Say hello to rooftop happy hours and weekend trips to the shore; summer has officially arrived. Though many of us look forward to basking under the sun, we tend to spend more time ruminating on what to wear before stepping outside. Sultry temperatures place several limitations on the fabrics we can wear and the number of garments we can layer, so it’s understandable that you might find dressing for warm weather tricky, to say the least. If you find yourself defaulting to your go-to outfit formulas, you’re not alone.
Luckily, one of the best ways to reignite your passion for summer dressing is to get newly inspired. We’ve gone ahead and perused countless street style photos from around the globe. Ahead, you’ll find a curated collection of cute summer outfits to incorporate into your own wardrobe during this warm-weather season. We’ve got an outfit for every occasion, whether you’re grabbing brunch with friends, traveling to your summer getaway, or running errands in the heat. And we’ve also taken note of the best summer 2023 fashion trends as well, including crochet pieces to slip skirts. Scroll on to start shopping, stat.
Coastal Chic
If you want to become a pro at serving coastal chic, invest in breathable linens, summery shades like white and cream, and flowy fabrics. For this specific look—which resembles Sofia Richie’s coveted French Riviera style— you’ll need simple elements like a white linen set, a soft sweater to throw over your shoulders, and accessories to match.
Pretty in Pink
Editors everywhere have witnessed the “Barbiecore” trend take the fashion industry by storm, and it looks like this vibrant shade of pink is here to stay. After all, this isn’t much of a surprise; embracing colorful shades is a summertime tradition.
Office-Appropriate
Although you might dream of vacationing all summer long, you still have bills to pay, which means you’ll be taking frequent trips into the office. This simple, sophisticated tailored set is ideal for workdays.
A Blazer Set
Many fashion lovers like to pair blazers with lengthy bottoms, but during the warmer months, swapping a long pair of pants for shorts or a skirt offers a cooler alternative.
Crochet Cover-Up
If you’re traveling to the beach this summer, packing a crochet cover-up is essential. I’d suggest pairing this colorful look with a white bikini set and a pair of comfy flip-flops that will carry you through the day. By the time the sun sets and the temperatures drop, you’ll be glad to have something to keep you warm.
Public Pajamas
A simple pajama-inspired set is arguably the easiest summer outfit idea to exist. If you don’t feel like putting a lot of energy into assembling an outfit, you’ll want to have one of these tucked away in your closet.
Understated Luxury
A gorgeous blouse paired with crisp white pants can truly make you look like you belong in a higher tax bracket. Take this outfit for a spin, whether you’re grabbing dinner with friends or walking through the city of your latest travel destination.
A Pop of Green
A principal rule that every fashion editor swears by is that you must own at least one statement piece. I can assure you that a silk green dress paired with hot pink accessories will stand out among the crowd.
The Button-Down Shirt
Button-down shirts have been around for ages, and they’re never going out of style. Why would they? The sharp seam lines and crisp collars exhibit a sense of elegance that is so appealing. To dress it down a bit, I recommend matching this outfit with a pair of white sneakers.
The Shirtdress
Summer is all about shedding clothing, so leave the pants behind. Of course, if you want to jazz things up, add a pair of classy mules.
Hot Girl Athleisure
For those moments when you have to begrudgingly run errands in the heat, you’ll want to throw on something comfortable and easy. That’s when this athleisure ensemble enters the chat; the sweat shorts and tube top combination is unrivaled during busy days.
Summer Corsetry
Since the corset is the main attraction here, additional statement pieces aren’t necessary. Instead, a plain black skirt will suffice.
The Micro Mini
If you were paying attention during Fashion Week last fall, chances are you witnessed the takeover of Miu Miu micro miniskirts—which are very much still en vogue. Mix up the proportions by styling micro-minis with oversized T-shirts.
Baby Blues
I can’t get enough of baby blue this summer, especially in the form of a flowy maxi dress. You can even dress it down during the day with sneakers and up at night with heels.
Easy Neutrals
While vibrant colors certainly dominate summertime fashion, neutrals deserve to shine too. This outfit is functional for a night out on the town or a casual summertime date night.
Double Denim
The denim-on-denim look is such an early 2000s trend. How can anyone forget that Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake’s double-denim look? Well, this trend has definitely made a comeback, but in 2023, we’re opting for denim corsets paired with baggy jeans.
Date Night-Approved
Heading out for a fancy meal with your significant other? Go for a maxi dress with an elegant silhouette.
The Silk Slip
Slip into a silky skirt for a leisurely day in the sun. Satin slip skirts are so versatile, and one of our favorite ways to style this look is with a white tank top.
On the Down-Low
You may have thought the end of low-rise pants had happened years ago, but the style has seemingly resurfaced among the street style set. If you’re wondering how to style low-rise pants during the summer, a scarf or satin top might just be your answer.
Unexpected Necklines
An unexpected neckline immediately transforms any outfit from simple to spellbinding. For a chocolate brown shade like this, beige accessories are your best bet.
Balletcore-Ready
If you’ve ever wondered how to style ballet flats, this formula is your blueprint. You’ll need a cropped cardigan, a pair of flowy white shorts, and of course, your ensemble wouldn’t be complete without a handbag to match.
The Tailored Vest
There are certain pieces of clothing that are worthy of investment, and vests are one of them. During colder months, style them with a long sleeve garment underneath, and when temperatures warm up you can wear them solo. No matter the weather, vests are always there to save your wardrobe.
Proportion Play
The proportions of this outfit aren’t particularly balanced, but that’s what gives it an edge. The sense of contrast—skin-tight biker shorts and a loose poplin top—also makes it stand out.
Black & White
At first glance, this outfit might appear dull, but I’d argue that it’s actually a flattering formula. The black-and-white combination will never go out of style, and its ageless quality is what makes it so special.
Maxed Out
Every summer wardrobe calls for a white maxi dress. And this season, crewneck styles are having quite a moment.
Easy Co-ords
The coordinated look is simultaneously polished and casual. Take this look for example—I love how the sophisticated nature of the top balances the relaxed quality of the cargo pants.
Bohemian Touches
Flyaway tops are becoming increasingly popular, especially when styled with a pair of refined trousers. Since it’s summer, wear a sleeveless alternative to keep you cool.
Summer Brights
Weekend brunches have always been a beloved summertime activity, and aside from the bottomless mimosas and delicious food, dressing up for the occasion is the best part. To really serve a look, style a vibrant dress paired with toned-down accessories.
A Go-To Formula
You know those days when you’d prefer to keep it lowkey, and the thought of piecing together a look is simply a nuisance? If you’re having trouble styling an outfit that doesn’t require a lot of effort, this outfit recipe comes to your rescue: one sleeveless top, wide-leg jeans, and sandals. What more could you need?