I Can’t Resist a Maximalist Aesthetic, Here are 14 Items I’m Buying for Summer

Rachel Antonoff is a great place to find cheeky prints, like this bean plant design, with the added bonus that everything comes in sizes XS to 3X. And the silhouettes are both comfortable and flattering, too. This cotton/linen number is bra-friendly, has pockets and is long enough to sport a little pair of anti-chafe shorts if you like, but doesn’t feel overly baggy or shapeless. Not entirely sure you’re ready to bring a bean print dress into your wardrobe permanently? This cutie, plus other RA styles, is also available to rent at Rent the Runway starting at just $35.

FAST FACTS

• Size Range: XS to 3X
• Materials: 52 percent linen, 48 percent cotton

I love a good statement shoe, but with my blister-prone feet, it also has to be comfortable and supportive for walking around the city. So many Teva designs check all those boxes, but this Aventrail style is swiftly becoming my new go-to for summer 2025. I actually own a men’s pair because I preferred the green-and-yellow colorway, but I really can’t stop thinking about this teal-and-cherry red design as well. (To convert women’s shoe sizes to men’s simply subtract 1.5—for example, I wear a women’s 10, but a men’s 8.5.) They’re supremely comfortable, add a little bit of height with that super-thick sole and are waterproof, so I don’t need to stress about stumbling into an unexpected rainstorm. Add to that the highly adjustable trio of straps and you’ve got yourself a no-brainer, IMO.

FAST FACTS

• Size Range: US 5 to 11

There are a lot of versions of this best-selling beaded bag, including food themes, surfers, retro flowers and more, but it’s the colorblocked stripes I find myself returning to time and time again. The mix of white, black and various shades of blue allow me to pair it back to plenty of pieces in my closet, and the beading makes it a great option for more formal events like wedding receptions and cocktail parties. And according to reviewers, this shoulder bag has room for all the essentials (phone, wallet, keys, lip balm) plus a few extras. All for under $100.

FAST FACTS

• Size: 5” H x 8” W x 1.75” D
• Materials: cotton with glass and acrylic beading

I’ve spotted so many fashion gals on my Instagram sporting Marimekko denim, and I think it’s high time I join the crowd. The iconic flower design adds some much needed flair to an otherwise simple wide-leg silhouette, and the darker wash helps elevate the pattern so it doesn’t veer too far into ‘60s hippie territory. Because they’re made of 100 percent cotton, there is little to no stretch to the material, however they will conform to your figure with regular wear, so keep that in mind when deciding what size to add to your shopping cart.

FAST FACTS

• Size Range: US 25 to 34
• Materials: 100 percent cotton

Lisa Says Gah is another place maximalists will love. And while the brand’s Italian food theme prints are likely its best known, I’m really loving this oversize tulip appliqué as a chic alternative. The cotton base is a super simple silhouette—a black, spaghetti strap minidress—but the addition of a giant yellow tulip sewn onto the front takes it from fine to fabulous! There’s also a tie in back so you can cinch the waist if you like. The brand does note this dress reportedly runs small, so you may want to go up from your usual size.

FAST FACTS

• Size Range: XS to 4XL
• Materials: 100 percent cotton

I first saw these flower earrings on Pinterest and immediately clicked through to see where I could buy a pair. So imagine my delight to learn these are made by a local SoCal designer and cost under $40? They are exactly as pictured IRL and are pretty lightweight, so I can wear them all day without really noticing them. The gold adds just enough shimmer and the color of the flowers really pops. Just know, it does take a week or so to ship, so if you want these beauties for a special occasion or to give as a gift, be sure to order well ahead of time.

FAST FACTS

• Size: 2 inches long
• Materials: brass, stainless steel and acrylic

Sheer lace skirts are having a moment, but I’ve yet to figure out exactly how to make the trend work for me. Entire this sweet-yet-sporty pink set from ASOS. The color is exactly the right shade of pink to feel bold without going full Barbie, and won’t totally wash me out either. And I really appreciate that the skirt is lined to just above the knee so I don’t need to figure out a base layer either. According to reviews, there’s not much stretch to the material, so despite the oversize design up top, I recommend sticking with your usual size to ensure a comfortable fit.

