Everything that's on the Cosmo girl’s 'it summer' must-haves list

With the sun shining high and bright, it’s officially time to pack away the layers and bring out the breezy dresses, candy-coloured accessories, and all the vibrant, playful staples that define summer style. Sure, the heat can be relentless, but this is also when fashion feels fun again—your wardrobe gets a refresh with breathable fabrics, relaxed silhouettes, and mood-boosting details.

But summer-ready style isn’t just about what you wear. From the right pair of sunglasses to skin and haircare that actually hold up in the heat, it's the season to upgrade every part of your routine. Whether you're planning a full-on seasonal revamp or just looking to swap in a few warm-weather essentials, here’s your guide to keeping it cool, chic, and sun-ready from head to toe.

Co-ords and polka dots, calling your attention 

Pallavi Swadi’s co-ord sets are the kind that do the talking for you. Flowing fabrics, flirty cuts, and punchy prints come together to create wardrobe heroes you can wear on rotation. Whether you’re jetting off or stepping into the office, there’s a set here that’s bound to lift your mood and your look. And if you are a polka dot girlie, Merakus nails the memo with its yellow polka shirt dress that blends retro flair with everyday ease. The kind of piece that moves from picnic to party without skipping a beat. 

Textures, styles, colours, and all things summer

For a wholesome summer collection, do also check out the selection at House of Fett for a couple of colourful and flowy outfits that scream a breezy summer aesthetic, but with finesse. Try on their Corsica Printed Maxi Dress to live out your days by the pool like the fashionista that you are or opt in for their peppy Anarie Short Cotton Dress for a day by the beach, cocktail in hand.

Flaunt your prints and patterns

If your summer vibe includes getting lost in a sea of playful patterns and standout styles, Dash and Dot’s new collection is basically your go-to online store. We’re talking flowy co-ords, head-turning dresses, power jackets, and statement styles—all served up in bold prints, luxe fabrics and details that make you look effortlessly extra. Don the florals and pastels in a whole new light as you fall in love with Dash and Dot’s all things artisanal collection.

From the ground up: Summer flats 

Ditch the heavy boots—Summer Away’s collection of open-toe flats is what you need to keep things cool and comfortable. Think strappy sandals, easy sliders, and neutral tones that go with every outfit under the sun. Look for soft leather finishes, braided straps, or chic metallics that seamlessly blend comfort and style, making them perfect for everything from a beach day to a rooftop bar, without compromising on flair. For an extra dose of vacation vibes, opt for neutral shades like tan, beige, or soft pastels. These not only look great with any outfit but also keep you cool while keeping things chic. 

Eyewear in vogue

This summer let the only magnificently blinding light be your confident aura. Complete your look with a pair of fancy eyewear from Miu Miu or Jacquemus eyewear—with Zeiss Vision Centre by Techoptix offering a curated selection for any and every outfit—and you’ve got that high-low fashion mix on lock. Opt for classy aviators for those much needed getaways, or an uber cool tinted pair of shades to pair with your outfit for that extra flair. Either way, don’t miss out on this small yet essential accessory.

When your outfit is done, don’t forget the extras. The Mermade Hair Interchangeable Blow Dry Brush gives your strands a salon-style bounce without the heat stroke. And if we are going to talk about glam, summer glam is always incomplete without the right skincare. While the rule “less is more” stands correct in the scorching summer heat, Pureearth offers a range of products that pack the goodness of natural ingredients, that are not just the superfood your skin needs but also provides just the protection your skin needs this season.

Bags that brighten the day

Swapping out your winter totes for breezy summer arm candy? Enter Urban Space’s curated summer bags that pair classic handcraft with sunny flair. Think canvas bags in solid colours or patterned designs in monochromes or pastel palettes that practically scream urban and chic. Expect pops of colour, tactile textures, and totes made for beach-to-brunch versatility. Pick from their Atelier collection, for the perfect arm candy to accompany you to your big-girl corporate job. And when you put in a request for PTO turn it into a carry on that gives off relaxed vacation vibes, sure to turn heads as you move through the airport lobbies.

The it-girl glam kit

When your outfit is done, don’t forget the extras. The Mermade Hair Interchangeable Blow Dry Brush gives your strands a salon-style bounce without the heat stroke. And if we are going to talk about glam, summer glam is always incomplete without the right skincare. While the rule “less is more” stands correct in the scorching summer heat, Pureearth offers a range of products that pack the goodness of natural ingredients, that are not just the superfood your skin needs but also provide just the protection your skin needs this season.

Summer bonus: Cool off with style

And just when you’ve nailed your summer look, what better way to cool off than with a scoop (or three) from Lick by Lavonne? The fashion-to-food crossover we didn’t know we needed, their Instagrammable ice cream creations are your perfect post-shopping pit stop. And if an ice cream was not enough to satisfy you, you also need to browse through Magnolia’s summer menu, rife with tropical offerings boasting the sweetness of mango and the magic of heavenly baked goodies!

On our playlist 

Curate your perfect summer wardrobe, and remember that this hot girl summer is all about feeling confident, comfortable, and ready to own the season in style, with this 'it-summer' playlist! 

Like Jennie by Jennie Kim

Juno by Sabrina Carpenter 

APT. by Rose ft. Bruno Mars 

Chill by Lisa

Push 2 Start by Tyla

Messy by Lola Young

That's So True by Gracie Abrams

Illusion by Dua Lipa

Curate your perfect summer wardrobe, and remember that this hot girl summer is all about feeling confident, comfortable, and ready to own the season in style!

Lead image credit: Dash & Dot, Pexels 

Also read: Tired of basic beach pics? Here's how to take vacation photos that tell a deeper story

Also read: The best summer beach bags to tote around in style