8 Summer Outfit Ideas When You Don't Know What To Wear |

by Alina Orozco

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There’s something magical about summer. The sunshine, the longer days, the vibrant energy, and of course, the chance to embrace fun and effortless style. I absolutely love the carefree spirit of the summer months especially when it comes to fashion and style. I know I’m not the only one who has been craving color and a little fun when it comes to summer attire. It’s the perfect season to experiment with bright colors, light fabrics, and relaxed silhouettes.

I’ve put together easy outfit formulas for stylish and comfortable summer outfit ideas that will get you through the rest of the warm months. From breezy maxi dresses to effortlessly cool coastal and chic outfits you can wear on repeat.

8 Summer Outfit Ideas When You Don’t Know What To Wear

What to Wear in Summer

The outfits I’ve rounded up include everything from casual everyday looks to chic evening options, perfect for dinners by the beach or backyard barbecues. You’ll find breathable fabrics like cotton and linen, outfit ideas that revolve around a strong base layer, and clever ways to add color without piling on the heat.

1. The Effortless Maxi Dress Look

You can never go wrong with a pretty summer maxi dress. I love a floral or solid-colored maxi that flows beautifully with every step. Style it with flat sandals, a straw bag, and dainty layered necklaces. Want to dress it up a bit? Add heels and a clutch for an effortless evening summer outfit.

2. A Coordinating Set

A coordinating set is an outfit already built for you. Matching top and bottom make getting dressed easy. It’s effortless, comfortable and chic. Everything we want to be in the summer. I love investing in a good set for summer to wear as a bathing suit cover up and beyond.

3. The Tank Top & Wide-Leg Linen Pants Look

If you’re looking for summer linen pants outfit ideas, this one’s for you. Start with a neutral base layer like a ribbed tank, and tuck it into high-waisted linen pants. Throw on a straw hat, minimal sandals, and a woven bag for a chic vacation-ready look. It’s coastal excellence and the ultimate summer outfit everyone should have in their closet.

Need more styling ideas?Visit my post on summer linen pants outfit ideas.

4. The Casual Graphic Tee + Boxer Shorts

I love how a graphic tee instantly gives off a cool, effortless vibe. Tuck it into a boxer inspired shorts add white sneakers or sporty sandals and you’re a vibe. Top the look off with layered necklaces and a denim jacket (if you’re heading into the evening or someplace air-conditioned). This combo is comfy, stylish, and perfect for staying cool.

5. On Trend Linen Shorts & Crochet Top

This is such a great trend for summer 2025. A pair of linen shorts, whether you wear them short or a little longer paired with a knit or a crochet top for breathable and fashionable summer style.

6. The Perfect Linen Dress

For ultimate comfort in the summer a linen dress is your best friend. No need to worry about pairing something together, a linen dress creates a moment without you trying. I have a short red linen dress that I wore to a baseball game, date night and lunch this month. It’s versatile and easy and you can rewear it every summer.

7. A Button-Up + Linen Shorts Combo

This look is one of my favorite summer outfits for casual errands or brunch with friends. A short sleeve button up shirt in a breathable cotton or linen blend adds structure to your look while still being breezy. Pair it with tailored linen shorts and comfortable slides. Add a tote bag and simple gold hoops for a polished yet laid-back vibe.

8. The Day-to-Night Set

Matching sets are a major trend for the summer months, and they make getting dressed so easy. Try a cropped short-sleeve top and a matching midi skirt in a breathable fabric. You can wear them together or mix and match with other wardrobe pieces. Add a beaded clutch and a swipe of red lipstick, and you’re ready for a summer dinner out.

Make Your Summer Outfit Ideas Stand Out With Accessories

Accessories such as hats, sunglasses, earrings, necklaces and colorful flats can really add a stylish impact to your summer closet.

Is It Good to Wear Layers of Clothing in Summer?

Let’s talk about layering in the summer. During the hottest months of the year you don’t want to think about adding anything else to your summer outfit. But hear me out. You can wear layers in the summer if you do it smartly. The key is choosing lightweight, breathable fabrics and keeping your layers loose and minimal.

For example, a linen jacket or a short sleeve crochet button up top worn open over a tank can add dimension to your look without making you overheat. These kinds of layers can also help protect your skin from the sun while adding a polished finish to a basic outfit. Plus, they’re easy to remove when the day heats up and throw back on if you’re headed into a chilly air-conditioned space.

The idea is to keep your base layer simple (think: cotton camisole, tank top, or a lightweight dress) and then add a light outer layer only if it serves a purpose, like sun protection, adding texture, or elevating your outfit.

For cooler nights I love adding a premium sweater worn over the shoulders for added warmth and chicness. I also always love a denim jacket.

Looking for ways to style a denim jacket? Here is a recent post on how to style a denim jacket.