take them off. We’re partial to the classic canvas variety decked out with a funky print, like these Lime and Coconut Smoking Slippers ($65), for all our off-duty outings. To really turn some heads, a pair of shimmery Flirting Espadrilles ($288) are where it’s at.

4. Off-the-Shoulder Dress: Flirty, feminine and fuss-free, off-the-shoulder dresses are the perfect warm-weather frock. A boho interpretation ($62) of the fabulous piece is a must for everything from picnics in the park to festivals, while a romantic midi style ($158) should make it into your date-night repertoire.

5. Flatforms: One of our favorite fashion blasts from the past has to be the flatform. The cooler counterpart to the wedge is the ultimate stepper for girls with fashion-forward, contemporary style. Our favorite way to wear them? Pair a bright crisscross set ($50) with culottes and an oversized mesh top for a sports-luxe vibe, or throw on a pencil skirt, short-sleeve button-down and a sleeveless blazer with golden loafer-inspired flatforms ($238) for a chic getup with modern edge.

6. Striped Maxi Dress: A maxi dress is like a white tee or a pair of jeans — you just gotta have one. Stripes are one of those prints that never go out of style, and long vertical lines are universally flattering. If you’re looking to fill in a few gaps in the dress category of your closet, a Striped Tasseled Halter Dress ($95) isn’t a bad bet. Of course, if upgrading your essentials is on your to-do list, then this Avina Silk Jumper ($279) — part maxi, part romper — is the piece you need.

7. Straw Tote Bag: Trade out your go-to carry-all this season for a straw bag that multitasks like a boss. Look to structured totes with graphic patterns ($50) or brightly colored sacs ($138) with intriguing add-ons to take you from the beach to the boardroom in style.

8. Printed Romper: For the those days when you’re short on time or you just can’t even, a romper is your best friend. A playsuit ($82) with a plunging neckline is the ideal no-fuss outfit for a night out, while a playful georgette romper ($198) is just begging to be taken to the beach.

9. Fabulous Floppy Hat: Channel your inner diva with an oversized floppy hat that just screams glam. The bigger the brim, the greater your poolside swagger. This Dramatic Floppy Sunhat ($49) knocks it out of the park, while this sassy Do Not Disturb ($435) topper will make sure that beachside nap goes uninterrupted.

10. High-Waisted Shorts: From swimsuits to shorts, high-waisted pieces have been gaining some major sartorial ground lately. If your stock of leg-baring bottoms is in need of a pick-me-up, a pretty floral-printed pair ($60) or a bold carnival-inspired set ($281) are just what the stylist ordered.

11. Metal Bar Shades: Protecting those peepers should be one of your #1 priorities this summer. If you’re the type who constantly loses her shades, stick with an affordable set that packs a major punch, like these Rounded Sunglasses With a Metal High Bar ($22). Or if you’re looking to invest in a pair that just get better with time, these Dior Mirrored Two-Tone Aviator Sunglasses ($435) are dreamy.

12. Gladiator Sandals: The age-old gladiator style has major staying power and pairs perfectly with everything from a simple tank and shorts to flirty, feminine dresses. An understated lace-up pair ($68) will allow you a bit of flexibility with your look, while a set of structured wedge sandals ($430) are fabulous enough to make even those of the ancient fashion set totally jeals.

13. Sleek Cuff: Take a tip from the runway this summer by completing your lightweight getups with sleek, modern cuffs that add a subtle, tough-girl edge. Opt for styles with one-of-a-kind qualities, like cutouts and negative space ($7) or chain accents ($315) that will introduce dramatic appeal to any outfit.

What pieces are on your summer must-have list? Tell us in the comments!

I don't know if it's bad luck, but I definitely wear my linen dresses — even the white ones — way past Labor Day. As long as the sun is shining and the air is warm, you will usually catch me in one of these comfortable, breathable, and obviously adorable little pieces. Another great thing about linen is that it generally will never go out of style, so don't be afraid to invest in some pieces that will be a part of your wardrobe forever. There are so many great options to choose from, but here are seven linen dresses that make the perfect summer (or any warm weather) outfit.

Abercrombie & Fitch

The A&F Emerson Linen-Blend Puff Sleeve Mini Dress

You guys, I'm not even kidding when I say this is the best dress I own. As a broad shoulder girly, the neckline is SO flattering. Plus, the material is thick and durable, but still breathable for a hot summer day. I own this in black which allows me to dress it up for dinner or wear it to work, but this vibrant pink — and the several other colors and patterns — is so cute for the summer time. At $60 (was $80), this is a steal!

