It’s starting to feel like summer and, with the wintry spring we just had, your wardrobe may not be ready for this sudden warm weather. Ideally, you’d have a bit more time to transition winter apparel from your closet to storage, and assess the state of your summer clothes, shop for replacements, etc. But not this year; it’s as if spring was just an idea and like we’re already in the midst of tank tops and shorts season. If you’re feeling a bit behind the summer-style ball, don’t fret. Here are a few simple steps to get your warm-weather wardrobe up and running.

First, get your denim shorts in order. Whether they are of the cutoff variety or pleated and cuffed, jean shorts are a summer staple. Ideally, you should have 2-3 solid pairs to see you through the season. If your denim shorts from last year are threadbare, stained, too small/big, or you no longer love them, it’s time to restock! You can go classic with a Levi’s 501 pair, or more laidback with a softer drawstring version from the Gap. Target’s new Universal Thread collection has a budget-friendly mid-rise pair in a variety of sizes. If you want to play it old school, consider straight-up making your own shorts out of a faded pair of full-length jeans, but be warned that it can easily go so wrong so fast.

Nothing says summer style quite like a summer dress. As you bust out your sunny frocks from last summer, consider how easy they are to wear. You don’t want anything too fussy or uncomfortable. Besides ease, also consider functionality. Is it long enough to keep you covered when you’re bending over, does it have pockets, so you don’t have to lug a huge bag, and it is laundry-friendly? All of these features should be part of any new dress purchase. Since the summer is all about being spontaneous, being outside, and being with friends, when shopping for new dresses consider how you can style them up, down, and all around for almost any and every occasion. I really like the sleeveless swing dresses on sale at Old Navy. Yes, they have pockets and come in several colors, so stock up!

Speaking of not lugging a huge bag, give your big black tote a rest this season and go with a straw or basket bag for the summer. Straw bags are right on trend, so there are a ton of variations to choose from. You can go for a standard tote with leather straps from J.Crew or a crossbody version from Francesca’s or go for a woven beach bag from Macy’s. The key is to keep it light, fun, and not too heavy, as in try not to overpack or weigh yourself down.

Next, invest in walkable sandals. The lace-up gladiators you had last summer may be in fine form, but how comfortable/functional are they really? And, yes, statement-making shoes do add pizazz to your summertime look, but they usually come with a lot of bells, whistles, ties, and even poms-poms that counteract the traditional “throw-on-and-go” vibe of summer style. Leave your fancier footwear in storage this coming season and go for functional options like Toms’ canvas slip-ons, Earth Organics molded-footbed sporty sandal, or try a pair of Crocs’ LiteRide sandals with foam insoles. Yes, these are more expensive than your typical flip-flop, but, when you’re outside enjoying the sunshine, your feet will thank you for this investment. Plus, the “ugly shoe” trend is still going strong and still providing good arch support.

Last, but not least, now is the time to upgrade your swimsuit. If your current suit is over two years old and looks it, i.e., the straps are stretched, the material is pilling, or it’s just not flattering, it’s time to invest in new pieces. Like walkable sandals above, spending a bit more on quality, functional, and flattering swimwear will better serve your summertime needs and style. I’m a big fan of Lands’ End’s online “Swim Solutions” feature where you can modify your search by your functional needs such as, “Maternity Friendly,” “Sun Protection,” “Full Body Slimming” etc. By applying additional search filters like Color, Pattern, and Cup Size, you get a customized results list instead of scrolling through endless options that don’t suit you. Another great online resource is http://www.swimsuitsforall.com, which carries suits in sizes 4-34. If you are unsure of your size, the size chart gives you tips on measuring underbust, overbust, waist, and torso to ensure you order the right fit for you.

Durable shorts, dresses with pockets, a lightweight bag, walkable sandals, and flattering swimwear will not only meet the practical needs of a summertime wardrobe, but they will also provide you with an easy-breezy style. Happy summering!