We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's.
1. High-waisted rolled denim shorts for some major throwback vibes that'll take you from a hike to a beach vacation and everything in between. You might end up living in these all summer long.
Promising review: "These are the best summer shorts. I wish I had these in multiple colors. The fit is spot-on. I purchased the blue denim and the black and both are great colors, but I want more colors. I also love the elastic waistline." —doub515
Get it from Amazon for $22.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and six colors).
2. An open-back number that was basically made for carefree frolicking with tons of precious details. It has a ruffled hem, a smocked bodice, an adjustable waist tie, *and* an optional halter tie.
Promising review: "My new favorite summer dress! I decided on this dress last minute right before vacation. Perfect!!! I got sooo many compliments. It fits amazingly. The drawstrings allow you to adjust it to get your perfect fit. It does have straps to go around the neck which was a good surprise. You can wear it with or without it. The fabric is soft, not itchy at all, and is not see-through. I probably get the green dress next." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $36.99 (available in sizes S–XL and in 25 colors).
3. A stunning satin midi skirt so you can shine as bright as the sun and make sure everyone knows that summer is your fave season ☀️.
4. A scalloped hem dress with a whole lotta range. It's perfect for fancy cocktail parties, impromptu backyard BBQs, and week-long cruises.
Promising review: "I ordered the size I normally wear and it fits great! Got it for vacation and ended up using it as a swimsuit cover up as well; the elastic in the waist and shoulders makes it easy to get on and off." —Kira T.
Get it from Amazon for $25.99+ (available in sizes XL–4X and 18 colors).
5. High-waisted shorts because 'tis the season to let your legs breathe that crisp, fresh air! These have built-in briefs, a relaxed bottom, and are made with water-resistant fabric to keep you dry.
Promising review: "I usually buy all of my authentic wear from Lululemon, but I saw these shorts on TikTok and had to try them on! I bought a bright green pair and the gray. I will ABSOLUTELY be buying these in every color! They are so comfortable and are the perfect length/fit. Highly recommend purchasing these. They are a great price as well. :)" —Callieend
Get them from Free People for $30 (available in sizes XS–XL and in 25 colors).
6. Or quick-dry running shorts when you plan to soak up as much of the warm weather as humanly possible. They have an underwear liner, elastic waistband, and airy material that dries quickly!
My colleague Emma Lord owns these and said: "I recently bought these shorts because I'm in love with the similar ones you can get at Old Navy, but they sell out so fast. Turns out I love these even more! I love the huge range of colors you can buy these in (at other places they often sell out too quickly to get to pick!), love that the high-waistedness of them meets about where my running crop top ends so I don't have to get bonkers with sunscreen, and love love loooooove the side pocket for my keys or face mask. I only have them in purple so far, but I'm excited to try other colors!"
Promising review: "These shorts are PERFECT for running! They stayed in place the whole time, they are the perfect lightweight, sweat-resistant material, and a good length! Definitely recommend! Waist is a bit snug and otherwise true to size!" —Katie Micc
Get it from Amazon for $27.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 36 colors).
7. A darling tulle skirt you'll want to have on hand for formal events but it can just as easily be worn on a random night out on the town. It's poofy, it's glamorous, and you'll feel like Carrie Bradshaw strutting around NYC in it!
Promising review: "I read tons of reviews for this skirt and I felt confident in the sizing that I chose. It fits wonderfully as a high-waisted skirt. It is very full and it has a slip attached to it. I ordered this skirt in white. It is so pretty. I know I will receive compliments on it. I plan to order another. I definitely give this skirt two thumbs up. And you really can't beat the price!" —tanisha
Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in sizes XS–5X and 45 colors).
8. A classic cold-shoulder swing dress that'll become your go-to wardrobe staple for casual summer days when the vibe is all about being cute and comfy.
Promising review: "This is the perfect summer dress. Loose fitting, cool and beautiful. I loved it so much, I bought another one in a different pattern. And I plan on ordering a couple more!" —Vicki Wilson
Get it from Amazon for $31.85 (available in sizes XL–5X and 26 colors/patterns).
9. A beautiful linen skirt for a breezy option you'll come back to over and over again. It pairs well with a plain white tee and you won't have to worry about being drenched when you're outside.
