The Prettiest Summer Tops to Pair With Skirts and Shorts

I don't know about you, but there are certain wardrobe categories I have a harder time shopping for than others. I find myself consistently gravitating toward items like dresses and shoes while basically ignoring others entirely. I've recently realized that one such ignored category is summer tops. My closet is seriously lacking top options, which has become glaringly apparent as I try to put together outfits with shorts and skirts during this heat wave.
Finding the right top to pair specifically with shorts and skirts can be tricky, as not all silhouettes feel balanced with these particular bottoms. The material has to be lightweight and in a seasonal color, and of course, the length has to hit at the right spot on the waist. I also don't want anything too fussy in the summer—my goal is to have a selection of easy tops that are equal parts pretty and wearable. Just a simple ask, right? So I took it upon myself to find the best options the internet has to offer, for both my closet and yours, and as always, the internet came through. From vintage-inspired halters to delicate eyelet details, below are the best summer tops to pair with skirts and shorts.
Wait until you see the matching skirt.

-
This Very Specific White Tank Top Is All You Need to Be On Trend This Summer
The neckline to champion this season.
-
I Miss Going-Out Tops—These 30 Feel Very 2025
Justice for the going-out top.
-
5 Elegant Color Combos Every Cool European Will Be Wearing This Summer
Number four is our favorite.
-
Forget Outfit Anxiety—This Hack Is Making Styling Stress Entirely Obsolete
No more panicking about what to wear.
-
The New Rules of Summer Denim: No Rips, No Fray, No Fuss
See the full set of rules inside.
-
The 2025 Vacation Edit: Every Cool Trend and Brand to Pack in Your Suitcase
Ready your PTO.
-
How Backyardcore Quietly Took Over Summer Style
The latest dressing trend we're obsessed with.
-
The Elegant Blouse Fashion People Will Be Wearing With Jeans the Entire Summer
The definition of a "nice top."