All products featured on Vogue are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
When the weekly forecast predicts temperatures of 90 degrees and above, the thought of wearing anything but an easy summer frock isn’t always the most appealing. But for those who don’t like to wear a dress every day or are sick of all the styles you own (we don’t blame you!), it’s time to find an alternative means of surviving the heat. The solution? Reconsidering wardrobe basics in lightweight, summer-approved options. From linen suiting to open weave knits, to skirts that can tolerate a cool breeze, it’s time to give your tried-and-true dresses a well-deserved break.
Summer Suiting
The shorts suit trend has been a favorite among street style stars and is the smartest way to transition the pantsuit into something suitable for summertime. Matching trouser shorts to your blazer is an easy solution to dressing professionally without overheating, and is a stylish way to be prepared for chilly offices and cold restaurants. The best part? These styles were made with warm weather in mind, using lightweight fabrics like the ultimate summer favorite, linen. Although if you wish to keep to the classic pantsuit silhouette, there are plenty of options that include loose-fitting and lightweight trousers to complete the look.
Know Your Knits
There’s nothing worse than sweating through your clothing. To avoid this, try breathable knits and free yourself from starchy poplins and stiff denim. This assortment of tops, skirts, and pants are not only soft to touch, but comfortable on the body: ideal for those unbearably hot days.
Non-Stick Trousers
For hot and sticky days, avoiding tight and clingy clothing is key. For the pant enthusiast, we recommend wide-leg trousers in lightweight fabrics like linen and silk moiré that are loose down the whole leg. What’s more, they’ll look great with one of the knit tanks above—and even better with a short-sleeve blouse below.
Short and Sweet
If you thought the short-sleeve button up was just for the boys, think again. This take on the classic work shirt is the perfect solution for sweat-free summertime style. With a slightly oversized fit, these buttoned-up shirts can be tucked into shorts, skirts, and trousers for a polished look, or worn open to expose a tank top or bathing suit. Either way, sweet air will flow right through. For a seasonal spin on Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo and Juliet, try one in a colorful print.
Skirt the Issue
Catch a breeze without worrying about having your very own Marilyn Monroe moment on the morning commute. In midi to ankle length, these skirts come complete with wraps and slits to maximize any chance of cool air that comes your way. Plus, these breezy skirts look just as chic with a triangle bikini on top for the beach as they do with a basic T-shirt for weekends in the city.
