I don’t know about you, but every time I step foot in a Target, I end up buying the whole store when I only needed to restock my micellar water. (C’est la vie!) And right now, the Target summer finds are popping off, so there are a ton of really good linen shirts and linen shirtdresses to keep you cool. Not to mention, a handful of cute accessories, including comfortable sandals, beachy handbags and some sunglasses to complete your look. To make your shopping a bit easier—and to prevent you from going overboard and buying all of Target—I found 20 pieces from Target’s summer fashion collection to add to your summer capsule wardrobe—starting at $8, too.
The Target Summer Fashion Section Is So Good: Here Are 20 Items I Have in My Cart
Starting at $8…yes, really
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Published Jun 12, 2024
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PureWow / Target
The Best Target Summer Fashion at a Glance
1
Shade & Shore Bandeau Swimsuit
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2
A New Day Linen Mini Shift Dress
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3
Universal Thread Petra Thong Sandals
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4
A New Day Knit Midi Dress
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5
All in Motion Flex Woven Mid-Rise Shorts
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1. Shade & Shore Bandeau Swimsuit
Shade & Shore
Popular among PureWow editors and readers, this one-piece bathing suit is a must-have for the summer. The fan-favorite ribbed swimsuit features flattering shirring and removable straps, so you can make a splash and capitalize on sun time (with minimal tan lines). It’s made with a spandex fabric that’s known to be soft, flexible and fully lined, so it won’t feel as thin as paper. Shoppers rave about the silhouette, especially the removable cups, but they do note it runs small, so you may want to size up.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to XL
2. A New Day Linen Mini Shift Dress
A New Day
Summer sundresses should be breezy, lightweight and not suffocating in the slightest—much like this shift dress, which is made from the most breathable linen canvas fabric that’ll still maintain a midweight feel that won’t make you overheat in the slightest. “[I] absolutely love this dress,” gushes one Target customer. “It’s cute and comfortable and the best part: It has pockets. Perfect for a brunch and to run errands. My favorite dress of the summer already!”
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to 4X
3. Universal Thread Petra Thong Sandals
Universal Thread
I’m in desperate need of a sandal revamp, and I have a feeling I’m not alone. When I saw these sleek, nude-colored sandals, I knew I had to share them with you. They’re airy and open toed, boasting the chicest gold metal detailing at the toe and buckle closure. Let’s face it, a sandal with a secure backing will always reign superior, because no one wants to deal with the dreaded sandal slip. According to reviews, customers agree that the sandals are comfortable and lightweight. In fact, one buyer mentions that the sandal’s soft sole includes a memory foam-like base, and I think we can all agree that a sandal that looks cute *and* has cushioning is extremely hard to come by.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 12
A New Day
Special occasions call for special ensembles, like this knit midi dress from Target exclusive brand A New Day. The strapless silhouette is one of the biggest summer fashion trends of 2024, so this number doesn’t miss, especially with the gathering effect that will create the illusion of a slimmer midsection and conceal any lumps, bumps or dimples. What’s more, it’s purportedly stretchy and soft, so it’s not only sexy and cute but oh-so comfortable, too.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to 4X
5. All in Motion Flex Woven Mid-Rise Shorts
All in Motion
Behold: Short workout shorts that won’t leave you feeling exposed or self-conscious, regardless of your shape or size. One customer writes, “Ladies, if you have bigger legs that aren’t like most of the pencil thin legs out there, and a larger butt, [then] these shorts are for you! I seriously can never find shorts that don’t ride up in the back as they are always too short because of my butt. These shorts are perfection and I hope Target never stops making them. I will live in them this summer! Lightweight, breathable and [they] don’t pull anywhere.” As if that wasn’t enough, the four-way stretch fabric incorporates UPF 50+ protection, is moisture-wicking, water-repellent and has pockets.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to 4X
6. A New Day Woven Slouchy Shoulder Handbag
A New Day
