In a perfect world, we'd be able to splurge on every cool new trend that catches on each season. But, since we don't sleep on $1 million in cash at night, shopping has to become more of a science, deciding which pieces are worth investing in (think silhouettes and It items that have staying power) and which aren't.
This summer, though, there are a few standout items we're totally getting behind. And it doesn't matter if you're willing to shell out the big bucks or just want to spend the extra cash in your wallet. Splurgers and savers, you're all welcome here. Click on to shop 12 summer must-haves you can justify buying, regardless of how many digits are currently in your bank account.
The Invisible Sandal: Up High
A favorite among bloggers and It Girls, the clear sandal that reminds us of our favorite childhood pair of jellies can easily replace your go-to slides and flip-flops.
Simone Rocha Clear Jelly Sandals, $1,120 $515, available at Ssense.
The Invisible Sandal: Down Low
Easy to walk in, easy to wear.
Jeffrey Campbell Verina-2, $125, available at Jeffrey Campbell.
The Peekaboo Shoulder: Up High
We probably sound like broken records when it comes to pushing the off-shoulder top, but the new wave is extra luxe and extra voluminous. Plus, it still has straps, making the wear a bit more comfortable.
Anna October Khaki Jacquard Top, $505 $354, available at More Is Love.
The Peekaboo Shoulder: Down Low
A structured variation can be just as easily paired with denim cutoffs and sneakers as it can with a matching pant for an evening look.
L'oeil Studio Structured Top, $82, available at L'oeil.
The Naked Choker: Up High
Like that ring or bracelet you never take off, a choker can be one of those wear-every-day pieces of jewelry, as long as it's dainty.
Luv AJ Marquise Link Choker, $75, available at Luv AJ.
The Naked Choker: Down Low
It's so delicate, you'll forget you're even wearing it.
Ventrone Chronicles 24K Knit Choker, $25, available at Ventrone Chronicles.
The Wrap Top: Up High
There's a reason the wrap silhouette has become a total classic — skirts and dresses of this nature will never steer you wrong. But this year, it's all about the frilly wrap blouse that makes the ultimate "going out top" for summer activities.
Reformation Monika Top, $128, available at Reformation.
The Wrap Top: Down Low
This particular version can be worn multiple ways, so it's really like you're getting two tops for less than $100.
Saul Two Way Wrap Top, $98, available at Saul.
The Artsy Shirt Dress: Up High
Pieces that you can wear straight from work to drinks are always a must. A next-level shirt dress is both breathable and professional, but still an easy enough outfit when paired with a cool sandal or loafer.
Jacquemus La Tunique Noeuds Cotton Shirt Dress, $473 $331, available at MyTheresa.
The Artsy Shirt-Dress: Down Low
If you ever thought shirt dresses weren't conversation-starters, let this one prove you wrong.
Style Mafia Dante Dress, $85, available at Style Mafia.
The Disk Earrings: Up High
Hoops are having a major comeback, but you're ahead of the curve if you invest in this new dangler that feels even more contemporary.
Erin Considine Mini Disc Hoop, $265, available at Erin Considine.
The Disk Earrings: Down Low
As easy as wearing studs, but way cooler.
COS Disk Earrings, $19, available at COS.
The Track Pant: Up High
Pants aren't at the top of your list for summer (we don't blame you), but if there's one pair you shouldn't put in storage for summer, it's a lightweight track pant.
Chlo é Paneled Jersey Track Pants, $1,295, available at Net-A-Porter.
The Track Pant: Down Low
Believe it or not, these are totally interchangeable with your favorite pair of boyfriend jeans.
Topshop Side Stripe Wide Leg Trousers, $85, available at Topshop.
The Retro Sunglasses: Up High
Try a colorful pair of vintage-inspired shades for when you want to transport yourself to the '50s (just think of how they'll look with that high-waisted bathing suit).
Crap The Wild Gift, $58, available at Crap.
The Retro Sunglasses: Down Low
Picture the beach-day polaroids you'll take in these cat-eyes.
AJ Morgan Wild Wandee, $20 $10, available at AJ Morgan.
The Non-Basic Denim Shorts: Up High
If you're still holding onto your bleached and destroyed jorts from middle school, allow us to introduce you to a more polished and versatile alternative.
Frame Denim Shorts, $250, available at Frame Denim.
The Non-Basic Denim Shorts: Down Low
Think about how often you wear your jeans all fall and winter — you're sure to get your money's worth out of this longline pair for summer, even if they aren't dirt cheap.
Loup Denim Penny Shorts, $143, available at Loup.
The Pom-Pom Basket: Up High
Nothing like summertime to make you want to swap your leather handbag and canvas tote for a more seasonally appropriate number. Who doesn't love a basket bag — especially one with colorful pom-poms?
Eliza Gran Venice Tote, $98, available at Shopbop.
The Pom-Pom Basket: Down Low
You'd be surprised how much use you can get out of a bag like this, whether it's hanging off your bike handle, sitting with you beachside, or filling up with flowers at the farmers' market.
Folk Fortune Pom Pom Basket, $65, available at Garmentory.
The Romantic One-Piece: Up High
One-piece bathing suits get a bad rap for being underwhelming or un-sexy, but a super-flattering, all-over floral option flips the script.
Zimmermann Eden Picot, $315, available at Zimmermann.
The Romantic One-Piece: Down Low
Go for a plunge that shows just the right amount of skin while still feeling supportive. The cut and pattern make it perfect for sunbathing...and wearing later with a skirt or flowy pants.
ASOS Posy Floral Print Plunge Swimsuit, $43, available at ASOS.
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