During summer, you always want to look good, but heat waves don’t care about your style goals. And when the temperature climbs past 30, all anyone really wants is not to sweat through their clothes. But it is possible to feel fresh and cute without living in your swimmers or that one linen dress you’ve worn to death. Let’s talk about options. Here are some real outfits for real summer days.
The Classic Brunch Look
Brunches are special occasions for many. There’s just something about gathering with your people and enjoying an early afternoon chat session. The trick to enjoying a brunch day is balancing effortlessness with actual comfort. A light cotton dress with a structured neckline will keep you cool without looking like you’re off to the markets.
Add oversized sunglasses because they’re super trendy this summer, comfy sandals, and maybe a slightly messy low bun so you’re not constantly readjusting your hair. If the cafe is aggressively air-conditioned, bring a thin cropped cardigan to throw over your shoulders. It’s simple, but it works.
Easy Breezy Jumpsuits (With Pockets, Obviously)
Look, some people will tell you jumpsuits are too annoying for summer because of the bathroom situation. And they’re not wrong. But if you find the right one with soft fabric, easy zip or buttons, and wide legs, it becomes your go-to. You don’t have to match anything; it covers all the bits you want covered, and it lets you move like a normal human instead of someone adjusting a strap every two minutes.
Plus, they look like an effort. People always compliment jumpsuits. Something about them screams “fashion person”, even if you only have one floral long-sleeved jumpsuit with a wide leg in your arsenal.
Beach Day, But Make It Chic
A beach outfit needs to be practical. If you worry only about style, you’ll soon realise that spending time at the beach can make even the best of outfit combos look dirty and, well, wet. But that doesn’t mean throwing style out the window.
Start with a bikini or one-piece that makes you feel confident. Over that, a sheer oversized shirt is a lifesaver. It works as a cover-up, a towel, a sun-shield and an emergency dress for the servo run. Pair that with some breathable linen shorts and you’re golden. Just remember, your slides should be beach-friendly and not leather. The salt water is cruel.
Co-Ord Sets That Make You Look Organised
Matching sets are honestly a godsend. You throw on two pieces that were made to go together, and boom, you suddenly look like a very composed adult. Even if you’ve only had iced coffee and a handful of almonds today.
A boxy cropped top with matching wide-leg shorts? Perfection. Or you could go for soft linen blend sets with slightly oversized shirts and elastic waistbands. They give you room to breathe, but still look like you planned your outfit the night before. Which we both know you didn’t.
Oversized Shirts That Do Everything
There’s always that one shirt. The one you chuck on over swimmers. The one you wear open with a bralette and denim cut-offs. The one that saves your shoulders from the sun and doubles as a nap blanket at the beach. It’s probably a little wrinkled and worn in by now, and that’s what makes it good.
The right oversized shirt makes you feel like you’ve got things under control, even when your hair’s doing its own thing and your SPF ran into your eyes. Cotton or light linen, maybe even men’s sizing. Just don’t tuck it in too neatly, and let it hang a bit. Make it relaxed. You’re not at work.
The Bias Skirt and Tank Combo
This combo is a bit of a sleeper hit. It doesn’t scream summer outfit idea at first, but the second you wear it, you get it. We’re talking about a slinky skirt that doesn’t cling in the wrong places, paired with a basic tank that’s got a bit of shape. Tuck it in or don’t, but if you throw on chunky sandals or a platform slide, the whole thing becomes very 2025 with a ‘90s twist.
It’s also weirdly good for that “maybe drinks, maybe dinner, maybe just walking around aimlessly” kind of day. You look like you’re going somewhere nice, even if you’re not.
When in Doubt: Denim Shorts and Literally Anything
Some days, you just want to wear shorts. And that’s fine. Grab the denim ones that are soft enough to sit down in without regret, and pair them with a graphic tee, a loose blouse, or a knitted tank. Tuck it in, half tuck, tie it up. Whatever feels best on that weirdly bloated afternoon after gelato.
Just make sure they’re not suffocating your thighs. Tight shorts in summer are a trap. Loose is better. You’ll thank yourself.
Conclusion
Summer is the best season to explore and find your unique style. But it’s also the best time to go back to the basics. So go for silhouettes that flatter, but still choose clothes that breathe. And if all else fails, cold water, lip balm and a good outfit can take you further than you’d think.