J.Crew

J.Crew Squareneck Midi Dress In Linen

I need to be wearing this dress with a spritz in my hand ASAP. This dress is a J.Crew best seller for a reason — it makes the perfect warm weather staple. This design is so simple, yet with the help of some fun accessories, this dress can be a hundred different outfits. You can shop this dress in white, red, or black for $178.

Zara

Zara Linen Blend Midi Dress

You can never go wrong with a little slit in the summer. This linen blend dress is simple, yet elegant — perfect for any vacay dinner or date night. Throw on some cute sandals and chunky earrings and hit the town in this little green number. Plus, the tie-up back gives you easy adjustment depending on your chest size. Make this your next summer dress for $36 (was $49).

Madewell

Madewell Square-Neck Mini Dress in 100% Linen

Great, I'll take 10 of them! No seriously — this dress is fabulous, the square neckline is just perfection, and stretchy chest area make this dress fit anyone like a glove. You can get this dress in white for a classic summer look, or it's also available in a light blue. If you're a tall girl, this style shows off your beautiful long legs. You can also get it in a wide range of sizes for $93 (was $110).

Abercrombie & Fitch

The A&F Emerson Strapless Linen-Blend Maxi Dress

Oh my god, the color of this dress is everything! I also appreciate a strapless dress in the summertime to show off my tan lines — there's something so luxurious and indulgent about it. This piece is so simple, which means room for you to customize with accessories. Although it's true to size, always be careful about sizing with strapless! A perfect linen staple for $72 (was $120).

Abercrombie & Fitch

A&F Linen-Blend Shell Mini Dress

There's something about a dress with an open back that always gets me. It makes for a fun little surprise you wouldn't expect from looking at the front of the dress — and it's a great excuse for an updo. This piece would be perfect for any more professional setting like work, happy hour with your fave coworkers, or lunch with the in-laws. You could be its next prideful owner for $42 (was $70).

H&M

H&M Linen Slip Dress

I cannot think of anything more summer appropriate than a linen slip dress. It's lightweight, super comfortable, and you can dress it up for a fancy dinner, or literally use it as a bathing suit cover up. Everyone needs a slip dress as part of their summer capsule closet. Add this one from H&M to yours in white or black for $55!

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Don't get me wrong, tacky holiday decorations can be a lot of fun, from ugly sweater parties to Griswold-style outdoor lights. I love strolling the neighborhood for the most OTT holiday houses and thinking creatively what I'll wear to my friend Marie's annual corny Christmas party. I'm here for all the intentional tacky decor.... just not in my home. Tacky can also mean plastic and wasteful and just well hard to look at if you're going for any sort of non-tacky decor aesthetic. If you want to invest in more natural holiday decor this year (fresh pine wreaths, linen tree skirts, beeswax candles), steer clear of these tacky holiday decorations!

Super-Sized Yard Decor

Wayfair

Fionnula Bumble Lighted Display

As much as my kiddo loves these over-the-top inflatables and animated light-up figures, I have to say no to the super-sized lawn ornaments, like Santa riding a motorcycle, enormous snowmen, or this Bumble Lighted Display from the movie classic "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer." They can be pricey and take up a ton of storage, but for those who love them the more the merrier!

Christmas Light Explosions

Shutterstock

Covering every square inch of your house, trees, and yard with twinkling, multicolored lights or flashing LEDs can look chaotic and well crazy. It's an art form to get it right, but when done well it can bring holiday cheer to the block. When done wrong, well, it's sort of a waste of time and money.

Tinsel Snot

Amazon

Amazon Christmas Icicle Tinsel

Is tinsel making a comeback? Please say it isn't so. It not only looks tacky IMHO, but it makes it harder to recycle your natural tree. (Our Girl Scout chapter picks up our trees the day after Christmas for recycling - but not if there's tinsel on it!). Anyway, if you have nostalgia feels for tinsel, go for it sparingly and avoid this drippy snot look. We want to see that pretty tree!

Ugly Christmas Sweaters

Tipsy Elves

Tipsy Elves Women's Ugly Christmas Sweater

Ugly Christmas sweaters are intentionally tacky, but what's with all the stores capitalizing on them? I liked it back when you could get creative and DIY your holiday sweater, but now you can find racks full of garish colors, clashing patterns, and glittery appliqués. Maybe we can rein it in this year?

