Open your closet and take a step back. If the questions “What do I wear?” or “Did I have that on last week?” are lingering in the back of your mind, we feel you. Yearning for a seasonal fashion refresh is understandable — even if our bank accounts say otherwise. Luckily, rebuilding a summer wardrobe from top to bottom isn’t the only solution to this style conundrum; sometimes you just need one or two new foundational pieces to pull a fresh look together. Allow us to point you in the direction of Uniqlo, a trusty reader-favorite retailer known for its affordably priced and high-quality basics. For instance, you can easily find under-$50 staples like breathable flare dresses, perfectly cut cotton T-shirts, and effortless linen shorts — all available in a wide range of sizes (from XXS to XXL) and kaleidoscopic colorways (black and off-white are, of course, a given). Below, browse five excellent Uniqlo basics we deem more than worth keeping in your style rotation as summer-outfit building blocks. (The shimmering accessories and fashionable handbags can wait.)
Linen-Blend Shirred Sleeveless Dress, $49.90
The A-line style of this linen-blend frock is chic yet laid-back. Also, the shirring emits a fit-and-flare silhouette if you were looking for something beyond Y2K-inspired mini dresses. It comes in four playful colors — off-white, orange, green, and navy — so you can bring a little color to your wardrobe this season.
Ribbed Henley Cropped Tank Top, $14.90
A cozy ribbed tank top is like a blank canvas. It opens the door to a world of creative style opportunities, and there is always room for more. Uniqlo’s Ribbed Henley Cropped Tank Top is designed to be your new treasured piece with its soft cotton fabric and variety of colors. After one wear, you won’t be able to help going back to collect the other summery options.
Terry Easy Shorts, $19.90
Introducing the shorts that’ll get you from the couch to the gym. There are no more excuses for ignoring your friends’ calls to come work out with them. These soft cotton-polyester bottoms are roomy enough to lounge at home in and then wear for a jog around the neighborhood. They’re a one-and-done piece without the need for an outfit change, and they have a sporty piping detail on the flat waistband. That way you don’t have to worry about them slipping down.
Rayon Short-Sleeve Blouse, $29.90
Imagine an effortless, relaxed-fit button-up that’s wrinkle-resistant. Sounds too good to be true, right? However, Uniqlo’s Rayon Short-Sleeve Blouse accomplishes that. The high-low top is easy to care for as it has a blend of rayon and polyester, so it’s smooth and has a snuggly feel. When it comes to appearance, it has a professional flair that works for the office and sophisticated weekend brunches.
Linen-Cotton Shorts, $29.90
Set aside your denim cutoffs for a different day, and look at these adorable paper-bag shorts, which offer a fashionable touch with the drawstring waistband. They don’t lose the styling capabilities your usual jean shorts deliver: The linen shorts cinch at the waist to give shape, while the wide-leg cut allows maximum air circulation. Breezy and easy.
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