Skip to Content

18 Summer Outfit Formulas To Save For The Next Time You’re Staring At Your Closet

18 Summer Outfit Formulas To Save For The Next Time You’re Staring At Your Closet

Partager, c'est prendre soin !

Summer fashion should be fun, not frustrating! When temperatures rise, the last thing you want is to waste precious minutes figuring out what to wear. I’ve put together these foolproof outfit combinations that work every time. Save this list for those mornings when your closet feels impossible to navigate.

1. Flowy Maxi Dress + Straw Hat

Amazon.com

Nothing says summer quite like a breezy maxi dress. Add a wide-brimmed straw hat for instant vacation vibes, even if you’re just running errands. The ankle-length silhouette keeps you cool while looking pulled together. No need to overthink accessories—just slip on some sandals and go!

2. Linen Shorts + Striped Tee

© laboyle13

Linen shorts are the unsung heroes of hot weather dressing. Pair with a classic striped tee for that effortless French Riviera look everyone tries to achieve. Roll the sleeves slightly for added coolness factor. This combo works for beach days, brunches, or casual Friday at the office.

3. White Jeans + Colorful Tank

© Lady in Violet

White denim creates the perfect canvas for summer brights. Choose a tank in your favorite bold shade—coral, turquoise, or sunshine yellow all pop beautifully against crisp white. Roll the hems for a more relaxed feel. This formula transitions seamlessly from day to evening with just a switch of accessories.

4. Denim Cutoffs + Oversized Button-Down

© FabFitFun

Channel cool-girl vibes with this unexpected pairing. The contrast between casual cutoffs and a slightly oversized button-down creates that perfect “I didn’t try too hard” look. Leave a few buttons undone and knot the front for a crop effect. Bonus points for choosing a lightweight fabric like linen or chambray.

5. Slip Dress + White Sneakers

© anindigoday

The slip dress gets a casual makeover when paired with crisp white sneakers. This high-low mix feels modern and practical for everyday summer adventures. Choose a midi length for maximum versatility. Add a denim jacket for cooler evenings or when blasting AC makes indoor spaces feel like winter.

6. Paperbag Waist Pants + Crop Top

© fetehapassah

High-waisted paperbag pants create the illusion of mile-long legs. Pairing them with a fitted crop top shows just the right amount of skin while maintaining balance in your proportions. Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. This combination works wonderfully for outdoor dinners or gallery hopping on summer evenings.

7. Bermuda Shorts + Boxy Tee

© Lauren McBride

Bermuda shorts have made a major comeback! These longer shorts paired with a slightly boxy tee create a relaxed silhouette that’s both comfortable and on-trend. Add a belt to define your waist. This outfit works for everything from weekend farmers’ markets to casual office environments where shorts are acceptable.

8. Midi Skirt + Graphic Tank

© This is our Bliss

A flowy midi skirt feels instantly summer-ready when paired with a personality-filled graphic tank. The juxtaposition of feminine and casual creates an interesting visual story. Try a pleated or A-line silhouette for movement. This combination lets you express your personality while staying comfortable in the heat.

9. Jumpsuit + Statement Earrings

© Sydne Style

One-and-done dressing at its finest! A lightweight jumpsuit requires minimal styling—just add bold earrings and you’re ready for anything the day brings. Choose breathable fabrics like cotton or tencel. The beauty of this formula is how it transitions from errand-running to evening drinks with just a change of shoes.

10. Bike Shorts + Oversized Tee

© Alo Yoga

Athleisure gets a fashion upgrade with this sporty combo. Black bike shorts paired with an oversized graphic tee creates that effortless, model-off-duty look everyone’s after. Tuck the front of your tee for shape definition. Add chunky sneakers and sunglasses to complete this ultra-comfortable outfit that still looks intentional.

11. Wrap Dress + Espadrilles

© Alicia Tenise

Wrap dresses flatter literally everyone, making this a foolproof formula. Paired with classic espadrille wedges, you’ve got a combination that works for office, brunch, or summer weddings. Look for cotton or linen blends that breathe. The beauty of this outfit is how it creates a pulled-together look with minimal effort.

12. High-Waisted Skort + Tucked Tank

Amazon.com

Skorts offer the best of both worlds—the look of a skirt with the practicality of shorts underneath. Pair with a simple tucked-in tank for a sporty-chic vibe. Choose a monochromatic palette for sophistication. This outfit transitions perfectly from a morning of tennis to lunch with friends without missing a beat.

13. Culotte Pants + Fitted Bodysuit

© tarawestfashion

Culottes create dramatic volume in the most flattering way. Balancing them with a sleek bodysuit keeps proportions in check while ensuring you stay cool. Opt for lightweight fabrics that move with you. This combination feels sophisticated yet comfortable—perfect for gallery openings or dinner dates on warm evenings.

14. Denim Skirt + Off-Shoulder Top

© Virtuess Blog

Resurrect your denim skirt with a fresh partner—the off-shoulder top. This combination hits the sweet spot between casual and flirty, perfect for weekend adventures. A-line silhouettes work best for comfort. The exposed shoulders add just enough skin to feel seasonally appropriate without going overboard.

15. Printed Shorts + Solid Cami

© Walmart

Bold printed shorts become wearable when paired with a simple solid-colored camisole. This formula lets your personality shine while maintaining balance in your overall look. Tuck in your top for definition. Finish with minimal accessories and comfortable sandals for an outfit that works from beach to street.

16. Wide-Leg Cropped Pants + Fitted Tank

Amazon.com

Cropped wide-leg pants create dramatic volume while letting your ankles catch the breeze. Balancing them with a fitted tank maintains proportion while keeping you cool. High-waisted styles elongate your legs. This combination feels equal parts comfortable and polished—perfect for office days or weekend brunches.

17. Shirt Dress + Leather Sandals

© brandypham

Button-up shirt dresses combine professionalism with warm-weather practicality. Paired with leather sandals, you get that perfect balance of structured and relaxed. Roll the sleeves for a casual touch. This versatile piece can be belted for definition or worn loose for those extra-hot days when you want minimal fabric contact.

18. Matching Set + Minimal Accessories

AliExpress

Coordinated sets take the guesswork out of getting dressed. Whether shorts and a crop top or a tank and skirt, matching sets always look intentional. Solid colors create a sleek silhouette. The beauty of this formula is its versatility—wear together for a polished look or mix with other pieces to multiply your wardrobe.