Summer is so close you can feel the sun has been pushing its way through the clouds making a regular appearance.

As you get your warm weather wardrobe ready, it’s important to make a list of all the fashion essentials: pastels, skirts, wedges, maxis, bathing suits and some accessories to top it all off.

Of course, this doesn’t mean you need to go on a spending spree for a closet full of new clothes; you need just to opt for versatile items that will keep you looking stylish all summer along.

So with a nod to the spring/summer season of 2014, here are some key clothing and accessory pieces you should be lusting after:

Pastels & sheer dresses

It’s time to start lighting up with pastels and neutrals in elegant combinations of soft hues. Choose your preferred pastel color this season, or add some contrast to your look by pairing pastel pieces with darker colors.

Sheer fabrics are also being seen on the runway. A skirt with sheer panel at the bottom is an easy way to add some sheer to your wardrobe with a boxy crop top for the season. The sheer trends setting the rage include polka dots, blingy and floral.

Nautical & monochrome beachwear

One of the favorite parts of the summer season is hitting the beach; it’s time you bolster it with a few key beachwear essentials to add a punch of freshness to your wardrobe. First things first, you need to make sure you have the right flip-flops or sandals from a brand like archies australia, and then a perfect swimsuit. From high-wasted bikinis to side-cut bikinis, the range this season is massive making sure you’ll find something suitable for your body shape.

The newest swimwear styles include the nautical look along with monochrome. A lashing of white and navy is the key to the former, and you can pair it up with some anchor symbols and rope texture to add interest. For monochrome, go for an iconic white one piece (think Marilyn Monroe) – black and white, together or apart, will always make a statement.

Trench coats

A trench coat or jacket has been a spring/summer essential since long, but 2014 is the year to be investing in a modern take on the outerwear trend – like the sleeveless, structured offering – which is going to update your look in an instant.

Look beyond the sleeveless and you’ll find newer takes on the outerwear this season, from cocooning coats to unexpected fabrics such as suede and rubber. If you’re residing in a locality with early spring, you could layer it over another coat, and for others, it also doubles as a chic dress. Also, practical garnishes including belts, hoods and deep pockets will add interest without requiring you to veer into realms of extra ornamentation.

Retro & sophisticated accessories

Summer is the perfect time to invest in a pair of sunglasses: this is one accessory that can add a significant impact to your wardrobe without costing a fortune. A classic cat-eye piece will add retro sophistication to the overall look.

Retro bucket bugs may not sound trendy, but they’re definitely the ‘it’ of the season. With their space and simplicity, they are perfect to tote around without overdoing your style. Find your favorite pick in knits and leathers to make a statement.