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Memorial Day has come and gone, and with its arrival, we’re ready to dive head first into summer. For those in the city, as temperatures rise, so does our desire for outfits that feel effortless but still deliver on polish. A sleek lineup of wardrobe staples will help you get the job done, with pieces designed to take you from sweltering subway commutes to after-hours outdoor dinners without missing a beat.
Vogue’s Favorite Summer-in-the-City Staples:
- The Sleek Pencil Skirt: Joseph Milano stretch-knit maxi skirt, $645
- The Oversized Blazer: The Frankie Shop Bea crepe blazer, $345
- The Trending Sneaker: Adidas Tokyo sneakers, $90
- The Wrap Sandal: A.Emery Heidi snake-effect leather sandals, $200
- The Woven Basket: J.Crew Malta handwoven straw tote bag, $128
- The Timeless Tote: The Row Marlo tote bag, $5,600
- The Comfy T-Shirt Dress: Cos cotton midi t-shirt dress, $99
- The Sporty Zip-Up: Norba zipped anorak, $210
- The Goes-With-Anything Tank: Éterne ribbed stretch jersey tank, $105
Some of our favorite pieces this season, like fluid satin trousers, minimalist maxi skirts, tailored shorts, and retro-chic capris, are elevated takes on your typical warm-weather staples. A sleek T-shirt dress or slouchy summer suit (worn with flip-flops, of course) make for the kind of unfussy elegance the season demands. The best part? These pieces are endlessly versatile, great for mixing and matching for whatever the city throws your way. Below, shop 11 looks to help you take on the summer in city-worthy style.
Uniform Dressing to Beat the Heat
Let a sleek maxi skirt be the star this summer. Just add a minimalist tank and barely-there flats for an elegant and always-reliable warm-weather pairing.
Classic Americana
You can’t go wrong with straight-leg jeans, a crisp button-down, and suede loafers. It’s a timeless trio that always works.
The Fashion Girls’ Office-Ready Formula
Pair an oversized suit with a simple tee and flip-flops for a perfect balance of corporate polish and nonchalant ease.
POV: Styling Summer Pastels
Satin trousers are the summer staple to know—comfortable, endlessly versatile, and elevated enough to wear to the office. Team a soft pink pair up with a butter yellow top and bright red flats for an unexpected color combo.
Retro Chic With a Touch of Pale Blue
Pair cropped capris with a pleated blouse for a fresh, fashion-forward outfit.
Your Favorite Tee—Now in Dress Form
Consider the T-shirt maxidress your warm-weather MVP. It’s sleek, simple, and super easy to style.
Trench Coats and Midis: Summer’s Favorite Duo
A breezy white dress layered under a lightweight trench and grounded by sneakers makes for an effortless, city-ready combo.
Summer Combos for Inside Temperatures
A tank top, knee-length skirt, and denim jacket make for an excellent A/C-proof outfit formula.
Basics Go Pop
For an off-duty spin, style pleated shorts with a short-sleeve knit and your favorite low-top sneakers in vibrant primary shades.
Now Serving: Sporty Summer
A sporty zip jacket and lightweight trousers make for a laid-back summer pairing with just the right amount of cool.
Black and White, But Make it Evening
For a chic night out, try classic white jeans with a draped blouse and kitten heel.
