Though the hot temperatures don’t disappear as soon as the calendar shifts back to school (and for those of you in the southern states, they may never go away), there’s still a sense of summer ending and a new season beginning – something that’s reflected in my wardrobe here in the Midwest. While I’m not pulling out cable-knit sweaters and coats just yet (at this point, I’d end up in the hospital with heat exhaustion), I am starting to pack away some of the more overtly summery pieces as I prepare my closet for the season ahead. So, this may be the last appearance of strapless tops, linen pieces, and sandals – at least all together. I’m ready to embrace the art of mixing, matching, and creating transitional outfits as August comes to a close and we flip the page to September!
1. bodysuit + linen pants + woven flats + crossbody bag + coin necklace
Maybe you’ve already seen it taking over your social media feeds, but this Longchamp mini bag is technically a cosmetic bag. And while I don’t usually try to wear what’s trending, sometimes there’s a good reason something catches on. (Speaking of good reasons, can someone please explain why those Labubu dolls are trending?!)
Creepy dolls aside, these drawstring linen pants are one of my favorites. Yes, they wrinkle, but they’re comfortable and breezy – perfect for hot summer (or even fall) days. I felt both comfortable and stylish in this outfit for a morning at the farmer’s market to an evening comedy show (looking at you, Nate Bargatze).
2. linen dress + straw bag + sandals
For a family dinner, I opted for this white strapless dress for a chic, elevated evening. (White with kids? Yes, I’m brave.)
While the dress tends to slip down a bit on me, other reviewers say it stays put for them – so it must just be me (small busts unite!).
I love finishing a white dress with brown leather sandals, a straw bag, and gold accessories. It’s one of my go-to combinations for effortless summer style.
Related: 10 Chic Mom Outfits Inspired by French Fashion
3. white linen vest + black midi skirt + straw bag + sandals
Though I’m excited for everything autumn has to offer, I’ll miss those sun-drenched evenings spent sipping wine and enjoying wood-fired pizza at a winery on beautiful summer nights. If anything transports me to Italy, it’s that!
I’ve gotten so much wear out of my vests, and I plan to carry them into autumn as well. (That’s the beauty of versatile wardrobe staples!) For a chic look, I paired a fitted white linen vest with a flowy black midi skirt. Black and white are one of my favorite color combinations, and I especially love finishing the look with gold and brown accents, as you know.
Related: Use These Outfit Color Combinations to Always Look Chic
4. gingham dress + sneakers (or ballet flats)
Do you think white sneakers go with everything?
By the end of my England trip, my feet were begging for relief, so I chose white sneakers for a day of sightseeing in London. While opinions may vary, I personally think sneakers and dresses work! They shift the look from chic to casual chic. Not worse, just a different vibe.
This gingham dress feels vintage, feminine, and classic all at once. I’ve worn it countless times, and I’m already eyeing the other colors.
(For the record, I do love my white sneakers, but I kept a pair of classic ballet flats handy so I could slip them on for a photo. See? Different look!)
5. linen pants + striped button up + sandals
When in doubt, I reach for this easy three-piece outfit. These linen pants from Quince are another favorite – an elevated take on my go-to styles from J.Crew. They’re perfect for the office, dinner, church, or anytime you want a more polished look.
To add extra refinement, a striped button-up brings both style and interest. Sandals are the perfect throw-on-and-go shoe choice. You don’t always need new clothes and a new outfit combo to create a fresh outfit. There’s a reason the “oldies but goodies” never fail!
6. white shift dress + ballet flats + straw bag
This shift dress is a dream. The stretch linen fabric is loose, comfortable, and oh so chic. For chic meets Audrey Hepburn vibes, I paired it with ballet flats and a top-handle straw bag. I love the woven style in ballet flats. It’s an elevated take on this classic style and perfect for adding interest to your outfit, while keeping the rest of your look minimalistic.
Chic Summer Outfit Inspo
Though we may be ushering in a new season of styles and layers soon, squeeze out the rest of the hot weather you can by dressing your best! Let these outfit ideas inspire new combinations you can create in your own wardrobe.
Looking for outfit ideas that help you dress for early September? Up Next: 9 Early Fall Outfits That Are Both Stylish and Weather-Friendly
