The Top 20: Summer Essentials

The Steele Maiden: Top 20 Summer Essentials
I’m interrupting all regularly scheduled blog posts this week to bring you something far more important: your Summer survival guide.  Just in time for Memorial Day – 20 essential items to get you through the Summer looking stylish…

While I admit to being sometimes lured into the idea that I want a new wardrobe every time the season changes, the truth is for the most part I try and buy versatile basics that can be mixed and matched to suit almost any occasion.  With the exception of a couple of pieces, everything shown here already existed in my closet (and I’m guessing similar things may already be in yours as well).  But maybe you’re wondering what’s missing from your wardrobe, or want a seasonal update, and in that case hopefully this list will help fill in any gaps.  And even more exciting?  For the rest of the week I’ll be showing you four different outfits perfect for Memorial Day weekend events (or any other summer situation you’ll stumble upon in the coming months) – using just my 20 essentials.  Super bonus? Everything shown can fit easily into that tote bag, meaning if you’re going away for the long weekend – I just made your life a whole lot easier.  You can thank me later.
1. Bright Blouse (Tulle – similar here)
2. Patterned Bag (Vintage – cute option here)
3. Striped T-Shirt (Forever 21)
4. Cut-off Jean Shorts (Old – similar here)
5. White Lace Dress (Free People)
6. Skinny Gold Hoop Earrings (Old – similar here)
7. Patterned Silk Dress (Madewell – sold out, but I love this one too)
8. Sunglasses (Old – I’ve got my eye on these next)
9. Denim Jacket (Old – similar here)
10. Solid Silk Blouse (Madewell)
11. High waisted Shorts – or Skirt (Urban Outfitters – similar here)
12. Bathing Suit (Victoria’s Secret)
14. Statement Bracelet (Random – this one’s cool too) 
15. Open Toe Wedges (Restricted at ShopRuche)
16. Metallic Clutch (H&M – similar here)
18. Canvas Sneakers (Target)
19. Thin Leather Belt (J.Crew Factory)
20. Strappy Sandals (Shoemint, now sold out – these are a great option too)