Overly Trad Decor

Wayfair

Faux Lighted Wreath

The angels, the harps, the bells, the Merry Christmas sign, oh my! Overly trad Christmas decor can make a home feel dated. Sure, if you have some childhood favorites, toss them into the mix of modern-day neutral holiday decor, like natural linens, fresh garland, and naturally scented candles.

Metallic Garland

Amazon

Amazon Metallic Garland

Can we just skip the metallic garland this year? It's wasteful, it's hard to wrap and unwrap around your tree (so much so you just want to toss it in the trash after), and it just makes your tree look like a blast from the past.

According to Stanford University's Waste Reduction, Recycling, Composting and Solid Waste Program, household waste increases by more than 25 percent during the holidays with additional waste like packaging, wrapping paper, and one-use decorations contributing an additional 1 million tons of landfill trash each week from Thanksgiving to New Year's. Better alternatives? Satin ribbons, dried orange slices, cranberry garlands, and felt garlands that you won't throw away. Even the classic construction paper chain link would be an upgrade!

Corny Theme Pillows

Amazon

Christmas Theme Pillows

I'm on the fence about the Buffalo plaid too, but it's a classic pattern (we just see it everywhere now). The pillows on the other hand are a little much, no?

Chair Covers

Amazon

Christmas Chair Covers

Why do we need these? Maybe just tie a velvet ribbon with mistletoe or add Scandi-style sheepskin to your chairs and call it a holiday.

Christmas Character Themes

Amazon

Grinch's Christmas Tree Decorations

The Grinch's green isn't quite Christmas green, putting it even higher on the tacky spectrum. Anything with characters says tacky to me and sort of distorts the meaning of the holidays.

Bathroom Decorations

Amazon

Christmas Theme Bathroom Decorations

If you want to make your guests giggle, this tacky set will do the trick.

Porch Banners

Amazon

Christmas Porch Banners

Loud and proud!

Kitschy Tea Towels

Amazon

Amazon Christmas Towels

The jokes just don't quite hit the way they should. Also, the traditional red and green are killing me! But of course, there's a time and place for tacky Christmas decorations and bringing a little joy to the season. Happy holidays!

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Amazon is without a doubt THE spot for accessories — I get all of my jewelry, hats and purses from there. Given their wide selection of quality products that won't break the bank, Amazon is my stomping ground for a durable pair of sunnies, too. I mean, in my very expert opinion, you can honestly never have too many pairs of sunglasses anyway. With that in mind, here are 10 pairs of Amazon sunglasses to wear this summer — all for under $20!

Amazon

SOJOS Retro Oval Sunglasses

These shades are a #1 best seller right now! You have so many different lenses to choose from to match any occasion. Besides their cute style, they have a UV 400 protection to keep your eyes safe. And seriously, you can't go wrong with these $16 shades that fit any face shape.

Amazon

GUVIVI Trendy Oval Sunglasses

I LOVE the vintage 90s look you can achieve with oval sunglasses like these. They can dress up any outfit or be worn casually for a day at the beach. You can shop them in many colors, but I personally would opt for a black or brown so you can wear them with anything. These shades are sturdy, durable and only $14.

Amazon

Mosanana Trendy Rectangle Sunglasses

Any outfit with a statement piece is right up my ally. Why not add a pair of chunky shades to your repertoire. I find the thicker the glasses the more comfortable they sit on your face, and they are good for any occasion. These $14 glasses are available in both neutrals and fun colors for a pop.

Amazon

SOJOS Classic Polarized Aviator Sunglasses

Aviator sunglasses will NEVER fail you. I promise. This shape is timeless and won't go out of style. (at least over my dead body) This pair on Amazon is only $15 and comes with polarized lenses for long term eye protection.

Amazon

WearMe Pro Reflective Lens Round Trendy Sunglasses

Though I cannot personally rock this shape, I have seen countless people around me wearing these glasses. These round sunnies are the perfect Ray Band dupe that won't harm your wallet, but the quality and comfort is still there. WearMe Pro is a small family owned business, so you know that your glasses are made with care. Get yourself a pair for only $14.

Amazon

Colrea Trendy Cat Eye Sunglasses

A cat eye glasses shape is so effortlessly chic. Plus, who doesn't love a big lens? They look amazing on literally any face shape. These Colrea glasses are made with care and quality and are perfect for an elevated look. There are many lens color options, but I would personally stick to a simple black lens for a timless look. And only for $15!

