The Who What Wear Summer Guide Is Here—Every "Cool Girl" Thing to Know

Summer is just about here, and this editor couldn't be more ready. With cities reopening and travel restrictions lifting, there is optimism in the air and you can really feel the excitement for what lies ahead. As we head into the summer season, there is perhaps no better time for this sense of joy. It's my personal favorite time of the year when wardrobes revolve around warm-weather fashion and suitcases to fill for long weekend escapes.

If you've been contemplating what to add to your shopping cart, you're in luck because our summer fashion guide has arrived. Here, I'm highlighting all of the "cool girl" things to know—aka the key buys of the season that hit on all of our favorite trends. The summer guide zeroes in on the most important buys in every category—from swimwear to shoes to jewelry, and everything in between. You can rest assured that you're adding every essential piece to your closet for a very stylish summer ahead.

Yep, here's more evidence that the fashion world is looking to the past. Colorful, retro prints are back in circulation and I personally can't get enough of the cheerful pieces.

It wouldn't be summer without sandals and this time around, raised flatforms are already winning out. In my opinion, they add an elevated, directional element to any look you wear them with.

We got a glimpse of the three-piece swimwear trend on TikTok earlier this spring and it has really taken over ever since. Simply pair a bikini with a matching skirt, shirt, or hat to fully embrace the trend.

After Valentino debuted its iconic hot-pink button-down on its S/S 21 runway, oversize collared shirts seemed to become a huge trend overnight. Consider this one of the easiest runway-inspired pieces to wear in real life.

Fun fashion is on the rise and that couldn't be more clear than what's happening in the jewelry world. Light-hearted, candy-colored pieces are the thing to own.

Sunglasses are a key accessory for summer and there so many cool styles to choose from this season. I'm personally gravitating to the sculptural shades that feel like small works of art.

That's right—funner, optimistic pieces are headed your way. While there are lots of specific colors I could call out, I think it's worth noting that high-impact shades are truly the dominant color trend of the season.

"Bare all" is the unofficial motto of summer and that means micro hemlines are in full focus. Whether you're opting for a skirt, dress, or hot pants, a super-short is the common thread.

If you're still into loungewear like I am, you'll want to scoop up a matching shorts set. This is the perfect thing to slip into for a casual weekend look or layer over your swimsuit at the beach.

Sporty pieces have really taken over among the fashion set. One of the standout items? A baseball cap to pair with everything from swimsuits to shorts sets.

Cutouts are the detail fashion people are really, really embracing this summer. From tops with peekaboo holes to hip-baring pants, there are so many cool ways to tap into the trend.

Chunky, futuristic sneakers may have dominated in past seasons but right now the key item to own is a pair of throwback shoes that look like they were plucked from the '80s.

There are plenty of new bag trends happening right now, but it's impossible to ignore the classic shapes that are being scooped up by everyone right now. If you're looking for a sound investment item, this is definitely it.

Micro hemlines are huge, but the same can be said for maxi lengths—especially when it comes to skirts. To pull this off, follow the lead of fashion people and wear one with a crop top.

The pointy-heel trend is the cool shoe shape to know about and they're selling out everywhere. If you want to find a pair in your size, I'd recommend adding them to your cart right away.

Relaxed, tailored outfits have emerged as the key fashion insider uniform this season. To follow the formula to replicate the look, pair a white tee, oversize button-down, slouchy trousers, and strappy heels.

Next, shop 25 cool fashion finds I'm obsessing over right now.