Girl, Bye! 9 Summer Staples I'm Parting With (Plus Their Replacements)

It's time to admit a hard truth: not every staple is equal—especially when considering the pitfalls of warm weather. Sure, everyone has that one foundational staple that they stan, but those sentiments can shift in the summertime. The idea of wearing a semi-sheer tank top during an afternoon rainstorm? Trouble in waiting. Slipping into a pair of skinny jeans when it's scorching hot outside? Pure suffering. Basically, this season requires everyone (even fashion editors) to reevaluate which items will actually work and which ones need to be put on the back burner for the time being. Of course, making those choices isn't always easy—luckily, I've got your back.

In the vein of streamlining your summer capsule wardrobe and, by proxy, my very own, I've spent hours contemplating, researching, and compiling a list of tried-and-true items. Ahead, I'm breaking down a comprehensive guide to the summer wardrobe essentials worth spending your money on this season. Although every person should curate a closet that fits their taste, budget, and lifestyle, I'm giving a few suggestions on which basics might be worth packing away for the time being because they fit the requirements needed from our garments during the warm-weather season. Plus, I've identified 9 summer staples that are both pragmatic and polished. Fair warning: I've got some "controversial" takes, but I can assure you these items are far superior to the rest.

Parting With (For Now): Revealing Tank Tops

Replacing With: Silk Tank Tops

While there's no denying the staying power of a simple tank top, they're not always a safe option to wear to work during the summertime (if you want to stay in good graces with your boss). Even if you opt for one with a more modest neckline, chances are the ribbed material can either be incredibly see-through or still far too casual for work. However, that doesn't mean you have to give up this staple altogether—enter silk tanks into the chat. By opting for this basic in silk or satin, you inadvertently make this item feel more formal while also avoiding potential fashion faux pas.

Parting With (For Now): Mirco Shorts

Replacing With: Pleated Shorts

Shorts for summer? Here for it. Short-shorts? Not so much. While the mirco hemlines are ideal for extremely hot days, they're not exactly the chicest option for occasions that aren't casual. Luckily, pleated shorts are the perfect alternative. Whether you opt for a flowy pair of high-waisted shorts or long-length linen Bermudas, these shorts are a safe bet for summer.

Parting With (For Now): Little Black Dress

Replacing With: Little White Dress

Sorry, don't hate me for what I'm about to say, but some shades must be sidelined in the warm-weather season—black is one of them. Don't get it twisted; the little black dress is a staple that stands the test of time (until you're sweating to death on a summer day). Therefore, one of the easiest swaps you can make is to start wearing little white dresses. Whether maxi-length or midi-length, linen or lace, the white dress will be a great alternative to your LBD for the time being.

Parting With (For Now): Suede Bags

Replacing With: Woven Tote Bag

Although I'm a sucker for a suede handbag, sweaty summer days can ruin this textile. Rather than dealing with trying to clean a suede handbag from rain or deodrant stains, it's best to swap it for a more durable type of bag for the season—ahem, woven bags. Nothing says summer quite like a tote bag made from straw, wicker, or raffia. It's one of the few accessories that have been cemented as a staple among the fashion crowd.

Shop the staple:

Parting With (For Now): Oversized Blazers

Replacing With: Tailored Waistcoats

Before you cancel me, hear me out: it's too hot to wear that many layers, much less an oversized blazer. Therefore, I'll be putting my blazers in storage in lieu of a more weather-friendly option: a waistcoat. What's great about vest tops is that they can not only be worn to work settings when it's incredibly hot outside, but more importantly, they work with just about anything (e.g., slacks, skirts, shorts, and so on).

Parting With (For Now): Tight Trousers

Replacing With: Relaxed Trousers

Let me be clear: tailored trousers will always be relevant. However, when it's excessively hot outside, the last thing you want to do is squeeze into a pair of tight pants. Luckily, there's a more breezy alternative: relaxed trousers. The key to ensuring this style is more pragmatic for the summer is to opt for a pair made from linen, silk, or cotton. It will keep you physically cool while also ensuring you look cool, too.

Parting With (For Now): Chunky Sneakers

Replacing With: Minimalist Sandals

Even though chunky sneakers will always have a certified time and place, come summertime, it's best to swap out your kicks for something more seasonal—ahem, sandals. Whether you opt for a thong, slide, or strappy sandal, a pair of sleek and minimalist sandals will anchor any outfit for any occasion.

Parting With (For Now): Puff Sleeve Tops

Replacing With: Oversize Button-Down

You can't scroll through Instagram without seeing a fashion girl sporting a puff-sleeved blouse. While they'll always be really pretty, if you're looking for something more polished, then a relaxed oversized button-down is a better option. Whether styled over a silk tank or paired with pleated shorts, this simple staple will make you look sophisticated all summer.

Parting With (For Now): Baggy Denim Shorts

Replacing With: Capri Pants

I warned you I was going to be coming in hot with some controversial takes! While baggy denim shorts will always be a fashion-girl favorite, if you're looking for an alternative that's a bit more elevated, then capri pants are perfect for you. As we've begun to see petal pushers permeate the fashion scene again, now's the perfect time to put them to the test as a new staple. Whether you choose to style them with an oversized button-down or waistcoat, they're a staple that you'll surely wear for the rest of the summer.