If you know me, you know I love a chic neutral summer outfit. Now that the weather is warming up, all my favorite retailers have embraced the elevated French-style playbook that has become my personal style uniform every time the heat rises in New York City. While I'm a kitschy maximalist at heart, I constantly rely on my slew of expensive-looking basics and elevated silhouettes that have me getting more compliments than I know what to do with. Yes, I'm talking about the quiet-luxury movement.
While subdued basics and timeless cuts have long been favorites here at Who What Wear long before Sophie Richie became Sophie Richie Grainge, the adoption of white, khaki, black, and gold into our summer outfit roster is becoming more and more prevalent now that I've spent hours searching for the best affordable summer staples. Don't believe you can get a cool-girl-approved look without spending an arm and leg? Keep scrolling for the best affordable summer staples that might change your mind.
Every good outfit starts with a white tee.
The warmer the weather, the lighter the wash.
Despite being a sunglasses hoarder, these are the pair I keep reaching for to enhance my looks.
French girls love this classic look.
Mermaidcore realness.
Levi's for under $100 is an automatic steal.
This ruched skirt looks so rich.
I have these and can confirm they go with anything in your closet.
If you're looking for a luxe bag that won't break the bank, Charles & Keith has plenty. This chocolate hue will hold up in your wardrobe for years to come.
A linen vest never goes out of style.
If you know, you know.
A chic black belt will instantly transform any pair of pants into a polished, elevated look.
A designer tank for less than $75? I'm adding it to my cart ASAP.
Zara's affordable linen pieces mean you can get the look without missing your payment on an electricity bill or two.
I'll never say no to an elevated ballet flat.
These wide-leg balloon jeans stole my heart when I saw them for the first time last week.
Hello, gorgeous.
This would pair so well with a simple black tank to let the lace shine through.
These aren't your grandmother's pearls.
This dress looks ten times more expensive than it actually is.
I love wearing crotchet tops and dresses all summer long.
Spoiler alert: I have at least three of these shirts in my closet right now.
This chocolate slip is so cool.
When J.Crew's classic styles are on sale, you know I'll buy at least five.
This boxy blazer would go so well with a simple jersey tank and jeans.
These look suspiciously like the sandals Mary-Kate Olsen swears by.
The Hamptons are calling.
Perfect for any pool-side activities.
What can I say? I love linen pants.
These sleek white sneakers are sure to be your summer shoes of choice.
Although I wasn't always the biggest fan of tube tops growing up, this elevated find would go so well with some statement earrings and a black silk skirt.
This raffia clutch is what vacation OOTDs are made of.
Straight outta Prada.
A bucket hat is my secret weapon for making any summer outfit look ten times cooler.
Living for the unconventional shoulder rings.
These pants are equally perfect for a beach outing as they are for Sunday brunch.
Shell-shaped earrings are the '80s trend I never expected to make a comeback.
This adorable dress goes up to a 4X.
Poplin is summer's unofficial best friend.
Next, You've Got Plans, and I've Got Outfits—5 Looks You Can Wear for Summer Events
