Summer is almost here, and I, for one, can’t wait for outdoor cafes, strolling through the local arboretum and gardens, and bonfires with friends. The world opens up again when summer starts, and that goes for fashion, too! From flowy white skirts to breezy linen pieces, there are so many fun ways to style summer looks. If you’re getting excited for the warmer months ahead and looking for inspiration, keep reading for 15 chic summer outfits to get you excited for next season’s looks.
1. linen vest + linen pants + ballet flats + sunglasses + crossbody bag
vest | pants | sunglasses | bag | shoes | earrings
Cute summer outfits don’t have to be complicated. When in doubt, start your look with a matching set! This will give you a great foundation to start with and build your outfit around. A matching set has the same effect as a monochromatic color scheme – it will instantly make you look more put together, and like you put more thought into your outfit than you actually did.
Start your summer-ready look with a striped tank and matching pants. I love the slimming effect that the vertical stripes on this set provide. If you’re petite like me, this pattern will also make you appear taller.
Now that we have our base, it’s time to accessorize. Keep your accessories minimal. A pair of ballet flats, gold earrings, and a crossbody leather bag are all you need to round out the ensemble.
2. striped top + white skirt + woven bag + ballet flats + gold earrings
top | skirt | flats | bag | earrings
If you want to style chic outfits this summer, make sure you have included a white midi skirt in your capsule wardrobe. You’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again! From elegant occasions to casual street style, the white skirt adds a touch of sophistication to any look.
On top, try a striped navy and white top for a nautical aesthetic. Then, keep your accessories classy with a pair of cap-toed ballet flats, a woven or straw bag, and gold earrings.
3. striped shirt + white shorts + sunglasses + ballet flats + leather bag
top | shorts | sunglasses | flats | bag
If your personal style is inspired by that of French women, this next look is for you. Enjoy a casual meet-up with friends in this easygoing outfit idea. First, start with a pair of bright white shorts. On top, add a contrasting color, like navy and white stripes in a Breton or Mariner tee. Then, think like a French girl when it comes to your accessories. Timeless ballet flats, a structured crossbody bag, and cat-eye sunglasses are the perfect pieces to complete your look.
4. polo shirt + white skirt + woven bag + ballet flats + sunglasses
top | skirt | flats | bag | sunglasses
Speaking of casual outings, here’s how to dress down the white skirt for a brunch date. On top, try a striped polo shirt. It’s a slightly more casual piece, which makes the white skirt appropriate for everyday wear. This is the ideal balance of a look that’s chic, yet laid-back if you’re just grabbing a cup of coffee and a quick bite to eat.
Continue the pop of red throughout your outfit with a pair of red ballet flats and red sunglasses. Complete your look with a woven bag.
5. white vest top + black shorts + sunglasses + leather bag + ballet flats
vest | shorts | flats | sunglasses | bag
Yes, it is possible to dress up a pair of shorts for casual chic style! First, look for a slightly longer inseam, with a tailored silhouette. These little details will automatically make your shorts look more elevated. Next, choose a pair in a dark wash if you’re going for denim shorts. Or, look for neutral shades. Then, add a sophisticated piece on top. A vest top, inspired by classic workwear, is a great choice.
As for accessories, go for timeless pieces. Think a pair of black and white ballet flats, black sunglasses, and a structured crossbody bag. These classic pieces, along with the fact that your whole look follows a black and white color scheme, help to make the shorts look more elegant.
6. white dress + neck scarf + woven bag + ballet flats
No summer style guide would be complete without an easy, breezy white dress. It’s so easy to throw on when it’s sweltering hot outside, and it’s an outfit in and of itself. Once you’re wearing it, all you really have to do is accessorize! When you’re in a rush, this is a piece you should definitely consider reaching for to create casual chic looks. You can never go wrong with casual summer dresses.
If you’re dressing up this look, try accessorizing with cap-toed ballet flats, a woven basket bag with leather accents, and a silk neck scarf inspired by French girl fashion.
7. white button-down + navy shorts + belt + loafers + gold watch
top | shorts | belt | shoes | watch
A cotton or linen button-down is another one of my favorite must-haves for chic summer outfits. It’s so easy to style, and it’s another great piece to reach for if you’re struggling to start an outfit. Wear it with shorts, a skirt, or even left open over a dress. It’s the perfect layering piece if you want to keep cool, but also cover up a little bit.
If you prefer simple, minimalist looks, try pairing it with shorts in a contrasting color. Then, add texture with a pair of woven loafers. Complete the look with a leather belt and a gold bracelet watch.
8. blue button-down + white pants + belt + bucket bag + mary janes
top | pants | belt | shoes | bag
Speaking of lightweight fabrics, you’ll also want to ensure that you have a go-to pair of linen pants in your wardrobe. There are summer days that are just too hot for thick denim, and linen pants are a great alternative. You can wear them in so many ways, from beach cover-ups to summer workwear.
