Summer dressing can be a challenge if you prefer layered, modest looks. In the colder months, it’s easier to stay covered up when you’re also trying to stay warm. But when the summer heat rolls around? No one wants to be decked out in heavy, long pieces! The trick is to find outfits that still give you the coverage you’re craving, without giving you heatstroke in the process. If this sounds like you, keep reading for 13 looks to inspire your modest summer outfits.
1. midi dress + button-down + pearl earrings + sunglasses + ballet flats
dress | button-down | ballet flats | bag | earrings | sunglasses
Modest clothing doesn’t have to look outdated when it comes to summer dressing. You can style chic, trendy looks with a few capsule wardrobe staples. And the best part is, this look still can fit into a modest fashion qualification, too.
First, start with a black midi tank dress. This style is perfect for modest dressing because it covers up your chest, and will fall to your calf. You could certainly wear this alone, but if you’d like more coverage, consider adding a second layer with long sleeves.
You don’t want to overheat, so make sure to stick to breathable fabrics for your second layer. A linen button-down is perfect. Then, accessorize with elegant cap-toed ballet flats, a black leather bag, trendy oval sunglasses, and a pair of classic pearl stud earrings.
2. short-sleeved cardigan + midi skirt + hoops + crossbody bag + sandals
sweater | skirt | bag | sandals | earrings
The ideal modest wardrobe for summer is filled with lightweight fabrics, flowy silhouettes, and breathable materials. These pieces all work together for looks that give you the coverage you love, without feeling stuffy or outdated.
Start this next look with a white poplin midi skirt. On top, try a short-sleeved cardigan in a cotton material. Cotton is the key to transitioning your warmer pieces to spring and summer – it’s much lighter and suited to warmer temperatures than wool. Next, introduce a new texture to your look with leather sandals and a leather bag. Finish the look with a staple pair of hoop earrings.
3. blouse + white pants + hoops + shoulder bag + strappy sandals
blouse | pants | sandals | bag | earrings
If you love a pop of color in your summer outfits, try a bright shade of blue. It’s close enough to a neutral that it’s still a very versatile piece to keep in your closet. Plus, it adds great contrast to a pair of white linen pants in your modest summer outfits.
Even though this blouse does have long sleeves, the balloon sleeves prevent the fabric from sticking to your arms. This flowy style is great for summer! Next, coordinate your accessories with strappy sandals, and a black leather shoulder bag. Simple gold hoops complete the look.
4. linen blazer + midi dress + watch + hoops + tote bag + flats
dress | blazer | bag | earrings | watch | ballet flats
Here’s another style of tank dress for you to consider. This particular piece has a boxier shape, which can be flattering if you don’t like clothes that are too close-fitting. It’s sleeveless, and so will pair well with a linen blazer. The linen component is key to preventing the blazer from looking out of season (or causing you to warm up too quickly).
Accessorize this look with a sleek leather work bag, woven flats, and classic gold jewelry. Voilà ! You have the perfect summer office outfit.
5. shirtdress + sweater over the shoulders + raffia tote + sandals
shirtdress | sweater shawl | sandals | tote bag | earrings
When it comes to warm weather, nothing besides a shirt dress when it comes to an effortless, simple women’s outfit for the summer. This single piece is an outfit in and of itself, so it’s easy to throw on and go in the morning. Look for one with a midi or maxi skirt, and short sleeves if you’d like to make sure this dress falls within the realm of modest clothes.
Keep your accessories minimalist and classic. Leather sandals, a raffia tote bag, a striped sweater tied over the shoulder, and a pair of stud earrings are all you need. If you want to add a touch of the nautical aesthetic, these seashell earrings are perfect.
6. jumpsuit + sunglasses + tote bag + flip flops
jumpsuit | bag | sandals | sunglasses
Do you love a modest outfit, but at the same time also want to flatter your natural figure? A wide-leg jumpsuit might be perfect for you! This piece provides great coverage up top and down below, without being boring. Plus, the belted waist is the perfect way to highlight the narrowest part of your midsection.
Because the jumpsuit is the star of the show, no need to overcomplicate your accessories. Think a pair of leather flip-flops, a structured tote bag, and a pair of aviator sunglasses. This outfit is perfect for outdoor activities – there’s no worry about your shirt or skirt being taken by the breeze!
7. striped shirt + skirt + sunglasses + raffia tote + sandals
shirt | skirt | sandals | tote bag | sunglasses
If you prefer modest outfits to feature a more relaxed fit, try this next idea. First, start with your classic white skirt in a midi or maxi length. Then, add a slightly oversized Mariner tee on top. The exaggerated sleeves and boxy style of the shirt will prevent it from clinging to your arms or midsection. Plus, stripes are a girl’s best friend when it comes to a French-inspired summer wardrobe!
