summer backless dress outfit

What to Wear During a Heatwave | Chic Outfit Ideas

By
Carolyn Arentson
Last Modified on July 7, 2026

This post may contain affiliate links.

Many people across the country are experiencing soaring temperatures. If you’re one of them and looking for outfits that help you stay cool (without sacrificing style, of course), you’ve come to the right place. Let’s take your summer staples and turn them into cool – yet chic – outfit ideas!

1. A Flowy Sleeveless Dress

dress | shoes | hat | bag | necklace | rings

A light and airy sleeveless dress is a must-have when it’s hotter than hot! Not only is it comfortable and breezy to wear, but on extra hot days, you don’t want to put a lot of brain power into figuring out what to wear. Simply pair your dress with summery accessories, and you’re good to go!

2. A Cotton Midi Skirt

skirt | top | flats | bag | necklace | hair clip

A white skirt is one of the most versatile pieces in your warm weather closet. And if your skirt is cotton, it’s not just versatile, it’s breathable too. The materials you wear matter just as much as the silhouette! Back to this outfit – a halter top adds a vintage style to this outfit, while the ballet flats and pearl necklace add a layer of chic.

3. A Breezy White Top

top | shorts | bag | shoes | hat | bracelet

For a casual summer weekend outfit – whether you’re going to the farmers’ market or antique shopping – denim shorts are the perfect thing to pair with this next staple: a white breezy top. Effortless and feminine, your breezy white top will not only keep you cool, but elevate the rest of your casual outfit as well!

4. Cotton or Linen Shorts

shorts | shoes | bag | vest | watch

100% cotton, linen, or cotton-linen blends are your best bet for breathable summer outfits. A pair of linen shorts in a neutral color is going to provide a plethora of outfits! For a more dressed-up take, pair your shorts with a linen vest, woven shoes (for breathability), and a matching bag for a coordinated look.

5. A Light Tank Top

top | bag | skirt | shoes

When it’s really hot, I don’t like things that cling to my body, and I bet you’re the same. A light, looser-fitting tank top is going to be a powerhouse in your wardrobe – perfect for airflow and for pairing with anything from skirts to shorts. Tucking it into a linen midi skirt is double duty because it’s breathable and cute!

6. A Boxy Fit Tee

top | shorts | shoes | bag

Sleeveless tops are an obvious choice for hot days, but if you prefer to have a little more arm coverage without resorting to a long sleeve top (though a linen button up can be a good idea), then a boxy fit tee with a little bit of sleeve is a great in between! Paired with white linen shorts and sandals, the end result is simple yet classic.

Staying Chic and Beating the Heat

This certainly isn’t an exhaustive list. Depending on your personal comfort, backless dresses, sleeveless linen shift dresses, and items like tops with cutouts can keep you cool as well. Don’t forget – focus on linen or cotton materials and/or loose breezy silhouettes for a cool (and chic) summer!

Need more summer outfit ideas? Up Next: Summer Vacation Outfits You’ll Want to Book a Vacation Just to Wear | Part 1

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