Magic Linen is a family-owned small biz based in Lithuania that, in addition to clothing, makes dreamy linens for the kitchen, bath, and home.
Get it from Magic Linen for $86 (available in sizes XS–XXL and three colors).
10. A pleated tennis skirt if you've been searching for a versatile garment that can be worn on and off the court. Style it with a tank top or graphic tee and be on your way! It also has built-in shorts for extra coverage.
Promising review: "This skirt was so comfortable and cute. I got lots of compliments on the bright purple hue. I love that it has shorts attached but aren't tight fitting on the body. If you are looking for a cute pleated skirt this is the one!" —Kristian Scott
Get it from Amazon for $20.99+ (available in sizes 0–12 and in 43 colors and patterns).
And here's a similar plus size version (L–4X) for $26.99+.
11. A puff-sleeve, ruched-bust dress so you can feel like a dreamy forest fairy while expressing your undying love for vintage looks. Bonus: the sleeves can be styled on OR off the shoulder.
Promising review: "So happy with my purchase! I received many compliments when wearing this dress and it makes sense, because it’s lovely! It’s super comfortable, too. It’s beautiful to wear out but also comfortable enough to wear around the house. It’s just as beautiful on the shoulder, though I prefer it off, but the great thing is that it stays put whichever way you choose to wear it. I highly recommend it!" —Melanie Grace
Get it from Amazon for $35.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and seven colors/prints).
12. A pair of neon color block bike shorts when you want to make a bold fashion statement and stand out from the crowd. You'll also be one of the few people who's not dealing with a chafing catastrophe this summer, so it's a win-win.
Shop Angelica Curtis is an LA-based, woman-owned Etsy shop established in 2014 that specializes in fashion-forward, comfortable apparel.
Promising review: "The shorts are so amazing and they make me feel like workout Barbie. The stitching is fantastic and the seller totally helped me out. She answered all my questions and even sent a pic of her in her pair of the shorts. They are so cute and comfy. They wick sweat really well and I stayed cool in them in the heat of Phoenix!" —Hannah Sampson
Get it from Shop Angelica Curtis on Etsy for $25 (available in sizes S–2XL and two color combos).
13. Or these printed bike shorts to free your legs while you enjoy everything from running and biking to maxin' and relaxin'. They come in several fun patterns and have a moisture-wicking fabric to keep you dry.
Promising review: "This product is perfect for all outdoor activities! I recently got into bike shorts because I was tired of my thighs chafing when I run, hike, and bike. These shorts are shorter than other bike shorts, but long enough to prevent chafing. The patterns are perfect and vibrant and the cloth is so soft. They are incredibly breathable and comfortable for lounging in, or taking on a long run or bike ride." —Kindle Customer
Get them from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL, in sets of two, and in 16 colors/patterns).
And here's a similar plus size version (1X–5X) for $22.99.
14. A patterned high-waisted maxi skirt for *truly* endless outfit possibilities, which is a must when the temps start rising and your closet seems to start shrinking. Reviewers say it pairs well with crop tops, bodysuits, tank tops, and belts.
Promising review: "Loved it so much I bought it in four colors. Little on the long side, but I'm short. Perfect with a boot with a heel or pumps. Very versatile for California weather, can be born in summer or fall/winter. Fabric is soft and has permanent-pressed pleats. Love the pockets in the side seams. Overall, for the price, it can't be beat." —K. A.
Get it from Amazon for $33.89 (available in sizes XS–XXL and 19 colors/patterns).
15. Or a skater skirt with such a lovely A-line silhouette, you're legally required to twirl in it — I don't make the rules.
Pay attention to the numbers on the waistbands as they are different!
Promising review: "I've owned about 20 of these in nearly every shade and have never been disappointed. I truly ALWAYS come back to this brand and skirt whenever I know I need one or just want a new color. I cannot recommend these enough. Johnny's never let me down on being reasonably priced, beautifully colored, comfortable, and adorably flowy. To my plus-sized ladies, look carefully for the larger waistband that are on some of these! It truly helps with the high waisted feel/look." —Kiwi
Get it from Amazon for $10.84+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and 45 colors).
