Summer Outfit Ideas: 20 Cool, Easy Looks for Hot Days
Summer outfit ideas for men and women: 20 breathable looks for heat, city days, the office and evenings out, with the best fabrics and shoes for hot weather.
By Ayoub Farid · · 2 min read
The best summer outfits are about fabric first, style second. Breathable materials and relaxed fits keep you cool; a few smart choices keep you looking put together when it's 32°C.
Fabrics that keep you cool
- Linen and linen blends: breathe well, wrinkle (embrace it).
- Cotton poplin and seersucker: crisp and airy.
- Lightweight knits (cotton, not wool) for evenings.
- Avoid heavy polyester in the heat; it traps sweat.
Shoes
Leather sandals, espadrilles, loafers without socks (or with invisible socks), canvas sneakers.
10 summer outfits for women
- Linen shirt + linen trousers + flat sandals
- Tank + midi slip skirt + sneakers
- Cotton sundress + straw bag + espadrilles
- White tee + denim shorts + loafers
- Poplin shirt dress + belt + sandals
- Crochet top + wide-leg trousers (see fringe and crochet)
- Knit polo + pleated skirt + ballet flats
- Linen co-ord set + slides
- Oversized shirt over a swimsuit + shorts (beach)
- Silk-look cami + linen trousers + heeled sandals (evening)
10 summer outfits for men
- Linen shirt + beige linen trousers + loafers
- White tee + navy shorts + canvas sneakers
- Knit polo + chinos + suede loafers
- Camp-collar shirt + tailored shorts + sandals
- Seersucker shirt + light jeans + sneakers
- Striped tee + white trousers + espadrilles
- Linen suit without tie (weddings and events)
- Henley + cotton trousers + leather sandals
- Short-sleeve oxford + chinos + loafers (office)
- Tank under an open linen shirt + shorts (beach)
Summer office
Swap wool for cotton or linen-blend trousers, knits for short-sleeve knit polos, and boots for loafers. See business casual for men and business casual for women.
Light colors, smart combos
White, cream, sand, pale blue and olive all work together and reflect heat. A summer capsule wardrobe of 15 pieces covers most of the season.
Sun and sweat tips
Light colors reflect heat, loose fits let air move, and a hat and sunglasses protect you outdoors. Carry a light shirt for air-conditioned spaces.
Try it with your own closet
Wardrobely builds summer outfits from what you own, and the AI stylist can answer "33 degrees, outdoor lunch, what do I wear?" Traveling? Pair this with vacation outfits.
Frequently asked questions
What should I wear when it's very hot?
Loose, breathable fabrics like linen and cotton in light colors, with sandals, loafers or canvas sneakers.
Is linen good for summer?
Yes. Linen is one of the most breathable fabrics. It wrinkles easily, which is part of its relaxed look.
How can men dress well in summer?
Linen or camp-collar shirts, knit polos, chinos or tailored shorts and loafers or clean sneakers.