With summer, fashion is a mix of comfort and casual chic. The aim is to beat the heat while still looking polished — whether you’re walking the boardwalk, brunching or attending a summer soirée. What to wear this summer: casual summer outfits It’s all about that calm cool and collected look when you are dressing down for summer. I’m talking breathable fabrics, flowy silhouettes, earthy tones and little to no fuss. This is 2025, though, and the inclination is to subtlety and sophistication: pairing elevated basics with wispy statements. The 15 outfit ideas ahead promise to keep you looking chic without breaking a sweat — figuratively or literally. Whether you are starting over with a capsule wardrobe or simply looking for some fresh ideas, these easy, chic looks are just right for the season.
1. The Linen Two-Piece Set
For summer chic, nothing does it better than a matching linen two-piece set. A crop button up + high waist shorts = A polished but breezy ensemble on hot days. Linen’s natural fibers are left as is to keep the vibe light, often in neutral shades like ivory, sand or sage green that contribute to the minimalist look. This set goes from morning errands to sunset drinks with ease. And no outfit, would be complete without an oversized pair of shades, and a pair of leather strappy sandals to give it a touch of understated elegance. There is soft glam in gold jewelry, particularly hoops and layered chains. The magic of this look is its equilibrium: It’s tailored enough that it looks deliberate, but relaxed enough to keep you feeling — and looking — cool. You can try a pastel tone for an ensemble or even a fine pinstripe for a hint of depth without heaviness. This linen set is also crazy versatile—wear the two together for a head-to-toe look, or switch them out and pair them with other closet essentials. It’s the sort of look that you’ll return to over and over, especially when you just want to manage looking casually put together in only minutes.
2. Airy Maxi Dress and Simple Slides
This flowy maxi dress is all about easy summer vibes: you get head-to-toe coverage, but get to be as comfortable as possible. In 2025, expect dresses with restrained subtleties, perhaps an asymmetrical hem, a low back tie or soft ruffles that are not overwhelming. A solid color dress — think rust, seafoam, or butter yellow — feels modern and romantic and minimalist slides keep the look grounded and fuss-free. Go with leather or faux-leather slides, in an understated neutral, to elevate the look. These should be paired with something shorter — you won’t want swamp knees in a longer pant with a cuff turn-up, so stick to a long short, an ankle cropped pant, or a high-rise relaxed jean. This combo works well for brunch, it looks great through a beach town and even slides into a casual Friday meeting (touched up with just the right shoe). Throw a straw or canvas tote over your shoulder and embrace an outsize earring to amp up the look. The dress flows, the dress moves, and it doesn’t hug your body — a blessing on a hot, sticky summer day. It’s great for layering with a thin cardigan or denim jacket at night, when the breeze starts to pick up. Whether you are on vacation or you just want to feel like you are, so to speak, this combo is casually feminine and very photo-ready.
3. Extra Size Top and High Waist Jean Short
The oversized shirt tucked into high-waisted shorts look has become a uniform for good reason — it’s easy, breezy and screams of laidback, casual elegance. Pick a button-down top in a light, breathable cotton or linen blend — bonus points if it is in a pastel shade like powder blue, blush or classic white. And when tuck it loosely into a pair of vintage-inspired, high-waisted denim shorts and you have a shape that’s flattering, but still relaxed. Roll up the sleeves, cinch the waist with leather belt and complete the look with white sneakers or braided sandals. This is perfect for those last minute plans, day time errands, farmers market visits and coffee dates. What’s special about the look in 2025 is that it’s more about quality than flash: think well-made basics with clean lines and thoughtful accessories. A silk headscarf or a woven bag adds a bit of personal without making matters unnecessarily complicated. It’s a chic look that radiates effortlessness — that you didn’t go so far as to try, but still look like something better. This tandem can be reimagined ad infinitum, based on what you accessorize with or how your shirt fits. Chic, easy, and forever cool.
4. Crop Tank With Wide-Leg Trousers
A cropped tank with wide-leg pants finds the right balance between comfort and polish. It’s that ideal in-between: enough skin and enough coverage, fitted and flowy. In 2025, we’re already starting to see floated takes on this pairing: knit tanks that come in ribbed textures, silky pants in earthy hues and subtle cutouts or halter necks. Tuck your tops into high-waist pants in tencel, linen blended or even soft cotton for an ultra-comfy wear. This shape will lengthen the legs and it’s okay to breath even on the hottest of days. In terms of footwear, that could mean chunky slides or low block-heel sandals, depending on the occasion. Complete the look with a structured bag and pared-back accessories —think matte bangles or a cuff. This would work for just about every occasion: afternoons at the art gallery, lounging around on the rooftop, even travel days. It’s a level above the typical summer casual look, but still among the most relaxed there is. With so many design options for the tank — cropped high, square neck, racerback — you’ll never get bored finding new ways to style this breezy pair.
