When the sun is blazing, sundresses, t-shirts and cut-offs can easily start feeling like your summer uniform. But with a few timeless wardrobe staples, you can breathe new life into your entire wardrobe and create countless on-trend summer outfits. We’ve included our stylists’ favourite staples and combinations below.

We’ve all been there — plans after work, but no time to change your outfit. The office is freezing, but outside it’s a sauna. Enter the everything-coat: a light, neutral trench or jacket you can throw on over a dress or shorts to stay warm in the wintery A/C, that’s also light enough to transition to a summer patio. Plus, it can help you dress up your more casual work outfits for evening festivities. To effortlessly transition your outfit from day to night, elevate your look with a stylish pair of shoes or a bold statement bag that adds that perfect touch of flair.

Brunch is the perfect opportunity to showcase playful pieces, like a colourful jacket or a lavish sunhat, and the right staples can help you accentuate your outfit’s focal point without seeming over the top. To balance out your look, ground your statement pieces with a pair of breathable shorts or loose trousers. These versatile essentials look amazing in countless combinations and can be effortlessly dressed up or down, ensuring you stay stylish whether your plans call for elegance or a more casual vibe.

At hot outdoor festivals, lightweight, breathable layers are the secret to protecting your skin from the sun and the heat, so you can keep the good vibes going. Opt for a vest to transition from hot daytime sets to chilly evening shows. Complete your ensemble with a great pair of walking shoes, a cross-body bag and sunglasses so you can dance the day (and night) away in style.

One favourite summer wear tip is to balance a structured top or blazer with relaxed trousers — or, to reverse this combination, putting stiff jeans or pants together with a looser blazer or oversized shirt. Finish with bold accessories to add dimension to your outfit and pull the contrasting elements together into one cohesive look that’s perfect for dinner, dancing, or wherever the summer night takes you.

Whether you're exploring urban breweries or country vineyards, a splash of colour can help elevate your look for a day of sipping, snacking, and snapping photos. We recommend choosing your coloured piece first, then building your outfit with complimentary neutrals and accessories. Adding a small purse or travel bag is a practical choice to carry your essentials, especially if you're exploring multiple locations. Looking to spice up your warm weather wardrobe? Dive into our outfit guide to find these essential pieces and more summer staples, waiting for you at your local CF shopping center!