Items That Can Be Layered Now and Then Worn During the Summer

Not only is a gauzy button-down softer and cozier than its cotton-poplin counterparts, but it’s also easy to layer underneath a thicker sweater. Once summer hits, you can treat it like a cover-up or a lightweight option for chilly flights or nights by a bonfire. ($44.90, Quince)

I have this sweater from J.Crew in multiple colors, and it’s one of my everyday favorites. It hits right at the waist, so you don’t have to worry about attempting to tuck in an overly bulky sweater. It’s a thin cashmere, so be sure to layer a T-shirt underneath for added warmth in the spring. I’ve also brought it with me on many summer trips for breezier nights out. ($148, J.Crew)

Skimm’rs actually put me on to this T-shirt from Abercrombie & Fitch as the basic they’re loving right now. It’s somewhere between a baby tee and a boxy cropped one, which makes it the best base for layering underneath sweatshirts, sweaters, and thicker coats. Pair it with denim shorts when it hits 75 degrees. ($19, Abercrombie & Fitch)

I like denim shirts for summer because they provide the same look and coverage as a denim jacket without the thickness. You can wear this one with black jeans and a coat for this transitional period, or wear it open over a tank top during warmer months. ($44.99, Old Navy)

Ann Taylor is another nostalgic brand that’s been revamped and we’re here for it. This floral midi skirt has a green base, which means you can wear it now without it feeling off-season. Add a black sweater tee, some suede heeled boots, and tights to complete the look. ($129, Ann Taylor)

We will forever love the added security and comfort that comes with wearing a skort. This one from Abercrombie can be worn with this vest top as a matching set, with sweaters and tights, or lighter blouses. It’s a closet staple that you don’t necessarily consider, but it can be worn in most settings. A bonus: It’s under $100. ($60, Abercrombie & Fitch)

Pointelle is majorly trending right now, and it’s one of the best materials to purchase when maximizing cost per wear. It’ll make any basic T-shirt feel dressed-up, and its gauzy texture will provide extra breathability when it’s hot outside. Grab this long-sleeve tee for March and April. ($88, Leset)

I reach for my sweater tees multiple times a week between October and May. Whether you’re sensitive to heat or want a sweater-looking base underneath a jacket that won’t bunch, they’re the way to go. This one from Banana Republic Factory has a tissue-like texture and comes in 11 colors. ($33, Banana Republic Factory)

This short-sleeved cardigan from Aerie has been all over my “For You” page. You can wear it completely buttoned-up or leave it open with a tank top underneath. It’s supposed to be a dupe for the now sold-out Daily Drills version. ($44.95, Aerie)

This cropped cardigan from Old Navy is one of my trusty closet staples all year long. It’s made of the brand’s SoSoft material, which feels nearly identical to cashmere. I pair it with jeans and boots during the spring and over sundresses during the summer. ($21.99, Old Navy)

One of Madewell’s most recent launches is their Airy Denim. All of these jeans have classic silhouettes, but they’re made of a lightweight denim you can wear in warm temperatures. These are thick enough for spring, and I love that they provide coverage on warmer days without uncomfortably clinging. ($148, Madewell)

These cropped flare pants have the feel of leggings, but look like standard trousers. If you hate hard pants and want a pair that can be worn year-round, these Donni ones are a must. They’re made of a soft, ribbed fabric with a slight drape. Layer them with cashmere socks and boots right now, and pair them with sandals later. ($184, Shopbop)

This sweatshirt is $90, but it isn’t just any run-of-the-mill hoodie. It’s made of Aritzia’s cloud-like Sweatfleece material with a hood that isn’t too big (which is ideal if you want to wear it underneath a coat). It’s the perfect sweatshirt to pair with jeans because it doesn’t have an athleisure look to it like other sweatshirts. ($90, Aritzia)

During this time of year, I go for tank tops layered underneath a cardigan. That way, I can have an extra layer in the morning while it’s still chilly out. This one has a boatneck and shirred detailing, which checks all of the boxes for an office-friendly basic. Once the day gets warmer, peel the sweater off and you’ll instantly be more comfortable. ($14.90, Uniqlo)

I just bought this emerald green button-down during my recent Madewell splurge and now I want it in every color. It’s made of a lightweight cotton poplin with a boxy, cropped fit. Some button-downs don’t look good with denim shorts, but this one is cut so well that I know it will. It comes in a couple of pinstriped versions, too. I’m planning to wear it with these denim shorts and woven sandals come summer. ($98, Madewell)

Ganni is famous for their graphic tees, and I actually love wearing them during the spring. They’ll always look good with black jeans and boots, and are great for days so hot you don’t know what to wear. I always wear mine with these linen pants. ($135, Shopbop)