There’s no better time of year than the bright, sunny days of summertime to experiment with your personal style — and thankfully, you don’t have to get super complicated in order to create beautiful looks that feel both fresh and fun.
Find some inspiration for your warm-weather style with these 11 minimalist outfit ideas to try this summer.
1. Style a black slip dress with a straw bag and strappy sandals to give this versatile staple some seasonal flair.
Summer is the perfect time to play around with different kinds of trendy dresses, and a simple black slip dress is a classic that you can wear any time of year. To make it feel appropriate for a warm day, your accessory choices are super important. Style your dress with a pair of strappy sandals and a light straw bag to breathe fresh life into your look.
2. A casual jumpsuit is basically an instant outfit.
Whether you’re short on time, struggling to get creative, or simply looking for something that you can pull together without overthinking, casual jumpsuits are total game-changers. It’s easy to create looks that star your favorite jumpsuits, and accessories will be key for dressing them up or down. Swap your sneakers for stilettos and slick your waves back into a sky-high pony in order to transition from day tonight.
3. A one-piece swimsuit can easily double as a stylish bodysuit.
If you’re short on time and unable to switch outfits after a day at the beach or pool, a one-piece bathing suit transforms into a flirty bodysuit with the simple addition of a pair of high-waisted shorts or a skirt. When picking out a swimsuit, a printed version makes the fabric seem indistinguishable from that of street clothes.
4. Pair a flowy summer dress with some strappy sandals and a crossbody bag for an easy date night look.
What’s summer without an outfit in a bright, peppy pattern? This is the perfect time of year to get creative with color! Trendy dresses make for really easy outfits that you can style in so many ways. For a special occasion, strappy sandals and a crossbody bag keep your legs looking lean and your hands-free for flirting.
5. High-waisted shorts are super sporty when styled with chunky sneakers and a cropped white T-shirt.
The 90s are back and in a major way. Have a flashback moment with a thick-soled pair of sneakers, high-waisted jean shorts, and a cropped T-shirt. Bonus points for tying a flannel around your hips! Keep the look in the 21st century with minimal makeup and a natural, wavy hairstyle.
6. White jeans never go out of style for summertime outfits.
A pair of white jeans are always closet-worthy because of how versatile and easy-to-wear they are. Invest in a cut that you feel most confident in and it will become one of your staples. For something sporty, style them with a jean jacket and a colorful pair of sneakers or dress them up with heels and a flowing top.
7. A silk camisole is the perfect night out staple for a celebrity-inspired look.
The silk cami hints at the “going out tops” of decades past but feels like a more sultry, grown-up version. Style a bright silk top in a bold color like marigold or emerald with a pair of ripped jeans and sky-high sandals. You’ll create a feminine look that’s perfect for a night out with the girls.
8. Balance a simple midi dress with espadrilles and long earrings.
Just because your dress is long doesn’t mean the look isn’t minimalist! A midi dress can be super sleek in a solid color and flowing fabric. Freshen up the outfit with naturally colored espadrilles and a pair of shoulder-grazing earrings.
9. Add a gray cardigan to your wardrobe for an easy solution to chilly nights.
Even though summer days can get super hot, once the night falls, the temperature drops. Keep comfortable on a chilly night or protect yourself from the blazing sun with a simple heather gray cardigan. We all know it’s important to protect our skin from the sun, but remember, you can still cover up in style. The color will work for now and later, and you can easily wear this staple into the fall and winter.
10. An easy, breezy linen outfit is fresh for the season.
Linen is the perfect fabric choice for warm summer weather. It’s breathable and dries very easily, making you less likely to start feeling overheated. While linen is often thought of for more casual occasions, a structured jacket and a crisp shift dress will work for a day at the office.
11. Black sandals give off a cool, city girl vibe when paired with a gray T-shirt dress.
City girls know that practical shoes don’t have to be tired and boring. Black sandals feel edgy but are still seasonally appropriate. They’re also an amazing transition staple for creating early fall outfits. Style a pair with a simple T-shirt dress, a black crossbody bag, and some oversize shades for a wearable look that’s super cool.
Maximum Impact
Summer is the perfect season to rethink your wardrobe and experiment with new and creative pairings. Marie Kondo isn’t the only one preaching minimalism this summer. With a careful choice of accessories, minimalist outfits can still make a major impact.