Woven leather totes are one of the six summer handbag trends you need to keep on your radar, so naturally you need this orange stunner in your summer collection if you want to pack a juicy punch. It’s Bottega Venetta meets summer solstice vibes. “It's a nice orange that looks fab with navy or really any neutral for a more classic look, or even pink or yellow for a summer look,” notes one reviewer. “Second, it’s a nice size—holds enough, but [is] not too big. Last, the price was great.” Who knew that $30 could get you something as fabulous and spacious as this? It has an interior pocket where you can stash your cards, keys or small knickknacks and a zipper closure for safe keeping.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: one size
7. Ava & Viv Tie-Front Midi Shirtdress
Ava & Viv
I’m all about shirtdresses for summer, and this blue and white striped frock from Ava & Viv is feminine, versatile and will make you look so stylish with little to no effort. It’s crafted from a midweight linen-rayon blend fabric and incorporates many of the traditional elements you’ll find in a shirtdress, including a collard neckline, button-down front and rolled-cuff sleeves, plus extra details that vamp up the comfort level. For instance, you’ll find an elasticated waistband along the back off the dress, and modern, fun prints and colors, of course.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XXL to 4X
8. Target Stone Cluster Linear Earrings
Target
A few weeks ago, I was gearing up for a black-tie event—something I’d never expect to have on my calendar—and I ran into the dilemma of not having any fancy jewelry to wear, so you already know that these affordable stone cluster earrings are in my cart. I love how their linear design drapes dramatically down the lobe, adding a hint of glamour without taking away the spotlight from a gown. Many buyers also say that they’re incredibly lightweight, so they won’t weigh you down or make your ears feel sore by the end of the night. Best of all? They looks luxuriously expensive. I bet you’ll be bombarded with compliments the next time you wear them.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: one size
9. Wild Fable Linen Suiting Tube Top
Wild Fable
“Vests are so on trend this season, and I've been looking at several” admits a Target customer. “However, I'm really into tube tops this year, so as soon as I saw this, I had to have it. When I opened the listing and saw that it is a nice linen blend—my favorite fabric for summer—I knew I really had to have it. I purchased my usual size, and the fit is good…it is so soft and too cute.” It even has a smocked panel at the back that’ll stretch and give with your body for a comfy all-day wear. Don it with some matching trousers for a tailored and smart look, but don’t be afraid to mix-and-match with other pieces in your closet, such as a silk maxi skirt, denim jorts or a classic pair of jeans.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XXS to 4X
10. Universal Thread Caning Natural Tote Handbag
Universal Thread
Like Ken, my job is beach this summer, so I’m in need of a “work” tote to do my job (aka, hold my sunscreens, beach reads, change of clothes, towel, snacks…you know the drill). This caning handbag with a black faux-leather lining is everything. The open top structure makes it a breeze to see and get to your belongings, and it comes with sturdy double handles that I already know will come in handy when I have to juggle a million and one things back to the car.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: one size
11. A New Day Linen Button-Down Camp Shirt
A New Day
I don’t know about you, but this linen button-down looks like it could be from Aritzia, Quince or Jenni Kayne, but has a price point that is almost too good to be true. If you’re a laid-back type of person who enjoys a minimalist assortment of clothes, then this short-sleeve shirt is made for you. It’s lightweight and designed with comfort in mind. It falls just above the widest part of your hips, so you can totally tuck it into your jeans or pants if you want.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to 4X
12. All in Motion Knit Halter Active Woven Dress
All in Motion
Target absolutely crushed two of the biggest trends of the moment with this activewear dress: tenniscore and butter yellow. It’s sporty, it’s relaxed, it’s cool, it’s everything. “This dress is super cute and flattering,” says one buyer. “I really like the shorts that are built in; they keep your thighs from rubbing and make the dress extra comfy but also provide a slimming effect.” Those shorts even boast a hidden pocket, too, and moisture-wicking, quick-drying technology as well as UPF protection. Everything you need to crush that set (and look good doing it).
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to 4X
13. Universal Thread High-Rise Wide-Leg Jeans
Universal Thread
Ahh, summer jeans that are loose around the legs, versatile and in a light wash blue. They’re made from a stretchy cotton denim fabric that will stretch over time yet will retain its shape and still smooth your stomach area. Target reviewer Gwen D. notes, “These jeans are AMAZING! They make me feel snatched and they have a comfortable stretch to them but don’t fall! I also love that they are long! I sized down a little which worked well since they are so stretchy.”
