The Freedlund caftan.
8 Comfortable Summer Outfits That Are Almost as Good as Wearing Nothing
It’s too hot to wear clothes—but we’ll make an exception for breezy poplin, lightweight linen, and cooling cotton.
Want more M Dash?
Sign up for our weekly newsletter.
Thank you!
The official start of summer is in just over a week, but in many parts of the country, temperatures would indicate that the season is already in full swing. And by that, I mean: It’s already too hot to wear clothes. If you don’t want to convert to nudism (the sunscreen regimen would just be so involved), we have another solution: lightweight, washable fabrics in airy silhouettes designed to provide maximum ventilation on steamy summer days. From double-face linen that offers coverage without bulk to smooth, cooling poplin, we have plenty of summer styles that will keep you looking and feeling as cool as possible. Here are eight lightweight summer outfit ideas that are almost as comfortable as wearing nothing at all.
Comfortable Summer Outfits
A Wearable Breeze
Made from ultra-lightweight cotton poplin, the oversized Addie dress makes minimal contact with your body, allowing for plenty of airflow. It only makes sense that it comes in a color called breeze—a light blue that evokes clear skies and crisp air. Even better? This style, made from 100% cotton, is machine-washable, so you don’t have to worry about sweating. Pair it with white sneakers and statement earrings to complete your look.
Shop similar styles: The Addie dress, Koio sneakers, and Karis earrings.
Chic Style To-Go
On the hottest days, only shorts and a tank top will do. But that doesn’t mean you have to rely on athleisure or ignore your personal style. Instead, choose pieces like the Melody tank—an upgrade from the basic white tee—and Adina shorts, which are simultaneously polished and breathable. Neutral colors make these pieces easy to mix-and-match with the rest of your wardrobe. Come fall, you can trade your shorts for pants and add a jacket for a casual take on suiting. But for now, keep the shorts, slip on some comfortable slides and a chic bucket bag, and head out the door for whatever you have next.
Delightful Neutrals
They say that light colors reflect sunlight and help you keep you cool—and whether or not that’s true, it certainly feels like it is. The pima cotton Paige tank easily tucks into the stretchy Lane skirt for a casual yet elegant look. The Carter slides and Lygia necklace pull the color palette together. Need another layer to combat that aggressive office A/C? Add the Anna jacket, which is like a denim jacket—but better.
The Paige tank, Lane skirt, Carter slides, and Lygia necklace.
The Lasha top, Madelyn pants, Rowan flats, and Lyssa earrings.
An SPF Alternative
Forgot your sunscreen? Reach for pieces that offer full coverage without weighing you down, like the beautifully pleated Lasha top and an easy elastic-waist pant like the Madelyn. The comfortable Rowan flats in turmeric add a delicious sprinkle of color to your summer wardrobe. If you love this outfit and want to keep wearing it into fall, just add a structured blazer like the Dolly in gingham linen. (Want more pattern-pairing ideas? Check out our guide to creative pattern combos that don’t clash.)
The Beach House Uniform
Nothing says “I have a beach house” like a breezy linen caftan, which can double as a beach cover-up and a chic maxi dress. The best part? You don’t actually have to have a beach house to pull it off. Use the adjustable drawstring to find your ideal fit, then slip into your on-trend slide sandals, grab your go-to tote, and bring the vacation energy to you.
The Chiara top, Marijane pants, Irene slingbacks, and Claressa earrings.
Covered But Cool
It may be hotter than an otter, but you can still wear a full-coverage outfit if you want to. The Chiara top and Marijane pants are fully breathable, and their relaxed silhouettes help keep you ventilated. Finish the outfit with sky-blue slingbacks and hoop earrings. For a similar but more casual look, wear your Marijane pants with the striped Owen T-shirt and sky-blue Carter slides.
The Summer Friday Outfit
Pair a button-down shirt like the Mila with the Sasha shorts to create a Summer Friday in outfit form: business on top, vacation on the bottom. Wear it for casual Fridays, brunch dates, or errands. Add eye-catching earrings for a unique touch. Worried you’ll get too hot in long sleeves? Wear the Mila shirt over the Paige tank like a jacket so you have the option of taking it off.
The Mila shirt, Sasha shorts, and Koio sneakers.
The Wren top, Orchard skirt, and Ella sandals.
Floaty Florals
When you need to show up to an outdoor summer party without turning into a puddle, reach for the linen Wren top and the silk Orchard skirt. Both pieces are made from natural materials, which makes them extra breathable. Plus, they’re machine-washable. The Ella sandals and bold earrings take the outfit to the next level, but you could also sub in sneakers or slides for more casual occasions.
