It's a fun thought that a new season means a whole new wardrobe, but we’ll let you in on a little secret: That’s not even how fashion editors approach the calendar's sartorial shift. It’s not that all-new everything doesn’t have its appeal, but if we’re talking practicality (and closet space), it’s more often just a handful of carefully selected items that make all the difference in our ensembles from spring to summer.
In proving that a little bit goes a long way, we asked our own R29 fashion experts to pinpoint which pieces from Neiman Marcus they're using to upgrade their warm-weather, sunny-day, living-alfresco looks. And — spoiler alert — they confirmed that impactful accessories, cool silhouettes, and a lazy-girl-approved jumpsuit are key. Consider the polished, quirky, and easy-to-toss-on picks ahead tools for a complete closet overhaul...with minimal overhauling work required.
The Ballet Flat
"A ballet flat is something every girl should have in her closet. They're practical and can be paired with almost any outfit. The metal bow and slightly unique shape of this one makes it a standout." —Emily Holland, Styling Director
Balenciaga, $545.00, available at Neiman Marcus
The White Jean
"For me, white jeans usually connote the idea of summering on the shore and getting oysters with Biff — a.k.a. things I have never done in my life. But these white jeans have a sense of humor: The cropped kick flare and red embroidery are fun without getting too boho-hippie, and they dress up my typical laid-back summer uniform of a white T-shirt and white jeans." —Connie Wang, Fashion Features Director
AG, $335.00, available at Neiman Marcus
The One-Piece Suit
"This Marysia suit is the 2.0 version of the one-piece you learned to backstroke in. The silhouette stands out as a refreshing option in a sea of string bikinis, and the cutout detail solidifies it as the sexy cousin of your camp counselor's Speedo. Removable straps add a practical element and versatility that allow you to sun AND surf." —Bethie Girmai, Associate Stylist
Marysia, $334.00, available at Neiman Marcus
The Everyday Sunglasses
"During the summer, I always keep a pair of sunglasses in my handbag — regardless of where I'm going or whether it's even sunny. (It's kind of my superstitious way of wishing for good weather.) I've stuck with oversized plastic frames for much of my life, so I think it's time for a change. These frames are a very cool step in the right direction: Together, the horn pattern, reflective shades, and round frame certainly break up the monotony of my all-black sunglasses collection." —Ana Colon, Fashion News Writer
Illesteva, $290.00, available at Neiman Marcus
The Romper
"Love it or hate it, I'm a romper devotee all. the. way. Why, you ask? Well, it may have something to do with the fact that I'm absurdly lazy in the morning — any outfit that requires only one item of clothing is okay in my book. The thing is, so many iterations can be way too short for work. That's why I'm going for an equally as low-maintenance jumpsuit that's sleek, comfy, AND designed by two members of the Kardashian-Jenner family. Yeses all around." —Erin Cunningham, Senior Fashion Editor
Kendall & Kylie, $445.00, available at Neiman Marcus
The Statement Earring
"I've been on a major statement-earring kick because I've seen just how easily a great pair can complete even the simplest outfit. The days of minimal and barely there jewelry are long over, at least for me, so I'll be breaking out my most festive and colorful dangling earrings for every occasion this summer. Whether rocking just one with a tee and shorts for daytime or wearing both with a dress for night, they're my go-to accessory for the warm weather ahead." —Alyssa Coscarelli, Fashion Market Writer
Oscar de la Renta, $395.00, available at Neiman Marcus
The White Lacy Top
"I completely lose it over white eyelet and lace, but many of my detail-packed pieces are vintage and, thus, too boxy or heavy. This tank is possibly the sexiest piece I've seen constructed from the 'grandma's hand-hewn doily' texture. The plunging, strappy back staves off the overgrown-Communion-dress or prissy-pillowcase vibes." —Alexandra Ilyashov, Senior Fashion News Editor
Self Portrait, $410.00, available at Neiman Marcus
The Everyday-Life Messenger Bag
"Living the urban life calls for a bag big enough to carry around everything you need for being out of the house all day, including a pair of heels for those after-work drinks with friends. This fun printed Proenza bag marries function and form." —Emily Holland, Styling Director
Proenza Schouler, $1350.00, available at Neiman Marcus
The Strappy Sandal
"Like many New Yorkers, I'm guilty of wearing about as much color as Morticia Addams. Since my preferred garb is usually in 50 shades of gray, I like to live a little with my accessories. The multicolored raffia on these Manolo sandals is the perfect compromise: business in the sole, party in the straps." —Bethie Girmai, Associate Stylist
Manolo Blahnik, $795.00, available at Neiman Marcus
The Day-To-Night Clutch
"Come summer, all that's on my mind is how to make the most out of the long days. This usually involves post-work drinks and as many brunches as I can cram into each weekend. I love to switch out my large carryall for a more portable bag when I'm running around to meet up with friends. This compact clutch fits all my essentials while being a great transitional purse from happy hour to a last-minute date." —Ray Lowe, Fashion Market Writer
Rebecca Minkoff, $225.00, available at Neiman MarcusLike what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
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