Although the first official day of summer isn’t for another several weeks, the weather surely begs to differ. Just this past weekend, I stepped outside for a brisk walk while wearing heavy black leggings and an oversized hoodie, fully expecting to encounter a gentle springtime breeze. Instead, I was met with sweat-inducing humidity.
I'm no meteorologist, but I'm guessing that was the first of many boiling days to come. So, I’ve decided that it’s officially time to prepare my closet for summer. And as if J.Crew magically read my mind, the brand just released a major sale on a slew of warm-weather must-haves that will round out any summer wardrobe. From now until Monday, May 6, you can score an extra 30 percent off all sale items— from breezy button-downs that you can wear for a day in the office to linen pants that you can slip over a trendy bikini on your way to the beach.
With hundreds of items to choose from, I've curated 20 of the best summer essentials to help you beat the heat in style.
There’s nothing wrong with a plain white tank top, but why not opt for a slightly more sophisticated white vest with a refined twist instead? This one from J.Crew is decorated with a crisp scoop neckline and covered buttons down the center. Style it with the brand’s coordinating Soleil pants to look extra put together.
I’ve been searching for the perfect summer dress, and I think I just found my match. J.Crew's beach dress meets all my standards—it's lightweight, breathable, and versatile. I also love how this piece is adorned with subtle light blue stripes and dainty cross-back straps. I can easily see myself wearing this dress to a picnic in the park or a poolside lunch.
Are you heading to the shore this summer? Don’t forget to pack a pair of gauzy beach pants to wear over your bathing suit. These bottoms are made with a crinkled texture for a relaxed feel and crafted with an elastic waistband for a cozy fit.
If your wardrobe of summer work outfits needs a bit of a refresh, look no further than this sharp linen vest to get the job done. Team this top with tailored trousers and kitten heels for an easy, office-friendly look, and get ready to receive endless compliments from coworkers.
Upgrade your woven bag collection with J.Crew’s straw clutch, which features a geometric shape, a removable crossbody chain, and a standout leather clasp. This bag has ample space for essentials, like your phone, keys, wallet, and sunscreen.
J.Crew’s best-selling Capitaine shirtdress might just be your new favorite summer staple. Not only is it designed with a spacious silhouette, but it’s also cut from 100% linen, which makes it super breathable. We guarantee you'll be wearing it on repeat—don’t say we didn’t warn you.
J.Crew’s twill trousers are named the “Essential Pant” for a reason. Designed in a subdued colorway and a straightforward shape, these bottoms can be styled with practically any top, like a sophisticated blouse for a day in the office or a sultry corset top for a night out.
Although countless sizzling days lie ahead, you’ll likely experience chilly weather here and there. Prepare yourself with an extra layer—we’d recommend this cropped crewneck cardigan sweater, which boasts trendy butter-yellow undertones.
Summer dressing can be a drag, especially given the overbearing heat, so why not make your life a bit easier by infusing your wardrobe with simple staples? Slip into this lightweight pleated skirt, a classic white T-shirt, and a pair of strappy sandals for a hassle-free summer look.
You don't have to sail on the ocean to wear nautical-inspired clothing. This blue-and-white striped shirt can serve many functions during balmy summer days—wear it as an easygoing daytime top or a swimsuit cover-up.
Take your sandal game up a notch with a pair of braided espadrille slides. The supple leather straps add a nice touch that makes these shoes ideal for elevated summertime occasions, like a garden party or a celebratory dinner.
J.Crew’s denim shorts are designed with an intentional high waistline, a lengthy inseam, and a roomy structure for all-day wearability.
At first glance, this top looks like a button-down, but take a closer look, and you’ll notice that it’s actually a popover shirt (meaning there’s no fastening involved). Simply pull this low-effort top over your head, throw on a pair of linen pants, and slide into some sandals. Just like that, you’ve got yourself an easy summer outfit.
If you already have a few casual beach cover-ups or caftans, opt for a more sophisticated seaside look with J.Crew's black side-tie skirt. Complete this chic outfit with the brand's matching bikini.
As a dedicated capsule wardrobe builder, I live by the rule that you can never have too many linen tops for summer (hence why I’ve included several in this roundup). I’ve added J.Crew’s Capitaine shirt because reviewers can’t stop raving about how it fits perfectly and its incredibly soft hand-feel.
I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again—a summer wardrobe isn’t complete without a woven bag. Carry this luxe leather purse by the handle, or wear it over your shoulder with the removable crossbody strap.
The scoop neckline and hip-grazing cut of this' 90s-inspired swimsuit flaunt an undeniably timeless appeal. For that very reason, you'll pull this perennial one-piece out of your closet every time summer rolls around.
You simply can't deny the prevailing power of black flip-flops. The summer staple can easily transition through any outfit. J.Crew's version is leather for a more substantial feel.
Dressing up for a night out just got a whole lot easier with this V-neck slip dress. Thanks to its silky texture and flattering shape, this dress has posh written all over it. It doesn’t need much styling, but feel free to amp up the opulence with gold jewelry and an elegant handbag.
If you’re like me and can’t seem to get enough of striped patterns during the summer months, add J.Crew’s boatneck top to your shopping cart. Pair this sailor-inspired piece with white linen shorts and boat shoes to match the maritime aesthetic.