FAST FACTS

• Size Range: US 0 to 14
• Materials: 100 percent polyester

An A-line midi skirt looks good on just about everybody, but rather than settle for a simple white version, I’m going all in on this painted stunner instead. The pastel-sketched bouquet is just gorgeous and gives this classic skirt an artsy vibe I adore. It also has an elastic waistband to comfortably move with you throughout the day, and there are hidden pockets on the sides. If I really decide to splurge, there’s also a matching top ($258) with the same floral print.

FAST FACTS

• Size Range: XXS to 2X
• Materials: 100 percent cotton

Swap that preppy string of pearls for this bold seashell collar to give your summer wardrobe a beachy-chic vibe. The gold nautilus closure can be worn in front or back, and the shells are sustainably sourced for an eco-friendly bonus. That said, you should avoid wearing this beauty in the shower, pool or ocean to best maintain the finish. Worried those oversize shells will look a bit too big? There’s a smaller version ($168) with a more delicate vibe, as well.

FAST FACTS

• Size: 17 inches long
• Materials: 14k gold-plated steel and shell discs

Who doesn’t love a good two-in-one clothing item? This funky striped dress has removable puff sleeves tied on with dainty bows along the shoulders, so you can switch things up on the go to give yourself an entirely new look. The smocked bodice is also incredibly comfortable, and wonderful for hugging your curves without feels restrictive. And don’t even get me started on that yummy yellow, brown and green stripe print—I’m in!

FAST FACTS

• Size Range: US 2 to 16
• Materials: 100 percent organic

$165 at Anthropologie

Breezy linen pants are a must for beating the summer heat in style, which is why I plan to add multiple colors of these easy pull-on trousers to my shopping cart. My top pick, however, is the red-and-white vertical stripe pictured above. The sun-washed red stands out but isn’t giving candy cane vibes, and the elastic waistband guarantees all-day comfort. As for sizing, reviewers say these pants do run a smidge large, but most still agree it’s best to take your usual size to achieve the same flowy look as pictured on site.

FAST FACTS

• Size Range: XS to 4X, also Petite and Tall
• Materials: 100 percent cotton

Hydrangeas are some of my favorite flowers, so it was truly love at first sight for me and this backless hydrangea-inspired top. There are straps that tie behind the neck and a set that knots behind you back as well to secure this surprisingly sexy number in place. As it’s made from 100 percent linen, hand washing and laying flat to dry is best, but I think a piece this unique is well worth the extra effort. I plan to wear it with high-waist white trousers or with a pastel midi skirt.

FAST FACTS

• Size: 16-inch diameter at widest part
• Materials: 100 percent linen

What may appear to be a fairly classic white shirtdress as first glance is actually a rainbow-trimmed beauty that demands to be taken for a spin. The sleeves flare out at the shoulder for a dramatic silhouette, while the curved trimming on the tiers gives the illusion of movement even while you’re seated enjoying an Aperol spritz. The tie at the waist is a drawstring you can cinch or loosen as needed, and there are pockets on the side for stowing all your summertime essentials (i.e. lip gloss and some SPF).

FAST FACTS

• Size Range: XXS to XXL
• Materials: 79 percent cotton, 18 percent nylon, 3 percent spandex

These cheeky earrings give me ‘90s cartoon vibes in all the best ways. Something about that wavy caterpillar just feels very Aaahh!!! Real Monsters, and is giving me a seriously case of nostalgia for picnics in the park and backyard summers. These earrings are very lightweight—great for all-day wear—and are just the right size to register as a simple colorful hoop from afar, becoming more and more interesting the closer you get.

FAST FACTS

• Size: 1.5 inches long
• Materials: hand-enameled bronze