42 Nordstrom, J.Crew, and Gap Finds That Are About to Replace All My Summer Basics

Do you ever start shopping and realize that you don’t just want one or two items but suddenly crave an entire wardrobe overhaul? Same. On a recent perusing of the new-arrivals section on of my favorite sites, I came across so many strong pieces that I started envisioning a whole new wardrobe with these chic updates. More than anything, it was the new wardrobe basics at Nordstrom, J.Crew, and Gap that really caught my eye and made me consider replacing the very versions in my own closet to start off summer 2025 on a strong note.

These aren’t just your plain tanks or basic shorts. No, the new closet updates I’m about to showcase here each have something special about them that sets them apart from the rest—especially the ones already in my closet. Think trendy thong heels, delicate and airy embroidered cotton tops, and even elevated-looking capri pants that are taking over my heart (and cart) right now. They may be more forward than basic, but I already know these will become the foundation for my entire summer wardrobe. Yep, I’m crushing big time on these simple but impactful finds, and I think you will, too. Scroll down to shop them all.

Nordstrom

Madewell Embroidered Scalloped Tank Top

The white-top silhouette of the summer.

Open Edit Crepe Capri Leggings

Capri pants are basically a wardrobe staple for me now.

Open Edit Tori Kitten Heel Sandal

Trust—they make every outfit way chicer.

Reformation Archie Organic Cotton Blend Jersey Tank

Easy tank, of-the-moment color.

Open Edit Wide Leg Linen Blend Pants

To wear with tanks, bikinis, and button-downs alike.

Madewell Handwoven Leather Tote

For the beach and way beyond.

AGOLDE Dame High Waist Mid Length Relaxed Denim Shorts

If I’m wearing denim shorts in 2025, they’re going to be a relaxed mid-thigh shape.

Rubi Shoes Annalise Mini Round Sunglasses

I had to do a double take at the price.

Treasure & Bond Blouson Twill Utility Jacket

The ultimate spring-to-summer transition piece.

Cotton On Lola Low Rise Suiting Pant

I’m always looking for the ideal black pants, and these come very close to perfection.

Mansur Gavriel Gaia Leather Shoulder Bag

The skinny strap is so chic.

Reformation Betsy Bloomer Shorts

Love or hate them, bloomers are back again.

J.Crew

J.Crew Como Woven Straw Tote

The nicest-looking raffia bag I’ve seen all season.

J.Crew New Soleil Pant in Striped Linen

Simply a must.

J.Crew Pintuck Mixy Dress

This khaki hue feels fresher than all the white dresses currently in my closet.

J.Crew Perfect-Fit High-Neck Tank Top

The name says it all: It’s perfect in every way.

J.Crew Crochet Beach Skirt

Crochet beach skirt? Say less.

J.Crew Crochet Balconette Underwire Bikini Top

The color and texture make this look and feel like a designer bikini.

J.Crew Relaxed Premium-Weight Cropped T-Shirt in Stripe

White tees are out—striped tees are in.

J.Crew Eyelet Short in Linen-Cotton Blend

So pretty.

J.Crew New Colbie Wide-Strap Sandals in Suede

Well these look triple their price, now don’t they?

J.Crew Packable Straw Hat

Can’t go on vacation without one.

J.Crew Lace-Trim Shift Dress

From the beach to dinner and back again.

J.Crew Andi Ballet Flats in Mesh

I wore my mesh flats to death last summer, so I’ll be replacing them with these while they’re on sale for less than $100.

J.Crew Bungalow Wire-Frame Sunglasses

The only sunglasses trend that matters to me right now.

J.Crew Claudia One-Piece in Classic Sculpt

Nineties-supermodel vibes.

Gap

Gap × DÔEN 100% Linen Gingham Midi Dress

A piece from the latest Gap x Dôen launch that’s still in stock? Say it isn’t so.

Gap 100% Linen Tie-Front Shirt

Compliments are inevitable.

Gap 100% Linen Easy Shorts

More comfortable than denim shorts, more elevated than track shorts.

Gap Jelly Flip-Flops

The trendiest $30 you’ll spend all season.

Gap 100% Linen Oversized Shirt

BRB, swapping my white shirts with pretty pastel hues.

Gap Curvy High Rise Barrel Jeans

This shape gets a 10/10 from me.

Gap Gapstudio Satin Slip Dress

Gap, is that you?!

Gap Lace-Trim PJ Cami Set

Way too pretty to only wear as pajamas.

Gap Sheer Rib Sweater T-Shirt

This would be so fun as a vacation piece.

Gap 365 Low Rise Linen-Blend Trouser Shorts

Ask anyone I know. Tailored Bermuda shorts are the only kind I wear anymore.

Gap Linen-Blend Square-Neck Maxi Dress

Effortlessly elegant.

Gap CloseKnit Cropped Halter Top

Comfy and cool.

Gap Easy Bubble Midi Skirt

I love this trendier spin on a classic white skirt.

Gap Modern Apron-Neck Tank Top

Suddenly, all my white tanks are falling flat.

Gap 11″ Mid Rise Longline Denim Shorts

An outfit idea to match.