Our Favorite Summer Wardrobe Staples for Kids (and Moms, Too)

There’s a reason we return to these Hanna Andersson suits again and again. They’ll hold up through a summer of heavy use at the beach or pool, and you may even be able to hand them down after that. It’s a case of “you get what you pay for,” and in this case, that’s a lot. ($42+, Hanna Andersson)

Putting sunscreen on your suddenly-impossible-to-pin-down kids…let’s just say it’s not the most relaxing way to start a pool day. These full-body suits make things easier by drastically reducing the amount of skin you’ll need to cover with sunblock. Plus, several bright neon options make them extra safe for swimming, since experts recommend swimsuits that are super easy to spot. ($49.99, Amazon)

If you’re shopping for a fashion-conscious little one who still might find herself wandering past a splash pad or two, you need something like this — a pair of sandals that would look great with summer dresses, and also won’t get ruined immediately on contact with water. ($49.95, Zappos)

We buy these in bulk (on sale, when possible), because they’re the perfect summer undershort. They’re thick enough to last multiple summers (provided your kids don’t outgrow them first), but the 90% cotton fabric still has some breathability. They’re the ideal length to go under dresses. ($11, Hanna Andersson)

If you have such a child at home, you know the struggle of respecting their wardrobe preferences while also keeping them comfortable in the hotter months. These breathable mesh pants are some of the lightest you’ll find, and also work great if you’re hoping to keep sensitive skin out of the sun or protected from bugs. ($27.99/2-pack, Old Navy)

We’ve been Kizik evangelists for a while now, and summer is the perfect season to get everyone into a pair of these easy-to-wear shoes. No need to bend over or tie anything — just step right in. You’ll find a wide variety of options for both kids and adults, from classic faves to limited-edition patterns. ($99+, Kizik) ($59, Kizik)

We know, it’s hard to believe your tween actually wants to wear these. But hey…there was a time you thought they were cute, too, right? Go with a pattern, theme, or classic color…and don’t forget the Jibbitz. ($39.99+, Crocs)

If you’re past the years when you could buy a random rash guard on Amazon and call it a day, and your teens are a little more vocal about their beach apparel, try these Athleta rash guards that will protect them from sunburn…and may also protect you from violently rolled eyes. ($34.50, Athleta)

We’re fans of all the shorts in the Thigh Society collection, but there’s a special place in our hearts for the “Cooling” short. It’s so whisper-thin that you’ll never resent the extra layer, even on the hottest days. In fact, those are probably the days you’ll appreciate these the most. ($44, Thigh Society)

Ah, the joy of finding a piece of clothing you absolutely love…then realizing it comes in 15 different colors and patterns, so you can basically make it your entire wardrobe and/or personality going forward. This pretty button-down, sold in sizes 0-20/22, could be just what you’ve been waiting for. ($99, Boden)

If you’re experiencing postpartum night sweats or menopausal hot flashes — or if you’re just a hot sleeper, especially in the summer — you’re probably on the hunt for cooling PJs like these. These cute and comfortable separates are made from eucalyptus, birch, and pine-based MicroTencel fabric to wick away sweat. You may just find yourself wearing some of the pieces (like these joggers) out of the house, too. ($138, A Domani) ($68, A Domani)

The black and wild cherry versions of this jumpsuit have been haunting our daydreams (and targeted ads) for months now. This light, soft jumpsuit would be equally cute paired with a denim jacket at a backyard BBQ, or under a light cashmere wrap for cocktails at your friends’ beach house. ($49.90, Quince)

Since Old Navy almost always has a sale, you’ll likely get this summer staple at a fraction of the actual price. For a skirt that washes well and doesn’t lose its pleats, that’s a steal. The fabric makes it seem like workout wear, but this is actually cute enough for dinner out or a coffee date, too. You may end up with all four colors. ($18.49, Old Navy)