Best Summer Outfit Ideas

Summer dressing is mostly about light fabrics, easy shapes and a bit of color. Below are the pieces and trends worth wearing, grouped by mood: everyday basics, edgy, classic and cute.

Everyday summer pieces

Neutral co-ords

A matching set in neutral tones looks put together with no thinking. Try a small top with a skirt or pants in the same shade, ideally with a ruched or textured detail.

Camis and spaghetti straps

A cami is a slightly dressier take on the spaghetti-strap top, and it works as outerwear in the heat. It goes with skirts, shorts and tailored pants, so wear it casually or for a dressy evening.

Cut-outs

Cut-out tops and dresses have been on runways and all over social media. If you're trying the trend, start with one detail, such as a cut-out on a crop top or dress.

Crop tops with sleeves

Crop tops are a summer staple. The version with sleeves, which cover the arms, is a newer take that gives you more coverage without losing the cropped shape.

Bright and bold color

Summer is the season for strong color. Bright yellow and florals are easy places to start, and a printed floral dress brings it all in one piece.

Graphic prints

Graphic tees never fully go out of style, and brands and influencers keep pushing new prints. Wear one with shorts, a skirt or tailored pants.

Satin loungewear

Silk feels cool on skin, and a silk dress or lounge set is light enough to wear all day. Satin woven from polyester holds more heat than silk, so save it for a cooler evening. Pick a set you can wear out as well as at home.

Checked pants

Checkered pants, a pattern of small squares in two colors, borrow from Korean fashion. Wear them with a plain top so the print is the focus.

Oversized tees

A loose, boxy tee with shorts is hard to beat for comfort, and men and women both wear them. A graphic one in pastels or black and white looks relaxed and current.

Summer dresses

Simple and comfortable, a summer dress needs only your choice of color and print plus a few accessories. If you're building a summer wardrobe, start with two or three.

Edgy summer looks

Edgy style is about mixing pieces that break the usual rules. These items get you there.

Black leather pants or leggings

Leather bottoms are a wardrobe staple that can be dressed up or down. Keep the top light in summer, and pick a breathable fit.

Studs, grommets and chains

Studded belts, bags and jackets add a punk edge. Use them as accents, one or two at a time.

Ripped denim

A pair of vintage-style distressed jeans or shorts makes an easy base for an edgy outfit.

Classic summer looks

Classic means simple, elegant pieces in natural colors that never go out of style.

Little black dress

A black dress works for dates, nights out and formal events. Change the shoes and jewelry to change the mood.

White shirt dress

A white shirt dress is crisp, easy to style and good for casual days. It's also a useful piece to throw on over a swimsuit.

Well-fitted jeans

A good pair of blue jeans in the cut you like works from day to night. Fit matters more than the brand.

Cute summer trends

These details add a girly, playful feel.

Crochet

Crochet tops, dresses and bags give summer outfits a handmade, soft look. A crochet piece with plain basics keeps it from being too much.

Bigger cut-outs

A dress with a larger cut-out is a more dramatic version of the trend above.

Sheer dresses and tops

Sheer fabrics are popular for their light, girly feel. Wear a slip or bralette underneath, depending on how see-through the piece is.

Try a few things and see what feels like you. Style should be fun, not a chore.