If you’re styling this outfit for casual Friday, reach for a button-down shirt on top. Next, add playful seasonal accessories like a woven and leather bucket tote, woven Mary Jane flats, and a leather belt. These pieces help to strike the right balance of work and play for this time of year.
9. white tank top + white pants + hoop earrings + basket tote + sandals
top | pants | bag | shoes | earrings
As I mentioned before, a monochromatic look is ideal outfit inspiration for chic summer outfits. You can elevate your style by coordinating your color scheme to match or fall within a similar color range.
For a bright white style, try pairing a white tank with matching pants. Then, add texture and interest with your accessories. A classic pair of brown sandals and a woven tote bag, along with simple gold hoops, complete the look.
10. striped shirt + straw hat + shorts + leather bag + ballet flats + gold watch
top | shorts | hat | shoes | watch | bag
Enjoy an ice cream cone in style inspired by Audrey Hepburn in this next look. Whether you’re meandering down the Spanish Steps in Rome or enjoying a stroll around your own neighborhood, this next look will keep you cool and comfortable.
First, start with a striped tee inspired by classic French fashion. Next, add a pair of tailored shorts in a neutral shade. Then, accessorize with a leather box-style bag, ballet flats, and a gold watch. The star of this show is the straw hat! The straw hat will tie your look together and add that Parisian flair.
11. white dress + gold earrings + basket bag + ballet flats
dress | shoes | bag | earrings
Flowy dresses are key when it comes to creating chic summer outfits – and beating the stifling heat. Here in the Midwest, summer can be brutal (partly due to the humidity). Keep cool and in style with a mini, midi, or maxi dress. The beauty of summer dresses is that they’re so easy to throw on and go, but still make you look put together.
Try accessorizing with black ballet flats, a basket bag, and gold hoop earrings. This style will look beautiful on every body type!
12. midi dress + straw hat + sunglasses + ballet flats
dress | hat | shoes | sunglasses
Ready for another flowy dress? When it comes to chic color combinations, you can’t beat the classic pairing of black and white. This color-block dress is the best of both worlds and is the perfect way to look elegant while still being comfortable.
Enjoy an outdoor happy hour in this style by pairing it with black ballet flats, a straw hat, and classic sunglasses. You’d be right at home soaking up the sun on the Italian coast in this look!
Related: 35 Italy Outfits That Are the Epitome of European Chic
13. white button-down + straw hat + tailored shorts + belt + wrap sandals
top | belt | shorts | hat | shoes
If you loved the aesthetic of the last look, here’s how to tweak it for a casual day. First, swap out your dress for a white button-down and shorts. This classic base will outlast any fashion trends! Next, add a black belt for contrast against the white shirt and tan shorts. Then, put on a pair of sandals in a coordinating color. Finally, add the pièce de résistance – the straw hat. It’s the perfect look for a relaxed vibe this summer.
14. button-down shirt + striped tank + linen pants + basket tote + sandals + hoops
top | tank | pants | sandals | bag | earrings
Breathable fabrics are key for creating daytime looks when the temperature is hottest. Fabrics like poplin, cotton, and linen will help keep you cool, even if you’re wearing more fabric. This next look is a great way to style a modest look that will still help you beat the heat.
First, start with a linen top layered over a striped tank. White will keep you especially cool when compared to other colors, because it reflects more of the sun’s rays than darker shades. Next, add a pair of high-waisted linen pants. If you’re not a fan of shorts, they are a great solution to go for in addition to skirts. Then, accessorize with leather sandals, a straw bag, and gold hoop earrings to complete the look.
15. short-sleeve cardigan + white skirt + gold earrings + woven bag + ballet flats
top | skirt | shoes | bag | earrings
Last, but certainly not least, is another elevated style. If you’re looking for date night inspiration, try out this look! First, start with a flowy white midi skirt. Then, on top, try a short-sleeved lady jacket cardigan for an elegant touch. Next, pull gold back into your look with a pair of metallic ballet flats. If you love neutrals, metallics can be a great alternative to vibrant colors if you still want to make a bold statement.
Complete your look with a woven or straw bag and gold earrings. Now, all you have left to do is enjoy your night out!
Chic Looks for Any Occasion
If your summer calendar is already filling up, you’ll want to have a wide variety of chic summer outfits that are appropriate for everything from casual beach days to special occasions. The good news is, you can create the majority of these looks with a summer capsule wardrobe! Hopefully, this post has shown you just how far that capsule wardrobe can take you this year.
Still working on your summer capsule wardrobe? We’re here to help! Up Next: A Classic Capsule Wardrobe for Summer
I’m loving all of your black and white combo outfits! So chic and classic 🩷
Right? The best combo!