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As the lazy, hazy days of summer roll out, those facing scorching heat waves may also be fronting the never-ending question of how to look chic in the heat. This dilemma can be even more puzzling for those sweating it out in the city, whether that be abroad on a near future vacation or at home on the daily commute, where air conditioning is not always available and the steamy pavement makes everything ten times hotter. Luckily, a few of our favorite A-listers have been stepping out in style during the most recent uptick in temperatures, giving us plenty of summer-in-the city outfit inspiration to replicate in full force—no thought required.
Vogue’s List of Celeb-Approved Summer Pieces:
- The Candy-Coated Handbag: Staud Timmy beaded shoulder bag, $350
- The Long Denim Shorts: Levi’s 501 Original fit mid-thigh shorts, $70
- The Designer Flip-Flops: The Row Dune flip-flops, $690
- The Bohemian Blouse: Dôen Nera top, $198
- The Raffia Tote Bag: Hat Attack Jane tote, $198
- The Crisp White Shirtdress: Simkhai Jazz pleated cotton midi shirt dress, $475
- The Must-Have Sunnies: Ray Ban 54mm Wayfarer sunglasses, $191
- The Playful Charm Necklace: Chan Luu Na Pali leather necklace, $145
- The Major Fringe Moment: Khaite Paley dress, $1,788
- The Flare Jean: Frame Le Slim Palazzo jeans, $268
- The Pop of Blue: Gucci GG Marmont medium shoulder bag, $2,850
These easy, summer outfit formulas are guaranteed to keep you cool—in more ways than one. Not only are they effortlessly stylish, they’re also built around foundational silhouettes in lightweight fabrics, such as cotton poplin and linen, to reach for over and over again to conquer the rising temps. Take for instance Elle Fanning’s crisp, white shirtdress, styled with nautical-inspired extras, or Zoë Kravitz’s simple slip mini, paired effortlessly with suede slides and a raffia tote bag. Both are a minimalist’s dream and rooted in the best in basics—a move Jennifer Lawrence often makes—as seen here as well, with a recent outfit mashup of a graphic T-shirt, long denim cut-offs, and designer flip-flops (from The Row, naturally).
For those craving a little something spicier, there are maximalist takes in the mix, too. From Gigi Hadid’s candy raver-embellished ensemble with her zesty Havainas, to Daisy Edgar-Jones’s denim-infused spin on the scarf top, finding your summer look is no longer painstakingly problematic. Plus, we’ve got summer date night outfits, like Taylor Swift’s city-coded spin on florals, and easy, wedding guest dressing ideas, such as a fringed moment pulled from Rihanna’s closet, all in the mix.
Below, you’re sure to beat the city heat with these 8 best celeb-inspired summer outfits.
Candy Raver-Coded
Add a bit of whimsy to your summer style with bright accents, just like Gigi Hadid; after all, it is the season to have a bit more fun with all things fashion. Start with a classic, white shift dress (we love this one in seasonally-appropriate linen), then load up on all the baubles. From rainbow beads atop your handbag, to playful anklets and easy flip-flops in a bold hue, you’ll be walking on sunshine in no time.
Summer of Love
When looking to beat the heat, channel a Penny Lane-inspired vibe à la Alexa Chung, whose twist on bohemian favorites feels equal parts “Band-Aides” and city chic. A lacey blouse, breezy wide-leg pants, and ballerina flats, all in monochrome black, are attainable (and sweatproof!) options which most minimalists can stand behind, while a suede, fringed bag adds that subtle, groovy note that feels oh-so Almost Famous.
Cutecore Essentials
Jennifer Lawrence knows how to level up on the best basics, always with her signature, quirky spin. Here, she mixes summer essentials such as a graphic T-shirt and long denim shorts, with effortless ease. By adding designer flip-flops, a statement necklace, and a baseball cap, she reaches style nirvana, with the perfect high-meets-low ensemble, sure to save you on those days you don’t know where to begin.
Simplicity in the City
Zoë Kravitz is always on our style mood board, no matter the season, yet there is something about her summer wardrobe that really captures our attention. Let a vintage-inspired slip dress similar to hers be your launching pad, then accessorize with minimalist-friendly accessories, such as a raffia tote bag, suede slides, tonal sunglasses, and a perfectly worn-in hat. They’re truly all you need to ace a summer-in-the-city look.
Florals–Taylor’s Version
Lean on Taylor Swift’s collection of floral dresses to inspire easy and elegant outfit ideas for those hot summer nights out on the town. Dôen’s simple sundress has all the right details to feel super special, featuring a romantic pattern, fitted waistline, and flowy skirt. Style with barely-there, strappy heeled sandals, an It girl shoulder bag, and layered charm necklaces to really nail the sweet-meets-spicy feel.
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Fringe Benefits
Looking for a little inspiration for that next summer wedding you’re attending? Rihanna nails wedding guest dressing with a fit that works no matter the dress code. A statement, fringed maxi will be your focal point. From there, load up on easy accessories, such as a PVC pump to elongate the leg, subtle jewelry, and classic sunnies (for those sunset cocktail hours, of course).
Crisp and Cool
What’s better than a white, cotton shirtdress on the hottest days of the year? Elle Fanning proves nothing else, with a look that’s positively chic, and thankfully, very easy to replicate. Choose a dress that hits below the knee and beyond, then pepper in accessories that feel on point for the Riviera. A nautical-inspired mini bag, sleek, leather slides, and oval sunglasses offer the pièces de résistance—your ideal finishing touches.
Denim Darling
The dog days of summer call for good denim. Recreate Daisy Edgar-Jones’ impossibly fresh ensemble for all those hot child in the city moments, whether that be an al fresco dinner, or a backyard barbecue. Airy, wide-leg jeans compliment a bandana or scarf top perfectly, while bright white sandals, and a splashy, designer handbag (she is a Gucci girl, after all), add that fashion-forward edge.