Amazon

AIEYEZO Retro Square Sunglasses

We are going back in time with these retro 70s aviator glasses. The vintage look is always trending, and these sunnies are no exception. The double bridge style is unique but manages to suit everyone. Bonus, these $13 glasses are unisex so literally anyone can rock these bad boys.

Amazon

Dollger Square Oversized Sunglasses

Kim Kardashian called, she wants her sunglasses back. I am obsessed with shades that make you look like an off duty celebrity, just like these. They provide style, but also great eye protection. This shape is lightweight and comfortable but can always dress up an outfit to make you feel like serious business for only $14.

Amazon

SOJOS Classic Square Oversized Sunglasses

Another timeless sunglass shape that gives chic energy. I find this shape flattering on anyone of any age. The nose bridge detailing is super cute and makes these shades unique. This $16 classic square sunnies are dainty yet durable.

Amazon

FEISEDY Classic Women Sunglasses

The best way to incorporate some color into a bland outfit is with some colorful sunnies. The rectangle shape with pointed edges is chic and unique. These sunnies look high end and are sustainable for any activity, You can find these in pink, blue, champagne, and more for only $16.

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Lead image via Amazon.

How many times am I going to mention Nobody Wants Thisbefore this year ends? The world may never know — but I'm doing my best to move on from it...at least until we finally get season 2! Instead, I'm here to talk about all the shows you can watch right now that feel similar to Kristin Bell and Adam Brodyin the best rom-com I've ever seen. I'm not pretending that they're going to give you everything Nobody Wants This did, but they hold their own weight as standalone shows worth watching.

Amazon Studios

Fleabag

Looking for the much spicier version of Nobody Wants This? Well, Fleabag has just what the doctor ordered. As Fleabag (Phoebe Waller-Bridge) haphazardly grapples with grief, she boldly speaks her mind and refuses the support of others. She's known for her, uh, colorful language and is seen juggling an awkward love life.

Both seasons are available to watch on Amazon Prime!

John Medland/Hulu

How To Die Alone

How To Die Aloneis the one of the closest TV series that feels like Nobody Wants This because it follows a similar formula. But instead of centering around two people whose lives intersect, viewers are introduced to Melissa (Natasha Rothwell). She's taken a laissez-faire approach to life because she's basically given up on it and doesn't see the point in try to hope for more. It isn't until a rude awakening knocks her off her feet that she decides to start making more intentional choices. The more Melissa truly starts living, the more she's able to find a spark of magic in everyday living.

Stream it on Hulu today!

Apple TV+

Platonic

I , for one, love when pop culture champions genuine platonic friendships between men and women. So often we hear that it's impossible for the opposite sex to keep things friendly, but Platonic exists as the best counterargument. Viewers get to watch two former best friends — Sylvia (Rose Byrne) and Will (Seth Rogen) reconnect after something soured in their friendship. They quickly find themselves in hilarious scenarios that make their everyday lives a little more stressful than they'd like and it doesn't take long for the cracks in their foundation to start showing again. Overall, there is love in this show but it normalizes the way it shows up in friendships.

Be sure to watch it on Apple TV+!

CW

Sullivan's Crossing

If you haven't watched Sullivan's Crossing yet, what are you waiting for? Before I watched Nobody Wants This, this TV series was #1 on my list — and I hardly ever binge watch new shows anymore. It could have something to do with the fact Chad Michael Murray makes us wish he were Cal Jones in real life.

Anyway, the series is all about neurosurgeon Maggie Sullivan (Morgan Kohan) and her return to her hometown. She slowly starts reconnecting with the people she left behind — including her dad (Scott Patterson) — and a potential romantic interest that adds color to her life.

Barbara Nitke/Netflix

Based on a True Story

Although there are elements of love in Based on a True Story, it's something true crime fans will thoroughly enjoy because it revolves around everyday people who set out to make money based on the popularity of the genre. Ironically, Ava Bartlett (Kaley Cuoco) has the same obsession as other people who can't stop listening to podcasts or watching documentaries about serial killers or unsolved mysteries. Not only does it put a strain on her personal relationships, but she and her husband Nathan realize there's a serial killer in their inner circle that has to be stopped before they hurt more people.

Binge watch the first and second seasons on Netflix this weekend.

Trust me — these are the TV shows that will keep your group chat buzzing until Thanksgiving. Follow us on Facebook for more recs!

