I’ve been thinking about wardrobe staples for summer -- those simple pieces that we return to again and again, such as a pair of jeans, a cotton dress, a classic pullover sweater and the ultimate summer staple: a white T-shirt. There’s something sharp about a pop of white paired with denim or white on white.     Whether boat-neck, crew neck, V-neck, boxy, or crop, the white T-shirt goes with everything and can be dressed up with the right accessories, such as a silk scarf or a strand of pearls. Vogue editors say that the white T-shirt “works overtime.” 

    But there’s no need to stop with white. Stripe tees are trending for summer and how about some color? Red, navy, yellow. Pack a stack for your summer travel adventures and enjoy an array of easy and stylish looks. 

    Another summer staple is, of course, a good book. For that long flight, a cruise, a picnic, or at home by the pool, an absorbing story is a favorite summer pleasure and one of my suggestions is “Granny Takes A Trip: High Fashion and High Times at the Wildest Rock ‘n’ Roll Boutique” (White Rabbit), by British journalist Paul Gorman. 

    Once upon a time in 1966 London, there were three friends: John Pearse, Nigel Waymouth, and Sheila Cohen. Waymouth and Cohen were living together and Cohen’s extensive antique (Victorian to 1930s) clothing collection had gotten so out of hand – filling up their flat from floor to ceiling – they decided to open a shop on King’s Road in Chelsea. Pierce, who had a background in tailoring, joined them and the trio named their shop “Granny Takes a Trip,” referencing Cohen’s “granny clothing” and the fact that everyone was “tripping” on psychedelic drugs. 

    This compelling read is a journey back to 1960s-70s London; and an introduction to the colorful characters that created stage looks for some of the top rockers of the era, including Mick Jagger and George Harrison. Reading this book is its own trip and one worth taking. But it’s a lengthy journey and I suggest thinking of it as quick getaways – in other words, dip in and out all summer long. 

    There are lots of local events happening this season and one of my favorites is the Renegade Craft Fair coming up Aug. 1 and 2 at the Fort Mason Center Festival Pavilion in San Francisco. 

    Going strong since 2003, Renegade is a juried show featuring over 200 indie artists from around the country selling their wares, including jewelry, clothing, accessories, art pieces, and home decor items. Many of the vendors are local to the Bay Area. This is a great opportunity to support small businesses and find something unique for yourself or think ahead to the holidays. It’s free, it’s fun, and it’s not to be missed. Visit the website for more information at www.renegadecraft.com.

    The Shadelands Ranch Museum in Walnut Creek is hosting their End of Summer Market on Sunday, Aug. 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., 2660 Ygnacio Valley Road. This annual outside event features local vendors selling arts, crafts, antiques, vintage jewelry and clothing, baked goods, and more. There will be museum tours and food trucks. Free parking and admission. What an excellent way to wind down the season. 

    Don those summer staples and go forth in style. 

    Moya Stone is a fashion writer and blogger at www.overdressedforlife.com.