16. Roomy cargo shorts that'll make you wish summer lasted *much* longer. They have a pull-on design, pockets (!!!), an elastic waistband, and an adjustable drawstring. What more could you need?
Promising reviews: "Love these shorts! So comfy and will be perfect for summer. Fit is true to size. I'll be buying in every color." —Jess0088
"I bought this short in black and green. They are extremely comfortable, I work a pair for two separate 4 hour plus car rides and had no discomfort at all. I have always had trouble finding shorts that were comfortable and made me feel beautiful and this one surely did! I don't want to take them off." —Sweetpea87
Get it from Torrid for $49.90 (available in sizes M–6X and five colors).
17. A beachy maxi dress you can style with your favorite pair of strappy sandals during the day and add a light cardigan for those cool summer nights.
Cee Cee's Closet is a Black woman-owned brand that specializes in headwraps, clothes, and more made from gorgeous African textiles.
Get it from Cee Cee's Closet for $130 (available in sizes S–2X).
18. Or a pastel maxi dress with puffy sleeves that can be worn two different ways — off the shoulder or pulled up higher. Either way, Cinderella's got nothin' on you!
Promising review: "Absolutely loved this dress for my baby shower! Very comfortable, not sheer at all, and very stretchy. And you obviously can’t beat the price. Highly recommend!" —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $37.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and 27 colors).
19. Stretchy shorts for going sightseeing, running errands, or lounging by the pool. We love a pair of shorts that can do it all.
Promising review: "I love these shorts. They are well made and comfortable, and are just the right length (not too short, not too long). They have a little bit of stretch without losing their shape. I first bought the white for summer, later the beige, and now the Navy ("Indigo Blue"). I would wear these every day if I could, and will likely buy a new color every year. (Well priced too!)" —lifezgood
Get them from Amazon for $23.63+ (available in sizes 0–17 and 33 colors/styles).
20. An Outdoor Voices exercise dress if you've been longing to add a cute and functional piece to your summer wardrobe that never goes out of style. It has built-in shorts, adjustable straps, and a *very* versatile design.
BuzzFeed contributing writer Rachel Dunkel owns this dress and said: "I wore the exercise dress on a camping trip and absolutely loved it. It's tight enough that you feel agile but not SO tight that it's restricting. It was great for hiking, too! I even scaled some big ole' rocks and exposed mountain faces, and it fared really well. Despite me literally sliding down a giant rock on my butt, the dress never got caught, ripped, or showed wear. It's a trooper."
Promising review: "It’s the time of the year to invest in this dress!! You can live in this during the summer. So [cute] and has the comfiest, airiest fabric. I sized down a size just because I wanted it to be a little more fitted. Love the Exercise Dress!!" —Kayla
Get it from Outdoor Voices for $100 (available in sizes XXS–3X and eight colors/patterns).
21. A high-waisted pleated skirt that'll continue making the rounds in your lineup for... all of eternity. Wear it with a simple t-shirt and sneakers or dress it up with a blouse and heels.
Promising review: "This skirt is a perfect wardrobe staple! The waist has a nice stretch to it. The length hits at just the right place below the knee. I get a million compliments on this skirt anytime I wear it. I’ve had it for a year and a half — the color is still nice and black. I wash and dry it like normal, and it’s always looked great!" —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $33.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 37 colors, patterns, and lengths).
22. Girlfriend Collective's classic high-rise biker shorts with just the right amount of compression so you can get a workout in while still being comfortable for whatever else the day may bring. Did I mention the ride-up-resistant fabric? Genius!
These eco-friendly shorts are made out of recyclable materials, using RPET (a recyclable polyester) and old water bottles!
Promising review: "I have four pairs of the black bike shorts now, they’re pretty much my WFH uniform. Comfy enough to sit and work, but also have enough compression and high rise for me to feel comfortable when taking my dog out on a power walk. If you’re plus size and wondering if they’ll be tight around your legs/thighs, I didn’t find that, they’re pretty great." —Courtney C.
Get it from Girlfriend Collective for $48 (available in sizes XXS–6XL and eight colors).
23. A lovely sundress made of a lightweight fabric so you won't feel like your suffocating in the summer heat. It also has pockets and comes in a rainbow of color options.