Designing the perfect home is like self-care. Our spaces are increasingly evolving into our personal sanctuaries as more of us blend our living and working spaces. In 2025, this trend will continue, transforming homes into multifunctional havens: wellness retreats, gathering spots, hubs of tech convenience, and true reflections of personal style. "Creating a personal space and putting your signature on your home to create something unique will be a 2025 trend," says Lily Li, an interior designer from San Francisco's BoConcept. Gone are the generic, cookie cutter designs we see everywhere. 2025 will be all about you and what you love.

Here are top design trends for 2025, according to a recent Home Lifestyles 2025 report from global trend forecaster WGSN, plus our favorite 2025 trends buzzing on the home decor scene!

Elevated 70s

Design: A1000XBetter | Photo: Michael P.H. Clifford

Wood drenching is back from the '70s with a more grown-up look. Resurfacing are elevated designs and quality woods with '70s decor like sleek chrome lamps, shag rugs, chenille, and burgundy. Disco lamps optional.

Post-Modernism

CB2

CB2 Bodene Ivory Resin Coffee Table

Inspired by 1980s post-modernism, AKA "the designer decade," everything from coffee tables to sofas are coming out with unique shapes and unexpected designs. Look for more sculptural pieces that play together with a still-minimal vibe.

Asymmetrical Rugs

Etsy

Etsy Handtufted Irregular Shaped Rug

Hopping on the curve trend are rugs in 2025. Play with your wooly shapes for a more organic look.

Intentional Design

Design: A1000XBetter | Photo: Michael P.H. Clifford

As more people become concerned about climate change, WGSN expects 2025 will bring more services that help us reuse and repair. Things like refillable beauty products, climatarian cuisine (food chosen based on its carbon footprint), and products and services that encourage DIY, resale and repair will be big in 2025. Choosing quality pieces that will stand the test of time and even incorporating vintage pieces for their uniqueness and sustainability factor will be part of this trend.

Warm Neutrals

Ruggable

Ruggable Laine Ivory & Natural Tufted Rug

Warm neutrals like chalk, oat milk and taupe are colors that we'll see more of for versatile home decor. But don't worry, color will be back in a big way too. Organic greens like kelp and emerald, oxblood, clay, sepia, and terracotta will add some richness while soothing pastels like glacier blue and mellow peach, plus flashes of brights like pink and teal, will also grace our 2025 homes.

Color + Pattern Drenching

Le Mieux et Cie

Color drenching will remain a strong trend in 2025, with bold, saturated hues covering entire spaces for a cohesive, dramatic effect. Layering patterns on patterns will also make a statement, as wallpaper and fabric work together to bring texture, character, and a fresh canvas to your space.

Statement Ceilings

Rebel Walls

Rebel Walls Bruno Sand Wallpaper

The fifth wall is having a moment, with everything from wallpaper and painted stripes to statement chandeliers adding unexpected flair overhead.

Sensorial Homes

Design: House of Rolison | Photo by Gavin Cater

WGSN forecasts a rise in sensory-driven decor for 2025, so products that soothe our senses. Think ASMR-inspired products like virtual sound baths to enhance focus, mood-boosting products that align with color psychology, robotic scent diffusers, experiential showers and chromatherapy.

Comfort Zones

Crate & Barrel

Crate and Barrel Sogno Chaise Lounge

2025 is all about comfort. Think plush, deep sofas, curvy chaises, and furniture with sweater-like textures, creating cozy nooks and rooms you’ll want to sink into with a good book or enjoy chats with your friends and family.

Discreet Design

Kam Idris

Tech and aesthetics don't always play well together, but that’s set to change. Expect more discreet tech products and kitchen appliances designed to blend seamlessly with decor. Look for natural materials, soft textiles, minimalist shapes, and inviting colors, along with clever design solutions that conceal tech — like photo frames that double as phone chargers.

"More and more people are choosing to live in smaller spaces or want to use rooms for multiple purposes. Multi-functional pieces will be growing in popularity, including hidden storage options or transformative furniture," says Li.

Biophilic Design

George Kantartzis

Research shows that plants can actually make us happier, so why not design our homes around them? In 2025, expect to see smart gardens with sensor-regulated watering, furniture with built-in planters, and nature-inspired decor. It's all about bringing the outdoors in, and the indoors out.

Outdoor Luxury

Meredith Kleinman Design

Outdoor spaces are becoming true extensions of our homes, with features like al fresco kitchens, plunge pools, outdoor showers (#goals), and cozy outdoor rugs and sofas made with durable, weather-resistant fabrics for fully functional spaces to enjoy most of the year.

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