I Discovered 23 Elegant Basics Hiding in J.Crew's Summer Sale
Best of all? Every item is under $250.
I’ve been on a mission to elevate my summer wardrobe for quite some time now. Although there’s nothing wrong with my current closet (which is filled with laid-back white T-shirts, gauzy linen shorts, and barely-there tank tops), I’m looking to give my style a more tasteful upgrade by incorporating elegant basics. Specifically, I’m seeking polished pieces like breezy button-down shirts, summer dresses covered in nautical-inspired stripes, and sharply tailored vests.
Thankfully, J.Crew’s current sale has everything I could possibly need to bring my fashion dreams to fruition. While sorting through thousands of items on the brand’s site, I discovered a slew of sophisticated summer basics currently on a 50-percent-off sale. To make matters even better, I discovered that all sale styles are 60 percent off with the code “JULY.” So, if you're also aiming to refresh your summer wardrobe with a hint of refinement, you’ll want to keep scrolling.
I’ve selected 23 elegant basics from J.Crew and assembled them in the curated list ahead. If you see something you like, you’ll want to act quickly; this major sale ends Monday, July 8, at midnight, so you don’t want to waste another minute!
In my style playbook, a tailored vest can do no wrong. This white one from J.Crew is enhanced with a fitted shape that accentuates the waist for a slightly cinched-in look. Pair yours with matching trousers to curate a crisp, all-white outfit, and finish it off with your best loafers.
This isn’t an ordinary sheath dress: J.Crew’s Sophia dress is cut from a luxe tweed fabric and embellished with eye-catching gold buttons, giving the piece a sophistiated, Chanel-inspired look. This classy piece is ideal if you’re looking to enliven your collection of summer work outfits. Be prepared to receive endless compliments from your coworkers.
Although you likely already have a few white button-down shirts in your closet, it doesn't hurt to add one more—especially when that specific style is under $100. J.Crew’s best-selling Garçon top is made from a lightweight cotton-blend fabric that will keep you cool and comfortable all summer long while still lending a put-together effect.
My collection of summer shoes is filled with ballet flats, but none of them look like this pair from J.Crew. The dainty ankle straps, tiny block heels, and open backs make these sleek leather shoes stand out among the crowd.
If you’re searching for a simple slip dress that you can wear on repeat, take a look at this ‘90s-inspired number from J.Crew. Style it however you’d like, but I recommend wearing it with a pair of straightforward black sandals and a dark raffia woven bag to match.
Round out your lineup of summer skirts with this charming chiffon piece. The pleated fabric and sultry side slit give this white maxi skirt an eye-catching flair that makes it stand out from other long-line styles. This maxi is a part of the brand’s limited edition collection, so if you want it, grab it now because you likely won’t see it again.
Mark my words: Knee-length Bermuda shorts are making a comeback. J.Crew taps into the summer 2024 trend with its version made of drapey viscose fabric. Strategic design details like a high waistline and subtle pleats give the bottoms a refined, tailored feel. Pair yours with a simple white tank top and a coordinating blazer for an outfit you can wear into the office.
Have you heard the latest fashion news? Apparently, the billowing bubble skirt trend is on the rise this summer, and they’re selling out everywhere. With only a few sizes left at J.Crew, you’ll want to snag this khaki-colored, cloud-shaped skirt immediately.
These highly coveted J.Crew trousers are named the “Essential” pants for a reason. With a neutral hue and a streamlined silhouette, you can mix and match these bottoms with practically any top.
Looking to make a bit of a statement? Do so with this striped and shrunken button-up top featuring dramatic puff sleeves. Although this shirt has a cropped shape, it’s still long enough to tuck into a pair of high-waisted pants if that’s your preference.
It might be summertime, but that doesn’t mean temperatures don't drop every once in a while. For those days when the breeze feels too strong or your workplace feels like the Arctic with its nonstop air conditioning, slip into this striped lady jacket decorated with gold button details and patch pockets.
I've been eyeing these leather sandals for a while, and since they're currently on sale for $100, there's no better time to grab them. There's much to love about these strappy sandals, but I'm particularly drawn to the rounded heel wrapped in braided jute. I'm categorizing them as the best summer shoes you can invest in for the 2024 season.
Shorts often have a casual reputation, but these satin bottoms from J.Crew prove otherwise. Take these suit shorts to an even more elevated level by styling them with a designer belt crafted with gold hardware.
J.Crew’s Cameron pants have a trans-seasonal appeal that makes them an undeniable capsule wardrobe inclusion. During the warmer months, wear these slim trousers with a sleeveless blouse, and when the weather cools, swap your airy top for a knitted sweater.
I’m heading to the shore this summer, and I’ve been on the hunt for a flowy skirt that I can wear to beach outings, poolside lunches, and al fresco dinners. After stumbling upon J.Crew’s striped crepe skirt, I don’t think I have to look any further.
I recently asked my colleagues to share their favorite work dresses, and many of them claimed that fitted sheath dresses often anchor their office-friendly wardrobes. Follow suit with J.Crew’s Resume dress, designed with cap sleeves, a knee-skimming hemline, and a straight-line silhouette.
I’ve been using the same beach bag for years on end, and I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s time to give my tired old tote a rest. I’ll be replacing it with J.Crew’s Cadiz bag embellished with light-reflecting pearl sequins.
If you’d like to level-up up your collection of button-down shirts, opt for styles featuring Peter Pan collars instead of traditional point collars. J.Crew’s option earns extra design points with pretty pearl buttons along the front.
Despite the fact that I’m in the process of building my summer wardrobe, I’m also focused on investing in basics that will easily transition into fall. Thanks to its textured twill fabric, this rope-tie blazer is high on my must-buy list of transitional pieces.
For those moments when you’re planning to spend hours on your feet, you can count on these supportive sandals to deliver all-day comfort. You’ll appreciate the walkable block heel, sturdy buckle straps, and cushioned sole.
This button-up shirt dress was crafted with versatility in mind. Tie it at the waist for a cinched look or remove the detachable belt if you’re in the mood for a roomier fit.
I’m a firm believer that everyone needs at least one pair of loafers—simply because they’re practical and easy to style. This pair showcases a summary twist with a stitched canvas exterior that will compliment a range of warm-weather outfits.
With contrasting piping details and fabric-covered buttons, J.Crew’s Sophia dress puts an upscale spin on the classic little black dress. Finish off your look with glossy kitten heels for a ladylike feel.
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Lauren is the Fashion Editor at Marie Claire, where she writes trend reports, shopping pieces, and celebrity news stories. Prior to Marie Claire, Lauren worked for Harper’s Bazaar and ELLE as a freelance editor with a specific focus on seasonal styles and coveted products. She also worked for Town & Country, where she developed a robust portfolio of fashion roundups and designer profiles.
Lauren graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree in communications and a minor in journalism. While attending Penn, Lauren contributed to the university's fashion magazine, The Walk, while also interning for Philadelphia Style Magazine and EveryStylishGirl.
When she’s not exploring the world of fashion, you can find Lauren sharpening her skills as DJ, discovering new restaurants in New York City (she’s a foodie), and spending quality time with friends and family. Follow her along at @laurenktappan.
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