Your Summer Wardrobe: 8 Must-Have Minimalist Essentials

ERVINE summer wardrobe. Men's Maroon or Red Straight Leg Pants, Cotton Yellow Drop Shoulder t-shirt, grey tee, White wide-leg pants

It is undeniable that the minimalist aesthetic is on the rise. From “quiet luxury” trends to the sustainability movement, it is clear that the era of big patterns (like camo) and the “more is more” mentality has come to a halt…for now. 

However, embracing a more minimal aesthetic doesn’t mean compromising on personal style and self-expression. In fact, it’s all about finding the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. 

As the summer season approaches, it’s time to curate your wardrobe with essential pieces that embody an understated style that is unapologetically “you”. 

Here are some must-have clothing items that will elevate your summer wardrobe, based on this year’s biggest trend: elevated minimalism. 

Thick Oversized Tees:

Opt for oversized tees in lightweight fabrics such as linen or cotton. Look for clean lines, neutral colours, and a relaxed fit. Tees like this are easy to style with tailored shorts or wide-leg pants for an effortless summer fit. Pro tip: Tuck in the front of your tee with some linen pants for a casual, yet polished look.

Lightweight Jackets or Hoodies:

Evenings can get cooler during summer, so having a lightweight jacket or hoodie is essential. Choose a sleek monochromatic design with a neutral colour palette. Layer it over your favourite tee or pair it with your favourite jeans for an effortlessly cool and versatile ensemble.

Elevated Basic Tank Tops:

No summer wardrobe is complete without at least one high-quality basic tank top. Look for details like ribbed textures and asymmetrical cuts. You can stick to neutral shades, or experiment with muted tones. Combine the basic tank with tailored shorts, a skirt, or trousers, and layer it under oversized blazers/jackets for a slouchy, put-together look. 

Straight-Leg Trousers: 

Straight-leg trousers are the epitome of relaxed elegance. Opt for natural fibres like linen or flowy cotton blends in earthy tones (i.e beige, olive, grey, or black). Pair them with tucked-in tanks or tees for a refined and breezy look. 

Patterned Socks:

Don’t forget about the details! Socks can be a fun way to add personality to your outfits. Go with patterns or prints that complement your overall aesthetic. Letting them peek out from under your trousers or pairing them with shorts and sneakers can add an interesting twist to any outfit.

Caps:

caps are incredibly functional for the summer. Opt for a neutral-toned hat in a breathable fabric like cotton or canvas. This accessory adds a contemporary touch to your outfit while protecting you from the sun. Pair it with almost any outfit for a touch of streetwear in your ensemble. 

Statement Sunglasses:

Oversized shades are a thing of the past. Look for unique and preferably small-medium frame shapes that reflect your personal style. Square or round frames often complement the minimalistic aesthetic. When in doubt, throw on some classic aviators. 

Chunky leather Sandals:

The perfect way to complete your summer outfit. Opt for comfortable designs with clean lines that will balance out your overall look. Alternatively, a good old ‘Dad Sneaker’ can also do the trick.


Simplicity and sophistication go hand in hand when it comes to contemporary minimalistic style. This year it is all about balancing comfort, effortlessness, and elegance. 

By incorporating these eight essential pieces into your wardrobe you can seamlessly achieve an elevated look that is up-to-date. Embrace clean lines, neutral tones, and lightweight natural materials. And remember, there is no right or wrong way to style a piece of clothing. All that matters is that you feel confident in the pieces you decide to wear. 

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