Welcome to our World's Best Shoppers series, a monthly feature in which we tap into the shopping leaders of the fashion world—the best fashion directors, buyers, and stylists—for sartorial insight on what to buy each season.
Spring is only just beginning yet the slight rise in temps already has me dreaming of the brighter, hopeful summer season ahead. In the sartorial department, summer brings with it plenty of light, cool, and fresh pieces to get excited about. So what exactly should we be adding to our wardrobes this warm-weather season?
I tapped into a handful of savvy fashion experts to share the must-have pieces they'll be buying, wearing, and Instagramming this summer 2021. From bright dresses to spark joy and of-the-moment sandals to wear with them, take a peek below as the world's best shoppers share their must-have picks for the season ahead.
"This summer will be all about cropped tops—I like how charming this one is and so versatile at the same time. Jacquemus is one of my favorite brands and I currently have three of the same styles in my shopping bag.”
Mytheresa
Midikleid Aus Nylon
"I am obsessed with the Nylon Prada collection and this dress is one of the many items that I love. It’s the perfect version of a timeless, modern yet sexy party dress. It's also perfect to wear for just strolling in the sun”
Bottega Veneta
Stretch Leather-Trimmed Pumps
"I am loving a good green moment and this dream update of a cool and sexy sandal by Bottega Veneta will brighten up your summer days”
"This season is all about items that will lift your mood and what better way to do so than by adding a pop of color to your wardrobe. This neon dress is sure to brighten anyone’s day, with the drawstring ruching details and the ruffled high-low hem, it’s the perfect fit for outdoor dining dates all summer long."
Norma Kamali
Johnny D Bra
Norma Kamali
Diaper Bottoms
"I am gushing over retro swimwear for summer and the reemergence of high-waisted bottoms. I will be soaking up the sun in this beautiful two-piece set (both comfortable and flattering)—pairing it with high-waisted denim cutoff shorts for that perfect casual beach day look."
One Teaspoon
Venice Streetwalkers High Waist 80s Shorts
"I absolutely love these high-rise denim shorts with the pleated front and rolled cuff. Paired with my favorite tee and casual sandals, this is a great no-fuss yet elevated look for a summer beach day."
Jana Hofheimer, Buyer, Advanced Designer and Denim, Moda Operandi
Jacquemus
Capri Oversized Twisted Linen Cropped Shirt
"I consider crop tops wardrobe essentials, especially in the summertime. They are quite versatile, effortlessly pairing well with high-waisted jeans or skirts, of which I have many. This one from Jacquemus is a great option from his iconic Spring '21 runway show."
Khaite
Hilary Polka-Dot Silk Shorts
"Cate Holstein of Khaite can do no wrong, in my opinion. Leave it to her to create the most covetable and summer-appropriate bloomer-style shorts. I envision wearing these with a bikini top or an easy tee (if not the matching bra top!) at the beach or poolside."
Proenza Schouler
Drawstring Jersey Maxi Dress
"Will the weddings from 2020 that have been rescheduled to summer 2021 go forward? Unclear... but if they do, I will surely be wearing this standout Proenza jersey dress to one of them."
"This dress by Malene Birger is a flattering shape and I love this tan color paired with gold jewelry and brown sandals for an effortless summer look.”
Khaite
Felicia Smocked Midi Dress
"This little black cotton twill dress by Khaite will be a go-to this summer. I love the idea of adding a gold link bracelet and a flat sandal in a pop color for instant glam."
Libby Page, Senior Market Editor, NET-A-PORTER
Altuzarra
Watermill Large Leather-Trimmed Raffia Tote
"I have never been a beach bag girl, but I love the minimalistic nature of this Altuzarra tote. The black leather trim brings a cleaner, more polished vibe, making it perfect for not just the beach, but the office too."
Tove
Ceres Gathered Organic Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress
"TOVE is one of my favorite brands at the moment. I love their attention to detail and approach to dressing the modern woman. The white dress for me is a must-have summer staple. The ruching makes it especially perfect for dressing up or down."
Kate Bellman, Managing Editor, Nordstrom
(Image credit: Kate Bellman)
Sika
Billie Mix Print Fit
Flare Dress
"Just looking at this dress makes me happy, not to mention the pure joy I’ll feel wearing it! I love the story of this brand too—designed in London and sustainably made in Ghana, bringing a profound impact to their local community."
Saint Laurent
Medium Kaia Raffia Crossbody Bag
"Nothing says summer like a straw handbag. This version is a great new take on the beach tote with an easy crossbody shape, bringing a novel twist to texture and functionality."
Schutz
Annye Slide Sandal
"I need my summer sandals to be comfortable and versatile and look equally great with a long romantic dress as they do a pair of jeans. These Schutz sandals will be my go-to for adding some sparkle to my every day."
Katie Murphy, VP of Client Services, 11 Honoré
(Image credit: Katie Murphy)
Mara Hoffman
Red Agnella Dress
"I'm loving this bright crimson dress from Mara Hoffman. The feminine neckline and puff sleeve will look great paired with neutral accessories to offset the vibrant red."
11 Honoré
11 Honoré Rose Hailey Half Zip
Shop the matching Leah Crop Sweatpant ($108). "This baby pink set from 11H Collection is the softest. I will wear the cropped pants with a white tee and the zip top with white jeans. A light and easy 2-in-1 summer look."
Tanya Taylor
Audrey Dress
"This mini is fun and flirty. The deep navy floral with pops of neon is just a vibe that we all need right now. Super cute styled with sneakers."
Judith Jones is the associate shopping director at Who What Wear and has worked in fashion for over a decade. She specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.