42 Nordstrom, J.Crew, and Gap Finds That Are About to Replace All My Summer Basics

Do you ever start shopping and realize that you don't just want one or two items but suddenly crave an entire wardrobe overhaul? Same. On a recent perusing of the new-arrivals section on of my favorite sites, I came across so many strong pieces that I started envisioning a whole new wardrobe with these chic updates. More than anything, it was the new wardrobe basics at Nordstrom, J.Crew, and Gap that really caught my eye and made me consider replacing the very versions in my own closet to start off summer 2025 on a strong note.
These aren't just your plain tanks or basic shorts. No, the new closet updates I'm about to showcase here each have something special about them that sets them apart from the rest—especially the ones already in my closet. Think trendy thong heels, delicate and airy embroidered cotton tops, and even elevated-looking capri pants that are taking over my heart (and cart) right now. They may be more forward than basic, but I already know these will become the foundation for my entire summer wardrobe. Yep, I'm crushing big time on these simple but impactful finds, and I think you will, too. Scroll down to shop them all.
Nordstrom
J.Crew
Gap
Anna is an NYC-based senior fashion editor who has been a member of the Who What Wear team for over seven years, having begun her career in L.A. at brands like Michael Kors and A.L.C. As an editor, she has earned a reputation for her coverage of breaking trends, emerging brands, luxury shopping curations, fashion features, and more. Anna has penned a number Who What Wear cover interviews, including Megan Fox, Julia Garner, and Lilly Collins. She also leads the site’s emerging travel vertical that highlights all things travel and lifestyle through a fashion-person lens.
-
I've Lived in NYC, L.A., and Boston—Here's Everything I Think Is Chic for Summer
Shop the highly curated list.
-
These 31 Rich-Looking Nordstrom Finds Are Giving "I Summer in the Hamptons"
Minus the trust fund.
-
The Perfect $16 Tank Top and More Zara Items I'm Texting Everyone I Know About
Elite finds.
-
Sorry to Millennials, But Gen Z Has Spoken, and These Are the Only 6 Summer Trends That Matter
Shop them all here.
-
I'm a New Shopping Editor in NYC—These 31 Gorgeous Summer Nordstrom Finds Have My Attention
PS: Everything's under $150.
-
My Mom and I Are Summer Shopping—These 30 Nordstrom, Zara, J.Crew, and Revolve Items Are the Chicest
From elevated basics to trendy staples.
-
Adam Sandler–Coded Outfits Are Still Going Strong—5 Ways to Style Baggy Shorts This Summer
Fashion icon first. Comedian second.
-
The Easy Two-Piece Outfit Combo You Have to Copy If You Want to Look Rich This Summer
From Monaco to Miami.