As much as we'd like to spend the entirety of June in a bathing suit, prior commitments (work, weddings, barbecues) require us to actually get dressed every day. But when a bikini or one-piece feels like the only viable option in terms of dressing for boiling temperatures and high levels of humidity, where does one turn? A capsule collection of sundresses, loose-fitting (and super-thin) T-shirts, and other breathable items that aren't just cute, but practical too.
Here's hoping that the weather will soon take a turn towards hot, hot, hot again so a wardrobe to match is imperative. Putting a fool-proof look together while also combatting the sweat and stick outside can be a challenge, though — and that's where these Instagram-approved outfits come in. From work-ready ensembles and weekend uniforms to special occasion and night-out goods, the pairings ahead are all the inspiration you need for that changing season wardrobe refresh.
With a calendar full of summer events, your tired old party dress can feel a little passé. Get creative with a silky suit set — particularly one that features a bold colour or print (or both!).
ASOS suit.
Photo via @asos_debbie.
Or, for an even lower-maintenance look, try a fail-safe T-shirt and floral dress combination.
Photo via @candela______.
Weekend uniforms should look cool and require minimal thought or effort. A worn-in tee, mini skirt, and slip-on shoes does just the trick.
Vintage T-shirt, & Other Stories skirt, Scotch & Soda shoes, Rianna + Nina bag.
Photo via @cloudy_z.
We're still into last season's pyjama suit trend but update the look for summer with a brightly-coloured set and some equally-as-fun wedges.
Rochas top and pants, Roger Vivier shoes.
Photo via @desertmannequin.
Give new life to the off-the-shoulder top you can't stop wearing by layering it under dungarees or a pinafore.
Zara shirt, ASOS jumper, Topshop shoes.
Photo via @double3xposure.
We get it. Some people are just anti-shorts and that's totally fine. If you're going to stick to jeans or trousers all summer long, a pair that's loose in silhouette and thin in fabric (like these wide-legged boyfriend jeans) is key.
MM6 Maison Margiela pants, Coach shoes, vintage bag.
Photo via @felicityasargent.
A throw-on-and-go kaftan-style frock is essential — and takes you from day-to-night, weekday-to-weekend, and more.
Natasha Zinko dress, Mark Cross bag.
Photo via @gogoluxe.
If you want to wear all-white but don't want to commit 100%, bold accessories can help break things up, but still look crisp.
Dries Van Noten sunglasses, H&M top, Jesse Kamm pants, Cult Gaia bag, Marais shoes.
Photo via @haleboyd.
Planning a night on the town? Try a vintage-inspired ruffle dress that feels unexpected in a sea of LBDs.
Topshop dress, Urban Outfitters shoes.
Photo via @jeskaalice.
Make your favourite cut-out piece work appropriate by layering it over a T-shirt or knitwear.
NastyGal dress, Converse shoes.
Photo via @julianasalazar.
When life gives you lemons, pull a Beyoncé and go full-on lemonade.
Tata Naka dress, Walter Steiger shoes.
Photo via @jxxsy.
We're all for mix 'n' match and the more patterns, the better.
Lisa Folawiyo Studio top and skirt, Louis Vuitton shoes.
Photo via @lisafolawiyo.
If slip dresses feel too revealing, try layering a long-lined button-up as a lightweight jacket. It looks just as polished, but doesn't leave you overexposed.
Calvin Klein dress, Rosie Assoulin top, Trademark shoes.
Photo via @manrepeller.
Bored of jeans? Go on and give culottes a go...
Photo via @maria_bernad.
A below-the-knee length tunic + frayed hem jeans + neutral grandma heels = A flawless outfit equation.
Photo via @oroma.elewa.
Toughen up an off-the-shoulder silhouette with bold ankle boots.
For Chava by Panya dress.
Photo via @ploychava.
Chilly days are inevitable, and that's where a thin jacket comes in: Bombers add an element of cool to any look, from a dressed-up jumpsuit and heels to classic jeans and a tee.
Topshop jacket, pants, and shoes.
Photo via @topshop.
Susie strikes again with plaid on plaid.
AF Agger-Flachs dress.
Photo via @susiebubble.
The upgraded way to do jeans and a tee. #NailedIt.
Photo via @thefrankieshop.
Dress down an ultra-feminine dress with some skater shoes and lots of attitude.
Stella McCartney dress, Vans shoes, Louis Vuitton bag, SUPER by RETROSUPERFUTURE sunglasses.
Photo via @valentinasiragusa.
All black everything doesn't have to be boring. These Chanel booties are top of our wish list.
Bleach shirt, Chanel shoes, Comme des Garcons bag, Ray-Ban sunglasses.
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