I’m a Former Madewell Employee, and I’m Shopping These 10 New Summer Arrivals

I can’t do a closet refresh without a stop at Madewell, especially in summer when the brand rolls out high-quality linen and breezy silhouettes. And its newest drop made me not just want to refresh my wardrobe, but overhaul it completely.

The brand’s summer collection is full of those very pieces that make me come back year after year, including billowing blouses, vintage-inspired sundresses, and flattering denim shorts. But in addition to those staples, I also discovered a number of chic, cool-girl pieces—like floor length slip skirts and leather flip-flops—that look expensive (dare I say reminiscent of The Row?) but don’t break the bank (they’re all under $200).

As a former employee turned obsessee, these are the 10 items I think are worth grabbing from Madewell’s new summer collection, starting at $48.

10 Madewell Summer Staples

• Mixed-Button Ribbed Polo Tank Top, $48
• Micro-Rib Sweater Tee, $60 (Originally $78)
• Pull-On Straight Crop Linen Pants, $74 (Originally $88)
• The Perfect Vintage Jean Short, $78
• Puff-Sleeve A-Line Top, $92
• The Kita Leather Thong Sandal, $98
• Tie-Waist Maxi Slip Skirt, $98
• Embroidered Linen Tank Mini Dress, $108
• Tie-Waist Tiered Midi Dress, $158
• Handwoven Leather Tote, $188

The Perfect Vintage Jean Short

Madewell is one of the few brands I buy denim shorts from—thank you, curvy cut-offs, you have been a game changer—and this season I’m eyeing this Perfect Vintage style. The pair offers the perfect middle between booty shorts and trending bermudas, hitting mid-thigh, and features a light wash and raw hem that feel quintessentially summer. A 40-year-old shopper called these shorts “perfection,” explaining that they offer the perfect length and roomy but not oversized fit. And per a 30-year-old shopper, these are the summer shorts, calling them “comfy…but very polished.”

Puff-Sleeve A-Line Top

This puff-sleeve top is an immediate must-have for a number of reasons. For starters, I will always adore an exaggerated, oversized sleeve in the summer for its practicality (i.e. overheated underarms) but what I love more is that this top doesn’t just stop there. It also features romantic elements, including floral embroidery and a gathered neckline, which together give the blouse a one-of-a-kind, almost vintage feel. This is perfect for the office when paired with jeans or trousers, but I also see myself taking it into the weekend with denim cut-offs and sneakers.

Pull-On Straight Crop Linen Pants

According to one shopper, you “can’t beat the versatility” of these pull-on pants, which feature a breathable linen blend, classic straight leg, and comfortable elastic waistband. The look is elevated—with shoppers calling the fit “tailored” and “flattering”—but has those elements that make it ideal for all-day wear. “They’re so comfortable and breezy, I feel like I’m wearing pajamas that are acceptable [for] work,” raved one fan, deeming these the “perfect summer pants.”

Madewell’s newest collection is so good, I think my entire summer wardrobe might come from it. Shop more of the items I’m eyeing from the drop—including some luxe accessories and summer dresses—below.

Tie-Waist Tiered Midi Dress

The Kita Leather Thong Sandal

Micro-Rib Sweater Tee

Embroidered Linen Tank Mini Dress

Tie-Waist Maxi Slip Skirt

Handwoven Leather Tote

Mixed-Button Ribbed Polo Tank Top