Picture this: It’s the middle of a heat wave, and you’re gearing up for a sweaty office commute. You need an outfit that can handle the heat and still pass as work appropriate. When stepping outside feels like entering a sauna, the right summer clothes make all the difference.
Think breezy linen staples, breathable summer tops, and effortless sundresses that channel Euro Summer energy while staying practical enough for everyday wear. Whether you’re heading to work, grabbing lunch al fresco, or powering through errands, a well-curated rotation of warm-weather essentials makes getting dressed in high temps feel refreshingly easy.
There are a few summer items that I always turn to when it’s simply too hot to wear anything else. Easy shorts, dresses, and skirts make up the foundation. Then, supplement with a great tank top, a white blouse, and the perfect pair of flip-flops, and you have a summer wardrobe arsenal that will get you through the sweatiest of days. These staples mix, match, and rewear effortlessly, making them the building blocks of a heat-proof summer uniform.
What to Wear When in 90+ Degree Weather
As a certified sweaty girl, these are the summer clothes I rely on when it’s too hot to think about wearing anything other than easy, breathable tops, bottoms, and dresses.
Non-Denim Shorts
It’s time to retire your old denim cutoffs and make room for breezy alternatives. Non-denim shorts, like tailored trouser styles or pull-on boxers, bring both comfort and sophistication to your warm-weather rotation. Wear a structured pair with a tank and heels for dinner. Or, opt for boxer-style shorts on laid-back days spent running errands or lounging at home.
READ: The Bottoms That Are Replacing Our Denim Shorts This Summer
A Great Basic Tank
Simple, stylish, endlessly wearable—a basic tank is a summer staple in every sense. The perfect tank feels barely there on sweltering days and acts as the perfect canvas for bold accessories or additional layers. Style it with everything from linen trousers to a midi skirt, regardless of your plans or your mood.
A Breezy Dress
The sundress is the ultimate summer staple. Lightweight, fuss-free, and universally flattering, it’s the kind of one-and-done outfit that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum impact. Reach for one in a neutral hue—like crisp white, timeless black, or a rich solid—for a foundation that works for any occasion and pairs seamlessly with your favorite sandals and accessories.
READ: I Scoured the Internet for the Best Summer Dresses Under $100—Here’s What Made the Cut
A White Blouse
A white blouse is the subtle hero of the summer clothes family. Its versatility makes it a no-brainer when it comes to packing for your next getaway and an easy go-to for throwing on in a pinch. Whether it’s a well-thought-out look or a last-minute outfit upgrade, this classic piece always delivers.
An Easy Skirt
If there’s one piece that can instantly elevate your outfit without sacrificing comfort, it’s a skirt. Flowy, feminine, and highly versatile, it’s the kind of wardrobe workhorse that quietly does the most. Pair yours with a lightweight tank or an airy blouse to create a polished look in seconds. It works whether you’re headed to the office or to coffee (iced, please) with friends.
Flip-Flops
If there’s one shoe that earns a permanent spot by the door all summer long, it’s a pair of flip-flops. Whether you prefer leather, jelly, or a classic pair of Havaianas, they work for every scenario, from brunch to beach to a casual dinner out. Not only are they comfortable and endlessly wearable, but they’re so minimal that they will keep your feet from overheating (we’ve all been there).
READ: Flip-Flops Are the Summer Shoe I’m Wearing on Repeat—Here’s How to Style Them
Fashion Hacks for Staying Cool
You can do everything right when it comes to selecting your summer clothes for super hot days, but it doesn’t hurt to have a little extra help. As a fashion editor, these products are my personal tried-and-true for staying cool without sacrificing style. I can wear my favorite skirts and dresses with some Megababe Thigh Rescue or a pair of cooling anti-chafe shorts. Plus, I can stay cool with whole body deo and a chic hand fan.
Jessica Welsh, Senior Fashion & Beauty Editor
Jessica oversees and edits all fashion and beauty content on The Everygirl. She also writes in-depth styling stories, trend reports, capsule wardrobes, and more. She was previously the Commerce Editor for The Everymom, where she oversaw all shopping content on the site and social. She has created editorial content for major brands such as Nordstrom, Old Navy, and Kohl’s.
Tinsley Crisp, Former Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer
Tinsley Crisp was formerly the Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer at The Everygirl and specialized in reporting on the season’s latest trends and hottest products. As a New York City-based stylist, she’s committed to injecting joy into the art of getting dressed and delivering attainable yet aspirational content to our readers.