Promising review: "I LOVE this dress. So comfy and lightweight. Beautiful print. Fits perfectly. The length is perfect, and the pockets are just awesome. I will for sure buy more styles of this dress. My husband also has told me how much he loves this dress on me, so this is definitely a win in the wardrobe category!" —Natasha Dosa
Get it from Amazon for $32.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and 30 colors/patterns).
24. A pair of cutoff shorts, which is basically a summer staple you probably didn't realize you needed...until now! It requires barely any planning on your part because all you have to do is throw on your fave band tee and head out the door.
These have over 12,900+ five-star reviews!!!
Promising review: "Absolutely love these shorts! The fit is amazing, and they are so comfortable and match everything. They are roomy but not enough to size down; they're more of a super comfy fit! I have the black and the dark blue. Love them both!" —Jacob H.
Get them from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in sizes S–XXL and 45 colors/styles).
And here's a similar plus-size version (14–26) for $28.99+.
25. A printed maxi dress perfect for chill days where the only thing on the agenda is being cozy *and* adorable. It comes in a variety of stylish patterns, so you may just have to snag 'em all.
Promising review: "I love this dress! It is super cute and exactly as pictured. In fact, the length is as long as the model in the picture. The color is unique and the pockets are always fun. The fabric is thin but not see-through. I like that I can wear it with flip-flops in the warmer months but also throw on a cardigan and wear it with boots in the fall/winter. You just can't beat the price either. I'm planning to buy another one soon." —A. Kaplafka
Get it from Amazon for $33.99 (available in sizes 14–26 and 40 colors).
26. A ruffled floral skirt because your legs deserve a break, dammit. If you've been hiding behind pants for the past several months, this is your sign to *finally* get your skirt on.
Promising reviews: "This skirt is very light, and the material thin so it's perfect for a hot summer day. It fits perfectly!" —Heidi
"I love this skirt! It fits just as expected and the fabric is good quality. You can dress this up or down. Definitely a new staple in my wardrobe!" —Makena.99
Get it from Amazon for $28.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and 44 colors/styles).
And here's a similar plus size version (XL–5X) for $23.99.
27. Or a three-tiered bohemian skirt if you prefer something slightly longer. This is *the* skirt for all the summer staycations you have planned and want a fun and effortless outfit option on deck.
Promising review: "This skirt is silky and flowy. The yellow is a perfect muted color with beautiful little flowers and the three tiers make it lay nicely. I am 5’1” and I love where the skirt comes to on me — it's not quite a midi or maxi." —Leslie
Get it from Amazon for $31.98 (available in sizes S–XXL and 17 colors/prints).
28. A flowy skater dress in the most enchanting shade of periwinkle blue that'll have you lookin' like a flower in full bloom. The soft viscose material has a metallic shine to it and the elasticated waistband ensures a comfy fit.
Loud Bodies is a woman-owned small business that creates sustainable, size-inclusive clothing. If you don’t find yourself among their sizing or are not sure which size would fit you best, the brand can create custom orders at no additional charge!
Promising review: "It’s a perfect, flowy, mermaidy dress! And easy to wear every day. I love the fabric, the soft color and it is also very comfortable." —Audrey
Get it from Loud Bodies for $52.50+ (originally $87.50+; available in sizes XXS–10X and with or without pockets).
29. A pair of drawstring shorts you'll turn to in your time of need — you know, when the weather's heating up and you need a pair of quick and easy bottoms to complete your look.
30. A vintage-style skirt that can be dressed up or down depending on your mood. Combine it with heels for an elegant night out or throw on your denim jacket for a casual day at the farmer's market.
Promising review: "I ordered this skirt because I wanted to try something different. Never in my mind did I imagine that I would fall in love with this skirt!!! It has a high waist and it has pockets!!! One on each side and the fit for me was perfect. I was never really into high-waisted skirts, however this one has changed my mind!! It fit just right and I have worn it out and have gotten many compliments on it. Most skirts like this don't have pockets...the pockets are a plus!! Love this skirt and I intend on buying another one. You can pair this with so many things and so many colors." —Crystal Sampler
Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and 28 colors/styles).
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.