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 00 to 30
14. A New Day Linen Midi Shirtdress
A New Day
Here’s another midi shirtdress to wear on repeat. It’s casual and oh-so flattering with its classic, collared neckline and cinched waistband. “This is my favorite dress that I own currently,” says one buyer. “It is comfy and so versatile. It’s one of those you throw on when you don’t have time think about an outfit.” And that, my friends, is exactly the type of summer clothing I’m solely investing in. Easy, effortless and darn cute.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to 4X
15. A New Day Mini Straw Embellished Bucket Bag
A New Day
Fashion editor Abby Hepworth recently reported that the bucket bag is another must-have summer handbag you’ll likely see everywhere. This one has a collapsible design with a main fabricated compartment and drawstring closure to keep everything from falling out, and the most adorable decorative braided handle and natural beige woven straw construction adorned with faux pearl embellishments. I think it may just be your new going-out bag.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: one size
16. Ava & Viv Linen Cropped Tank Top and Maxi Skirt
Ava & Viv
Summer is for the matching set. Case in point: this stylish crop tank top and maxi skirt co-ord set from Ava & Viv. The top has thick straps and a chic square neck that’ll look great and feel comfortable on people with big boobs, and the fuller skirt is just right on the nose with what’s trending. The best part? You can mix and match both the top and the bottoms with other pieces from your wardrobe, be it jeans, shorts, a baby tee or what have you. (And yes, those are pockets you see.)
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XXS to 4X
17. A New Day Wide-Leg Linen Pull-On Pants
A New Day
Linen pants are a no-brainer come summer, and I like that these won’t break the bank and they’re cute as a button. They’re the type of pants that I want to throw on every morning because I know 1) they’re effortlessly chic and 2) they’re cooling, thanks to that linen fabric. One reviewer writes, “These are so soft, comfortable, flattering, easy and versatile for summer! I love the deep pockets and drawstring waist, [and the] fabric is also very soft.” Tall women will especially appreciate them as they purportedly run *very* long, but the linen will naturally shrink in the dryer, so I would avoid that if you want to retain length. “I am 5’2” and initially they were WAY too long on me, but I intentionally dried them on hot and they shrunk about six inches in length,” the reviewer adds.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to 4X
Target
18. Wild Fable Satin Lace Trim Midi Slip Dress
Wild Fable
Floral, vibrant, silky…what’s not to love? Between the lace trim and tie front, this is giving me everything I need and want out of a summer dress. “What a perfect dress,” gushes a Target customer. “The deep V is wonderful and so cute with the tie in front that you can adjust to change the coverage. I purchased my usual size, and the fit is perfect. I like that it doesn't have a slit for something a little different.” On the flip side, another buyer found that a slit would make it easier to walk in. That being said, it does feature elastic at the back and adjustable straps.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XXS to 4X
19. Universal Thread Plastic Aviator Sunglasses
Universal Thread
ICYDK, aviators are one of the biggest sunglasses trends of the year, so if you don’t already own one (or two, or three), I recommend these retro sunnies. The black frames and brown lenses will look so edgy against most hair colors, but especially against darker hues like copper, mahogany, jet blacks and chestnuts. They’re also coated with a UV protection, so they’re not just all looks.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: one size
20. A New Day Slim Fit Ribbed Tank Top
A New Day
I’m of the mindset that you can never own too many tank tops, and I’m a big fan of a ribbed material and high-neck design such as this one because it’s comfy and offers enough coverage to wear under a blazer for work. I also appreciate how long the length is, as many cropped silhouettes can be difficult to style or wear, especially when you’re bloated during that time of the month. I’m not the only one that’s thinking that, either. One customer says, “Finally, a tank top that's not a crop top. I've been searching for some summer basics and this top is perfect—flattering fit, great length, soft and provides great coverage. I'm large busted and I love that this isn't a V-neck and doesn't have spaghetti straps.”
Fast Facts
- Size Range: XS to 4X
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