Summer’s almost here, and your wardrobe’s in need of warm-weather clothes for weekends, vacations and everyday wear. You want pieces that are versatile and stylish, but don’t cost much (read: won’t make you cry if left in a hotel room or otherwise misplaced). Luckily, top brands are churning out highly affordable basics that are reasonably well made and, in many cases, on trend. Some of these staples have garnered such a reputation that fashion editors stock up on them regularly. So make sure to grab some of these seasonal must-haves, before they fly off store shelves.
1. Soffe Cotton Shorts, $8 or 3/$18: Designed for cheerleaders but beloved by athletic types everywhere, these comfy shorts are, yes, quite short—but who isn’t willing to show off a little leg in the summertime? Available in both high and regular rise, these basics come in a huge range of colors. Lightweight and super stretchy, they’re great for running, weight training and even sleeping. Best of all, they’re a steal at $8 a pair—$6 if you buy three. And with all these gorge hues to pick from, who wouldn’t want three?
2. Old Navy Flip-Flops, starting at 2 for $5: Seriously, how can you beat two pairs of this summer essential for five bucks? You can’t. Even if you lose one pair of these fun flip-flops at the pool and leave another at the gym, you won’t feel bad going back to Old Navy to stock up on more. These babies come in so many colors and prints, the only difficulty you’ll have will be deciding which ones to buy.
3. UNIQLO Leggings, $13: These super-soft, completely affordable leggings are available in a rainbow of solid colors and prints. They’re great to wear for running errands, exercising, hanging out or even sleeping. Or top them with your favorite tunic or asymmetrical tank for a fun going-out look. These versatile bottoms are available in kids and men’s sizes too, so the whole family should stock up.
4. H&M Lingerie, $5 to $9. Believe us when we say that some of H&M’s underthings are so cute and sexy and well made enough to pass for something you’d find in a department store or fancy lingerie shop. They may not hold up for years, but they’ll give you a fashionably good run for your money, with cute details like scalloped edges, lace trims and updated animal prints. The trendiest of the bras come in at under $18, but you’ll get the most value with pre-packaged, solid-colored cotton separates, such as a two-pack of bandeaus for $10, a pair of push-up bras for $18, and a trio of cotton boy shorts for $10.
5. Forever 21 Stretch-Knit Tank, $3.80. Originally we were going to tell you about this junior chain’s classic spaghetti-strap cami that costs only $1.90. But we were afraid your heart might start beating too fast. So we went with the “more expensive” option: the $3.80 stretch-knit tank, which has a wider waistband (which we prefer for hiding those pesky bra straps) and a hint of spandex for comfort and a flattering fit. This essential makes a great top for jeans, shorts, skirts or loungewear. And it’s available in 26 colors, so you can have one for (almost) every day of the month.
6. Mossimo Jeans at Target, $29. Products in this Target brand have the look and feel of more expensive jeans. A few seasons ago, fashion bloggers everywhere went gaga over the Mossimo Boyfriend Skinny Jean, giving high-end denim labels a run for their money. Available in skinny, straight-leg, bootcut and wide-cut versions, these fashion staples will take you around town in style and comfort, without emptying your wallet.
7. American Apparel Cotton Spandex Bodysuit, $26: Available in several colors each season, and often on sale for less than $15, American Apparel’s basic bodysuit is stretchy, versatile and affordable. It’s perfect for layering under sheer tops and bottoms, cardigan sweaters or even a tulle skirt. And yes, you can throw on your leg warmers and dance in it. If you are a dancer. This staple also comes in halter, strapless and longer-sleeve versions, so you can experiment with different looks to suit your mood.
8. Hanes Nano-T V-neck T-shirt, $10: Hanes has been rocking the basic T for decades, but unlike some of the brand’s boxier cuts, this soft, fitted variety is perfect for showing off your feminine silhouette. It’s also super soft to the touch, with a tag-free label, and available in 25 colors. Wear it to the gym, to the grocery store, under a cardigan or jacket for work—or even to bed, because you definitely won’t lose sleep over the price tag.
9. Urban Outfitters Crew Socks, 3 for $20. Soft and durable, and often available in a wide range of patterns and seasonal prints, these basics cover your tootsies in style and comfort on the cheap. What else can we say, except we can’t wait for December, because last year’s reindeer designs were adorable.
10. Champion Sports Bra at Target, $17: The C9 model is a great basic workout bra great for both everyday and travel fitness. It’s not as supportive as some of the high-end running bras you might find at sporting goods stores, but it’s more than fine for yoga, walking, light jogging or cross training, offering enough support to get you through a relatively high-impact sweat. Plus it’s cheap enough and light enough to take with you on vacation, without worrying about leaving it behind.
