Dress + sneakers + sunglasses = done.
Personally, I loathe standing in front of the mirror on a 90-degree day, trying on shirt after shirt, only to end up with a sweaty back (TMI?) and no cute outfit to leave the apartment in. Summer dressing should be easy! This season, I've vowed to change my hot-weather wardrobe habits. My new rule? Wear outfits that require just three pieces of clothing or less. The simplified process means I won't overthink my look (dress and sneakers? Done!), but I'm not sacrificing style either, thanks to some street style inspiration. To prove it really can be done, I've crafted seven sunshine-and-rosé-ready outfits I plan to rotate weekly, below. Join me?
The "what do I wear to work?" dilemma is too real. Cut down the time you spend in front of the mirror by always grabbing these three items: a striped button-down shirt, a black skirt, and sock boots. The leather skirt with its classic silhouette and sturdy material is key to crafting a polished look for the office. Boots add that essential fashion-girl touch. Although, you can replace the shoes with flats or heels if your ankles are just too damn sweaty.
Shop similar pieces: 1. A.P.C. poplin shirt, $220; 2. Zara leather skirt, $40; 3. Steve Madden bootie, $100
A T-shirt is wearable year-round, but it’s an especially versatile piece come summer. Instead of tucking your favorite black tee into the same pair of blue jeans, kick up the sophistication by styling it with cotton or silky wide-leg trousers. Go for bottoms with a high-waisted cut to create the illusion of longer legs. And for a real bump in height, slip on some red heels. That pop of color takes the outfit from fine to fabulous.
Shop similar pieces: 1. Michael Starsblack t-shirt, $58; 2. Diane von Furstenberg trousers, $243; 3. Barneys New York sandals, $295
When the temperatures hit 85-degrees or higher, it's time to give your jeans a break (sorry, we still love you, denim!). Instead, opt for bottoms in more breathable fabrics, like printed cotton pants or linen trousers. Pair them with your favorite graphic T-shirt for that quintessential street style outfit. Complete the look with this season’s It shoe—the mule—and be on your fashionable way to work, brunch, and beyond.
Shop similar pieces: 1. Maggie Marilyn t-shirt, $155; 2. Rebecca Taylor floral pants, $140; 3. M. Gemi mule, $248
A dress and sneakers: The simple two-piece outfit I swear by for oppressively hot days. A dress in a feminine print, like florals, gives off extra summertime vibes. And white dad sneakers are the I-don't-have-to-think-about-anything choice for effortless style. Worried about catching a chill as the AC blasts? Toss a colorful blazer over your shoulders. This whole look can be thrown together in under five minutes, which gives you plenty of time to make it to drinks with friends before happy hour ends.
Shop similar pieces: 1. BP floral maxi dress, $59; 2. Leith blazer, $79; 3. Jeffrey Campbell sneakers, $145
The jumpsuit is a close second to the dress and sneakers look when it comes to easiest outfit ever. This season, you'll find plenty of utilitarian styles in denim and khaki for a relaxed approach to dressing. If you're feeling bold, unzip this jumpsuit to show off a white bralette or crop top. A cool mule and classic designer bag add the finishing touches to this A+ street style ensemble.
Shop similar pieces: 1. Topshop denim jumpsuit, $110; 2. Saint Laurent crossbody bag, $1,750; 3. Dear Frances mule, $475
Consider denim shorts a white canvas on which you can build—and we suggest you layer on a sporty top and funky footwear. Think like a stylist and select shirts with an interesting color or cutout designs—or both!—and make that the focal point of your ensemble. As for footwear, I love a boot in lieu of sneakers or sandals to switch things up.
Shop similar pieces: 1. Adidas strip crop tee, $35; 2. Treasure and Bond bootie, $110; 3. AGolde denim shorts, $128
Looking for a cute weekend outfit to wear to the park or out to drinks? This tiny crop top, breezy skirt, and sandals look is the epitome of a relaxed ensemble. It says "I'm put together, but also totally not worried about anything." Plus, you can easily pack this three-piece outfit into a suitcase for all your warm-weather vacations.
Shop similar pieces: 1. Orseund Iris cropped tank, $195; 2. Faithfull the Brand midi skirt, $149; 3. Joseph sandals, $525
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