Random people I've never met DM me about fashion advice, so it's only fitting that as the resident shopping expert of my group chat, my friends would do the same. And while the barrage of shopping texts usually comes at a constant flow, this month's concern follows along the lines of what most people are thinking about this time of year: how to look cute when it's blazing hot and you have a million trips ahead? For some context, my friends are mostly trend-curious creatives in their late 20s and early thirties. However, they're still aiming for a polished look that screams "I have my stuff together." Fortunately for them, we're in peak quiet luxury, so there's no shortage of options that hit all of those points. But my suggestions weren't all poplin button-downs and tailored dresses—I also recommended a few statement prints and jewelry to add a dose of visual interest.
Consider this your full invite to the group chat—keep scrolling for all of the top-tier buys I highly recommend.
H&M
Linen-Blend Pants
First up, I always recommend a pair of linen pants. And while pairs exist across all price points, I've never regretted a pair from H&M.
By Anthropologie
Triple Wave Post Earrings
Vintage-looking earrings, the kind that are deliciously big, is what fashion people can't stop wearing right now. Although they're having a moment, these earrings truly never go out of style.
Edikted
Oversize Low Rise Denim Bermuda Shorts
If you don't think you can wear shorts (and still look good), I'd heavily suggest trying out a looser Bermuda cut. You can wear them with ballet flats, sneakers, heels—honestly whatever your heart desires.
Urban Outfitters
Embossed Chain Belt
A friend also asked for an unconventional accessory to perk up her outfits, and I immediately sent a link to this belt. I'd style it over a sleek dress or maxi skirt.��
The Reformation
Emerald Knit Top
Now this is a summer top.
H&M
Bandeau Dress
I'm always a fan of an under $50 buy.
Zara
Heeled Metallic Mules
Call me a granny, but I strongly believe that kitten heel mules are the icing on top for a cute warm weather outfit.
Pixie Market
Cocoa Brown Oversized Shirt
Please don't underestimate the power of a big shirt—while simple the sartorial impact is huge.
The Reformation
Brayden Knit Top
Here's how to look chic while wearing as little as possible.
Bdg
Kendall Denim Maxi Skirt
This skirt is such a throwback, but it's also fun and really flattering on the body (I own it!).
Zara
Faux Leather Cropped Jacket
If you plan on going to Europe this summer (like 99% of my Instagram feed) then yes, you'll need a light layer. The reality is it gets chilly quite unexpectedly, and for that this cropped jacket comes in clutch.
Pixie Market
Grey Silky Full Maxi Skirt
One can really never have enough easy, breezy skirts.
Crystal Haze Jewelry
Habibi + Not So Heartless Gold-Plated Cubic Zirconia Necklace
Admittedly I'm in my jewelry era, so naturally, I sent along this stunning necklace to the group.
House of Cb
Camelia Plunge Halter Neck Rib Maxi Dress
Whether the destination is Mallorca or Martha's Vineyard, this color and shape will work.
Pixie Market
Fall-In-Love Halter Knit Zip Top W Shrug
This top would work perfectly with shorts.
Brandon Blackwood
Madison Bag
The red netting over pink leather is such a cool colorblock moment.
The Reformation
Nelle Knit Dress
For those who's itinerary includes Italy, I implore you to buy this.
Jacquemus
Le Haut De Maillot Signature Bikini Top
There are too many fun bikinis out there to settle for the same basic cuts. This Jacquemus set is a statement yet not too revealing.
Pixie Market
Ivory Knit Crochet Dress Set
Sets are lifesavers when you're packing at the 11th hour.
Jean Paul Gaultier
Scarf Print Long Sleeve Tulle Top
At this point, Jean Paul Gaultier is a requirement for my closet.
Hunting Season
Small Leather-Trimmed Raffia Tote
I seen enough straw totes to last a lifetime, but this rounded shape with leather trim feels quite unique, (and delightfully understated).
Jacquemus
Le Tshirt Perola
It's not just any shirt.
Sterling King
Delphinium Stud Earrings
Believe me when I say earrings make the outfit.
Cult Gaia
Akaia Linen Blend Dress
It's hard to beat Cult Gaia in the vacation dress category.
Clio Peppiatt
Sunset Bead-Embellished Satin Shoulder Bag
You heard it here: Clio Peppiatt is the name to know.
Scholl x Issimo
Pescura Buckled Leather-Trimmed Canvas Clogs
Dr Scholl's signature clogs got a facelift and the result is so good.
Jacquemus
Le Panier Soli Raphia Tote
This bag is like raffia on steroids, but trust me when I say compliments are inevitable wearing this.
Magda Butrym
Embellished Lace-Up Satin Sandals
If your black heel collection is in need of some jazzing, these are the perfect choice.
Loewe
Printed Stretch-Mesh Midi Dress
As a Loewe stan there was no way I could leave it off the list.
Indya Brown is a fashion editor, stylist, and writer living in Los Angeles. After graduating in 2016, she joined The Cut as a fashion assistant, eventually working her way up to fashion editor. While New York has been her home for over 10 years, she moved to Los Angeles in the midst of the pandemic in 2020 for a new chapter where she started working at Who What Wear, focusing on emerging designers, rising trends on and off the internet, interior design, and BIPOC creatives and brands. Aside from her work at Who What Wear, Brown is also a freelance stylist and writer, working on national print and video commercial campaigns for Sephora, The Independent, and Cadillac. Her bylines also include Harper's Bazaar, Vox, and The New York Times.