Elevate Your Summer Outfits: Easy Ideas to Accessorize Your Look
When the temperatures rise, most of us reach for easy, breezy summer staples—think cotton dresses, linen pants, or a favorite tee. But simple doesn’t have to mean boring. The secret to pulling together a polished look without piling on extra layers? Accessories. A few simple summer accessories can instantly elevate even the most basic outfit and add that effortlessly chic touch we’re all after.
Summer accessories to elevate your outfit
Summer style is often simple, so don’t you don’t want to pile on too many accessories. A few unique pieces that express your individual style will add polish and personality. Don’t be afraid to go a little bolder, more playful, or colorful.
Cotton scarves & bandanas
A cotton scarf or bandana is a versatile summer accessory that is both functional and great way to add color and pattern to your outfit. I like to wear with a tee or tank to protect my neck from the sun. On the hottest days, you can dampen with cold water to help stay cool. Or wear as a headscarf, or tied to your favorite bag.
I’ve tied here with what I call a “quarter Windsor” knot. LMK if you’d like a video.
This cute cotton scarf is available in several prints and colors. (Many good ones for you Autumns!) I’m quite partial to this “Palm Springs” flamingo print!
Floral bandana – $15
I’ve purchased a few of these Madewell bandanas over the years, and wear them often during the warmer months. I love the blue-green color here! (Good for Summers, Blue Springs.)
Dog days bandana – $39
So darn cute and whimsical!
Cotton gingham scarf – $16.25
The bold colors in this gingham bandana keep it from veering too twee. Also in a bright blue-green. Both color options are cool, so good for Winters and some Summers.
Ocean-inspired jewelry
Want to channel a bit of Coastal Chic? Pearl and other ocean-inspired jewelry adds personality and polish to summer outfits.
Silver & pearl necklace – $80
It’s not always easy to find pearl jewelry with silver hardware. This beautifully simple and modern necklace can work with casual or more dressed up outfits.
Fish charm earrings – $44
A little fishy fun!
Sea charms necklace – $85
If you prefer your jewelry on the more delicate side, this one is so pretty!
Set of stretch bracelets – $68
Love these ocean-inspired hues! I’m a big fan of stretch bracelets to add an easy pop of color.
Sand Dollar earrings – $26.50
These are currently on sale (and in my cart!).
Baroque freshwater pearl necklace – $52
Pretty in pink! This baroque pearl and shell bead necklace is available in 3 colors.
Sandals & espadrilles
Footwear can be the “exclamation point” on an outfit, so don’t be afraid to make a statement with color, texture, or design details!
Wedge sandals – $177.99
These cute sandals with a low wedge are available in 4 colors, and well-reviewed for comfort!
Espadrille slingback flats – $99.50
Snazzy slingbacks! These have espadrille details with memory foam insoles. I love this green, but they’re also available in neutral canvas.
Birkenstock Arizona – $150
I love metallic footwear to add a bit of zing! Metallic finishes are also surprisingly neutral and versatile. These are also available in a copper metallic. And for a less chunky style, these are also nice.
Mary Jane espadrille flat – $168
These are also available in dark brown, but the red is really fun! They’re also well-reviewed for comfort.
Accessories can do a lot of the heavy lifting to elevate and add personality to your simple summer outfits. Sometimes the little things can have the biggest impact. So don’t forget to add that finishing touch! How do you like to accessorize your summer outfits?
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Hi Susan—I always love your scarf tying videos!
I have that red and black and gold scarf on order and would love to learn that quarter Windsor knot!
Knot tying please
Dear Susan! I would definitely like to know how do tie a quarter Windsor knot! Is that what you used for your sweater? I also love your tee shirt from Everlane. I got on the waitlist for that! Still hasn’t warmed up much in Petaluma.
Love those scarves and bracelets! Fun post!
Great inspiration, Susan–love those fishy earrings! And yes please, a tutorial on scarf tying would be lovely, thank you!
I’m a big fan of Madewell bandanas. I’d enjoy a tutorial on the knot you used. I’m also eyeing the pearl necklace!
Hi Susan
Those Mary Jane flats from Madewell have such a great look in red! I tend to tone down my accessories in the summer and you have found some great ones!
Hello, I’ve been really enjoying your posts and would love to see your tutorial for tying the quarter Windsor knot. Thank you!!
I’d love to see your video on the quarter Windsor knot. I have several scarves this size. Thanks for all the ideas!
Love that silver and pearl necklace. It is hard to find that combo. And I have a couple of those madewell scarves thanks to your suggestion. So fun.
Summer is full on here.
All my lovely summer clothes are coming out.
Greetje
I would love to see a video of how to tie a quarter Windsor knot in a scarf please! And for that matter, any ideas for tying a long rectangular scarf would also be great. Can I also ask – how do you store your scarves? My scarves are a mess, and they end up looking tired. Thanks!
I love longer/larger scarves, but cannot make the bandana style work for me, perhaps because my neck is giraffe proportioned! The sea green one you’re wearing is lovely on you.
I would also love to see the scarf tying video! I struggle a little with creative ways to wear the small scarves/bandanas.
Would love to see a video for the quarter Windsor knot!
Check back tomorrow! 😉