Now that summer is officially here, it’s time to swap full-length denim for jean shorts. This pair from Levi’s is 100% cotton, so it holds its shape and actually gets better with wear. The mid-length, mid-rise fit is easy and flattering, with just the right amount of slouch. I’ll be wearing this short nonstop this summer with everything from kitten heels to sneakers. Oh, and it’s nearly 60% off right now.
No matter the season, every capsule wardrobe should start with a basic white t-shirt. I regularly wear mine on its own with denim or linen bottoms or layered with other basics like cardigans, sweaters, and button-downs. I love this one from Gap made from primarily cotton (and a little modal for stretch), which is the best quality in terms of weight, opacity, and fit. Beyond its budget-friendly price point, I love the relaxed, body-skimming silhouette.
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This sleeveless, ankle-length dress is 30% off and under $30 for Prime Day. It’s mostly cotton with a touch of elastane for stretch, so it’s soft and skims the body just right. I love how clean and polished the silhouette feels. It’s one of those pieces you can throw on for daytime with sandals or dress up with heels and accessories for nighttime.
A good ballet flat is a non-negotiable—and at 30% off, this pair should already be in your cart! It goes from office to errands to date night without missing a beat. This pair from Cushionaire is especially comfy thanks to a memory foam footbed that feels broken-in right away. The Mary Jane strap and crochet texture are super cute, while the neutral shades keep it super wearable.
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I typically opt for shorts during the summer, but when the occasion calls, you always need a reliable pair of full-length jeans at the ready. This pair from Gap is incredibly versatile with a straight-leg silhouette and not-too-loose, not-too-tight fit. It’s the perfect pair of denim to throw on with a kitten heel and flowy tank for dinner and drinks with the girls.
If jeans aren’t your vibe for summertime, opt for a pair of cotton pants like this option from Lioness. At nearly 80% off and under $25, you seriously want to snag them while you still can. It’s made from 100% cotton, so you can bet it’s breathable, comfortable, and built to last.
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Everyone needs a good thong sandal in their summer rotation, and I’m personally stoked to see this cute, comfy pair from KuaiLu marked down by nearly half. It’s Amazon’s number-one best-selling flip-flop for its memory foam, arch-support footbed, and stylish fabric laces. Want a more basic pair? Everyone’s favorite Havianas are over half off right now.
What’s easier than a matching set? Trick question. A matching set like this simple linen combo from Anrabess is the perfect capsule wardrobe essential because it’s perfect for days when you don’t know what to wear, but the top and bottom can also be styled with other items in your closet—talk about wardrobe mileage. And at under $50 for two pieces, it’s an easy “add to cart.”
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I live in midi skirts once summer rolls around—they’re easy, versatile, and somehow always look put-together. This one is a linen-blend, so it stays breathable without wrinkling too much, and the elastic waistband keeps the fit comfy. The side slit adds a little movement, and it’s just as good with a tank and sandals for daytime as it is with a blouse and kitten heels for dinner.
In summer, I put away heavy knits and reach for lighter layers like this under-$30 sweater vest. It’s mostly cotton, so it’s soft and breathable, with a bit of polyester for durability. The ribbed collar, rolled hems, and center seam keep it polished but still lowkey—aka, you can wear this top on repeat without anybody noticing. Wear it solo with baggy denim shorts and sneakers or layer it over a plain white tee with a midi skirt and sandals.
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Denim shorts are a wardrobe staple, sure, but on days you want something a little softer and flowier, a satin short like this one from Free People is everything. I love the lace trim on this pair, which gives it a stylish, feminine touch. This short would look so cute layered under a longline sweater (like the one from Seiciviy) and nude ballet flats.

Shannen Zitz is the Associate Style & Reviews Editor at Women's Health, where she covers all-things sneakers and activewear. Previously, she was an assistant editor at Prevention. Shannen graduated from the State University of New York at Cortland with a bachelor's degree in English. If she’s not reading or writing, you can probably find her frequenting the skincare and makeup forums on Reddit or hogging the squat rack at the gym.
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