6 Elevated Summer Basics from Gap Factory 

Thank you to Gap Factory for sponsoring the post.

We might have a few weeks before it is “officially” summer, but don’t wait until then to start thinking about your summer basics. The temperatures are rising, and the school year is wrapping up, so in my book, it’s summertime.

And reader favorite brand, Gap Factory, has a fabulous selection of quality casual pieces at affordable prices. And right now, shop their Memorial Day Sale for 50-70% off sitewide! You can also take an extra 15% off your purchase + receive free shipping with code GFSUNNY – details here. 

Jeans and Tee Shirt

By now, you know I am a jeans and t-shirt girl, except I like to mix in elevated pieces. So, instead of a basic white tee, I look for something that wears the same but has extra details.

The Puff Tie-Sleeve T-shirt is exactly the kind of standout piece that adds interest and details while still serving as a basic. And it’s on sale for only $14. I’m wearing the medium.

The puff-sleeve, when paired with their Mid Rise Kick Fit Jeans, not only brings in my waist but also creates a flattering balance. These jeans are designed to enhance your curves and provide a comfortable fit, making them a must-have in your collection.

Don’t sleep on Gap Factory Jeans; they make some of the best quality, affordable denim on the market.

Above, I’m wearing the size 10 in the long length (I’m 5’10), and they hit precisely where you want cropped jeans to land. Available in sizes 27 – 33 in short, regular, and long. 

Perfect Denim Shorts

I’m 44 and still very happily wear shorts. So please ignore any thoughts that you are too old to wear shorts. You’re not too old to wear anything. 

I also live on the East Coast and spend the last half of the summer at the shore, and it gets HOT, so shorts are a no-brainer.

And I have two styling tips.

First, consider wearing a shorter length. As we get older, we often think that if we wear a short, it should hit at the knee, but sometimes, that can make us look frumpy.

I prefer a 4″ – 5″ inseam.

Featured are the 4″ High Rise Denim Utility Shorts in size 10. They fit so well and are only $20. Honestly, that’s all I want to pay for a pair of shorts I’ll wear for a handful of weeks in the summer.

My other trick is that I only wear shorts with a long-sleeve top. Inspired by how French women dress, the epitome of style, they often play with opposites. So, a bold lip and a neutral eye, a long dress with heels, a mini skirt with flats.

Here, shorts with a long-sleeved top. It creates balance and makes the look feel more finished.

So, I am always searching for lightweight top options, and Gap Factory makes some of my favorite affordable linen-blend tops that pair perfectly with shorts.

Above, I’m wearing their Linen-Blend Crewneck Sweater in pink stripe. I adore this. It would look pretty with white shorts or jeans too.

I also ordered their Cropped Linen-Blend Shirt. We’re seeing more and more of these button-downs that hit right at the waist, which is ideal if you like the look of a button-down but don’t want to deal with tucking in.

I wear it buttoned with the sleeves cuffed to make the 3/4 length. You can also wear it open over their Favorite Tank.

Everyday Maxi Dress

Finally, in the summer, there is nothing better than one-step dressing, which means throwing on a dress and heading out the door.

But, again, we’re going for something a step above basic. I like the quality of their Linen-Blend Splitneck Maxi Dress. This is also a linen blend, so it’s ideal for the heat. It’s lined, has pockets, and is updated with a nipped-in waist and splitneck details, making it a step above a basic tank dress.

I ordered the red, which is also available in white, black, or olive in sizes XS—XXL. I’m wearing the medium. 

Happy Shopping!