I know talking about the weather is boring, but where I am, it seems like we’ve gone straight from wintery snowstorms and slushy roads to blisteringly hot summer days. And let me tell you, I have a bit of sartorial whiplash. I’ve been waiting for a chance to wear cute mules, light jackets, and floaty tops, but it seems like I have to go straight to my summer wardrobe, do not pass go, do not collect $200.

Not that I mind – after a couple of years of working and building up my wardrobe, I have a lot of summer pieces that have lasted me a long time and I really love – and they’re not the kind of pieces you have to replace every year because they fall apart from constant use.

In college, it seemed like every summer I had to replace my favorite pair of sandals or flip flops, or a summer bag that was barely holding on by the time fall rolled around. Now, I know that spending a bit more on pieces I love (and look a lot sharper) is well worth the investment and makes my wardrobe look a little, well, more grown. If you’re just graduating college or just looking to up your fashion game a bit, try swapping out some of your tried-and-trues this summer for some sturdy, sophisticated staples. 

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If you live in your flip flops all summer, try…

Minimalist Sandals

Products: Dress – ASOS, Bag – Urban Outfitters, Bracelet – Ahalife, Hat – Saks Off Fifth, Sandals – Neiman Marcus Last Call, Facial Mist – Revolve, Highlighter – Sephora

I get it…flip flops are a no-brainer in the summer. They go with everything! Your feet don’t sweat as much! They show off your manicure! But they’re also kind of gross, friends, especially if they’re all you wear in the summer, and there are soooo many other cute sandal options out there.