Every summer I find myself reaching for the same pieces over and over again. A comfortable pair of shorts, a few easy tops, and suddenly getting dressed becomes so much simpler. Instead of buying complete outfits, I’ve started focusing on versatile staples that I can mix and match in different ways, and honestly, it’s one of the best shopping habits I’ve picked up.
Madewell has always been one of my favorite places to find those wardrobe essentials. Their collections have a relaxed feel that’s stylish without trying too hard, and most pieces work just as well for weekend brunch as they do for vacations or casual evenings out.
If you’re planning a summer wardrobe refresh, here are the tops and shorts I’d put at the top of my shopping list.
Start With A Classic Linen Button Up
A linen button up is probably the hardest working piece in my summer wardrobe.
Wear it tucked into shorts for lunch, throw it over a swimsuit at the beach, or leave it open over a tank top when the evenings get cooler. It’s one of those pieces that always looks effortless.
Madewell offers plenty of relaxed linen shirts in soft neutral shades that pair with almost everything.
Browse the latest collection at Madewell Women’s Tops.
A Simple Ribbed Tank Is Always Worth Buying
If I had to choose just one everyday top, it would probably be a fitted ribbed tank.
It’s comfortable, flattering, and incredibly easy to style. Pair it with denim shorts for a casual afternoon or dress it up with linen shorts, layered jewelry, and leather sandals.
Sometimes the simplest outfits end up looking the most polished.
Relaxed Graphic Tees Never Go Out Of Style
Every wardrobe needs at least one oversized graphic tee.
I love balancing the relaxed fit with tailored shorts and a structured handbag. The contrast makes the whole outfit feel intentional instead of looking like you just threw something on.
Finish the look with white sneakers and sunglasses, and you’ve got an outfit that’s perfect for coffee runs or weekend shopping.
Denim Shorts You’ll Wear Every Weekend
Madewell has built its reputation around denim, so it shouldn’t be surprising that their shorts are some of the best pieces in the collection.
A classic high waisted pair can be styled with almost every top you already own.
You can explore the latest styles in the Madewell Women’s Shorts Collection.
I usually stick with medium wash denim because it works with every color throughout the season.
Linen Shorts Feel Like Summer
When temperatures really start climbing, linen shorts quickly become my favorite option.
They’re lightweight, breathable, and look much more elevated than athletic shorts. Pair them with a matching linen shirt for a coordinated look or keep things simple with a fitted white tank.
Either way, you’ll stay comfortable while looking effortlessly put together.
Try Mixing Different Textures
One styling trick I’ve started using more often is mixing fabrics instead of matching everything perfectly.
For example
- Linen shirt with denim shorts
- Ribbed tank with linen shorts
- Cotton tee with tailored shorts
- Crochet top with white denim shorts
- Lightweight cardigan over a tank and shorts
The different textures make even basic outfits feel more interesting.
Don’t Forget The Accessories
Accessories are usually what take a simple outfit from nice to memorable.
Some of my summer favorites include
- Leather slide sandals
- White sneakers
- Woven tote bags
- Straw hats
- Layered gold necklaces
- Small hoop earrings
- Oversized sunglasses
You don’t need a lot. Just a few well chosen accessories can completely change the look of the same outfit.
My Favorite Mix And Match Formula
Whenever I’m packing for a trip, I follow a simple rule.
Three tops.
Three pairs of shorts.
One lightweight shirt.
One pair of sandals.
One pair of sneakers.
That small collection can easily create more than a dozen different outfits without making your suitcase feel overloaded.
It’s a trick that has saved me so much space while traveling.
Final Thoughts
Madewell makes it incredibly easy to build a summer wardrobe that feels relaxed, stylish, and practical. Instead of chasing every new trend, I prefer investing in timeless basics that can be mixed and matched in countless ways.
A few quality tops, a couple of great pairs of shorts, and some versatile accessories are really all you need to create outfits you’ll reach for all season long. If you’re shopping this summer, I’d definitely start with Madewell’s linen shirts, ribbed tanks, and signature denim shorts because they’re the kind of pieces that never go out of style.
