Every summer, like clockwork, I fall into the same pattern: I get swept up in the excitement of early travel plans, treat myself to a few new pieces I’ve been eyeing, and before I know it, my budget is… let’s just say, not exactly thriving. That’s usually when the familiar frustration sets in: a closet full of clothes, yet somehow, nothing to wear. But over the years, I’ve learned this feeling doesn’t mean I need more clothes—it just means I need a fresh perspective on the ones I already have. 

Enter: my carefully curated Pinterest boards. A quick scroll through my saved summer outfits is usually all it takes to reframe how I see my wardrobe. And when it comes to dressing for summer, that little boost of inspiration goes a long way. For me, it’s less about reinventing the wheel and more about reworking the classics: experimenting with fresh color combos, reaching for long-forgotten accessories, or swapping in an unexpected pair of shoes.

Ahead, I’m sharing the 10 summer Pinterest outfits I’m using as inspiration to breathe new life into my wardrobe.

Looking for an easy way to elevate your summer uniform? Give this season’s scarf belt trend a try. Start a crisp white tee and relaxed linen pants, then tie a printed scarf at the waist and add a bold pendant necklace for a look that feels styled without trying too hard.

Come summer, few pieces work harder than a classic button-up. Whether thrown over a swimsuit or tucked into boxer-style shorts, a button-up always looks effortlessly put-together. Add a straw tote and consider it your new go-to for warm-weather days, from beach to brunch.

Linen pants deserve more credit. They’re just as easy as shorts but feel way more elevated—especially when paired with a ribbed tank and sleek black slides. In this case, try using the “sandwich” method: opt for a black tank and black slides with a pair of light linen pants in between.

This outfit is proof that sometimes, all it takes is the right accessory to make an outfit feel completely new. A white tank and mini skirt are a no-brainer combination, but swap in a bold red skirt and a silk scarf at the neck or tied to your bag, and the look feels infinitely more intentional. Finish it off with neutral sandals and a minimal bag to keep things grounded.

Whenever I feel stuck (read: catch myself standing in front of my closet for too long), I grab a cardigan—not to wear, but to tie around my waist. It instantly breaks up a simple or monochromatic look, adds texture, and provides a built-in layer for when the temps take an unexpected dip. Think: style hack meets functional layer.

A white dress is a summer essential. Dress it down with an open denim shirt for a relaxed vibe, and finish with ballet flats to keep the look casual but refined. It’s easy, classic, and works for just about any occasion on your calendar.

White tees get all the love, but a grey tee can be just as versatile—and a little more unexpected. Pair yours with a pop of color (citron or cobalt, anyone?) via a pair of pull on-style shorts or in this case, a sweatshirt tied around the waist. Complete the look with flip-flops for an unfussy, wear-on-repeat kind of outfit.

If you’re over denim cutoffs, trouser shorts are the upgrade you’ve been looking for. While they clean up nicely with a blouse, they’re at their coolest when styled with something simple, like a ribbed tank and flip-flops. If you haven’t added a pair to your summer rotation yet, take this as your sign.