Accessorize with a few more Parisian-girl staples to complete the look: a raffia tote bag, strappy sandals, and a pair of cat-eye sunglasses.
8. button-down shirt + sheer skirt + hoops + watch + slingback flats
shirt | skirt | flats | watch | earrings
If you really want to embrace light summer dressing, you can’t go much lighter than a sheer skirt. But don’t be worried! This piece can still be adapted for a modest wardrobe. This slip skirt from J.Crew features a short slip underneath, to make sure that you’re covered where necessary.
On top, go for a more oversized piece for additional coverage. I love the idea of wearing it with an oversized button-down, as it strikes the right balance of masculine (the button-down) versus feminine (sheer fabrics). You can further elevate the look with elegant accessories – think a gold watch, slingback flats, and a pair of gold earrings.
9. t-shirt + cardigan + bermuda shorts + hoops + belt + tote + flats
t-shirt | sweater | shorts | flats | tote bag | belt | earrings
Short shorts are certainly not ideal for a modest look, so swap them out for a longer pair instead. This pair of Bermuda shorts has a 9″ inseam, which will provide great coverage for your legs. On top, go for a tonal look by pairing them with a white t-shirt.
Create contrast in your look with a classic color combo – black and white. Add a black cardigan, slouchy tote bag, and woven flats to your outfit. Break up the two white pieces with a black belt. Finally, accessorize with a minimalist pair of white hoops.
10. chambray shirt + linen pants + straw hat + bandana + boat shoes
shirt | pants | boat shoes | tote bag | straw hat | bandana
Getting ready for an early farmer’s market run? A pair of linen pants is a great option when you’ll be doing a lot of walking, but have to deal with hot weather. Linen is one of the most breathable fabrics and is the perfect light fabric for warm temperatures.
On top, swap out your spring denim jacket for a lighter-weight chambray shirt. You get the same vibe as a denim jacket, without the added heat and weight. Then, accessorize with seasonal pieces like a straw hat, woven French market tote, and boat shoes. Complete the outfit with a neck scarf.
11. striped cardigan + crop pants + hoops + shoulder bag + gold flats
sweater | pants | shoes | bag | hoops
Save this elegant look for the warm days ahead. If you run cold or are dressing for an office that has air conditioning, this pairing might be the perfect fit for you. First, start with a pair of pleated crop chino pants. They’re ideal for the warmer months when you’re wearing flats or sandals!
On top, try a relaxed-fit lady jacket cardigan. Look for looser fits when it comes to your tops – tight-fitting pieces will cling to you and make you feel warmer. Then, add a pair of gold Mary Janes. They’re a fun pop of metallic color. Accessorize with a woven shoulder bag, and a pair of mixed-metal hoops.
12. short-sleeved sweater + polka dot skirt + pearls + basket + espadrilles
sweater | skirt | basket | scarf | espadrilles | earrings
Polka dots are a fun, nostalgic trend that’s made its way back into feminine looks this year. The classic pattern is the perfect way to give off a more youthful appearance, especially when paired with fun shoes. Espadrilles are a great complementary style!
On top, try a short-sleeved sweater. If you’re still transitioning to warmer days ahead, a short-sleeved sweater is a great way to stay cozy, while also giving you a great base layer. Accessorize with a woven basket bag, and add a pop of color with a scarf tied around the handle.
13. denim shirt + midi skirt + tall boots + saddle bag + earrings
shirt | skirt | boots | saddle bag | earrings
Last, but not least, here’s another fun take on a current trend for you to try. It just goes to show that modest summer outfits can be trendy, too! The Western chic aesthetic is everywhere in pop culture right now, from the runways to music to books and movies. Try styling your own take on the fun trend with a midi or maxi skirt, a denim blouse, and suede accessories. Add a pair of gold hoops to complete the look that’s as cool as it is modest.
Beat the Heat with Chic Looks
Are you ready for summer? Don’t let warmer temps catch you off guard, or throw you off your style game! You can still enjoy modest outfits with a little planning. Choosing the right fabrics, silhouettes, and layers is key when it comes to modest summer outfits. Have fun mixing and matching these elements to create chic warm weather looks!
Want to know how French Girls approach their summer dressing? Up Next: 9 Effortless Ways to Get French Girl Summer Style
Love the outfits but not sure that ‘modesty’ is a quality that should be promoted. Would it be promoted in men’s fashion? No, it’s always the women who have to be modest … and quiet, and obedient. Maybe you could just call it like it is ‘covered up’ or ‘sun protected’. I’m sure there are better, factual, less female oppressive words.
Really like your style though 🙂
Something to think about! Thanks for sharing your feedback, Anita.
Darling options for the summer! I love the word modest in these outfits. There is an element of class and sophistication displayed here. Keep up the great work!
So glad you like these looks. Thanks for the feedback and for stopping by!