9 Simple Summer Outfits That Are Somehow Cool and Comfortable, Too

As someone who tends to put comfort first whenever getting dressed—for any occasion—I’ve found that of all the seasons, dressing comfortably in the summer is probably the most difficult. I blame it on the weather which not only rules out a lot of options due to the potential for overheating, but also tends to limit you in terms of what just looks right for a warm day or night.

The good news, however, is that while it’s admittedly not easy, it’s definitely not impossible either. All it takes is a little research, effort, and the occasional learn-from-your-mistakes moment. And, since I’ve been through all of the above (and more), I figured that today I’d share some of the outfit ideas I think are not just comfortable for the season at hand, but are actually cool, too. To see, read about, and shop all nine of the looks, just keep scrolling. 

1. Midi Dress + Sandals

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(Image credit: @aimeesong)

This timeless duo will never fail you.

2. Button-Down + Tank + Shorts

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(Image credit: @sasha.mei)

As you'll continue to see throughout this post, an oversized button-down is the perfect light layer for throwing on and taking off in summer.

3. Scarf Top + Jeans + Sneakers

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(Image credit: @claire_most)

I'm so glad the easy (and breezy) scarf top trend re-emerged this season.

4. Tank + Tennis Skirt + Sneakers

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(Image credit: @laurencrowe88)

Tennis-inspired style doesn't just look cool, it's conveniently comfortable, too.

5. Mini Dress + Mules

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(Image credit: @emmanuellek_)

Low-heeled mules are the ideal shoe to complement a mini silhouette.

6. Tank + Tailored Shorts + Sandals

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(Image credit: @slipintostyle)

Dress down your tailored shorts by styling them with a one-shoulder tank and strappy sandals.

7. Tank + Trousers + Slides

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(Image credit: @fakerstrom)

If non-stretchy pants are still in your repertoire—no judgment if they're not—pair them with a ribbed tank and simple slides for a comfortable-yet-polished look.

8. Mini Dress + Button-Down + Sandals

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(Image credit: @emmahoareau)

An around-the-waist button-down doesn't just look cute. It also gives you a back-up layer in case temperatures drop throughout the day.

9. Button-Down + Tank + Jeans

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(Image credit: @deborabrosa)

Last, but not least, we're ending with a look you'll not just want to wear now, but well into the fall season, too.

Next, everything worth buying from the best summer sales right now.

Editor-at-Large

Since starting as an intern back in 2013, Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour has held several roles here at Who What Wear, and she is currently Editor-at-Large. It was a less expected route, seeing as she was graduating from business school at USC when this all began, but it has turned out to be the best one for her. Fast-forward to 2020, and she's moved to NYC from her hometown of Beverly Hills and spends her workdays a little differently from when she was an intern starting out. Currently, she focuses on a weekly mélange of shopping content. As far as her personal style goes, she's largely drawn to classic pieces and neutral basics but will always make an exception for something colorful, printed, or bejeweled as long as it's deemed worthy enough. After all, the only thing she loves more than a good party is dressing up for one. On weekdays, she can usually be found at home eating something delicious for dinner and trying to force her husband to watch 90 Day Fiancé.