5. Knotted Tee and Flowy Skirt
This effortlessly feminine outfit blends classic comfort with a gentle summer flair. Start with a simple cotton tee—oversized or standard fit—and knot it at the waist to define your shape. Pair it with a midi or maxi skirt in a breathable, flowy fabric. Think chiffon, rayon, or a soft linen blend with prints like ditsy florals, abstract patterns, or bold stripes. The contrast between the casual tee and the soft elegance of the skirt creates a perfect visual harmony. This look works well with both sneakers for an urban twist or espadrilles for a more romantic feel. Throw on a crossbody bag and a straw hat, and you’re instantly ready for anything from a casual picnic to an open-air concert. It’s a go-to for days when you want to feel put together without trying too hard. The beauty of this combo is its adaptability—change the tee color or the skirt length, and you’ve got an entirely new outfit. Easy to pack, wear, and repeat.
6. Light Romper with Statement Accessories
Rompers offer a no-fuss, one-and-done outfit solution that’s perfect for summer’s spontaneity. Choose a light fabric like cotton gauze or linen in pastel or earthy tones—terracotta, sage, ivory. In 2025, look for styles with smocking, button fronts, or even one-shoulder cuts for added visual interest. Since rompers are inherently playful and relaxed, use accessories to elevate the look. A pair of bold sunglasses, large hoop earrings, or a straw clutch can make all the difference. Flat sandals or platform slides work beautifully here, offering both comfort and style. Whether you’re headed to a farmer’s market or an afternoon patio lunch, this outfit will carry you through the day with ease. Bonus: it’s incredibly packable and travel-friendly. While rompers can sometimes feel too youthful, the updated cuts and elevated details this year give them a grown-up edge. This look is proof that you don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort—and you can pull it together in under five minutes.
7. Button-Up Dress with Sneakers
The button-up dress is back and more stylish than ever. Slightly structured yet still soft, it walks the line between classic and modern perfectly. Shirt dresses in cotton poplin or chambray are especially hot this year, offering both breathability and polish. Opt for knee- or midi-length styles with tie-waists, curved hems, or subtle pleating for added interest. Pair with white sneakers to ground the look and give it a casual, city-girl vibe. It’s a great everyday option for work, errands, or travel, and transitions easily into evening with a quick shoe swap. Add a structured tote and dainty gold jewelry to enhance the understated elegance. In a season full of volume and slouch, the tailored lines of a button-up dress are a refreshing palette cleanser. It’s comfortable, practical, and stylish—a trifecta that’s hard to beat in summer fashion.
8. Tube Top and Cargo Pants
Giving us laid-back street style vibes, the tube top and cargo pant combination is an underdog summer champion. The minimal top is paired perfectly with the utility style bottoms for a mix of sultry and strong. Opt for a tube top in chunky knit or ribbed fabric for some structure, and wear with high-waisted cargo pants in airy cotton or parachute nylon. Soft earth tones — olive, beige, rust — ground the look. Ground with dad sandals or chunky sneakers for edge, and carry a slouchy hobo or mini backpack; I’ve worn mine with a crescent-shaped crossbody bag as well. This combination is every musician’s finest hour at a music festival, outdoor hang out or an adventurous day in the city. In 2025, utilitarian fashion is returning with a polished attitude, and this look is a chic way to preview the trend. You can also easily dress the look up by jacking up the sex appeal, for example with a lightweight blazer or linen shirt off-the-shoulder. Cool, gutsy, and with just enough weirdness to leave an impression.
9. See-Through Top Over Bralette and Shorts
The sheer top outfit is sexy, but not exposing—ideal for hot summer nights. Opt for a blouse in organza or light chiffon with embroidery details or lace. For under under go with a fun bralette or bandeau in a matching hue. Pair these with casual denim shorts or a pair of tailored bermudas to balance your look. Lil metallic detailing sandals or kitten heels work perfectly. It’s a look that toes the line between flirty and grown-up. Finish with sleek hair, a clutch and a bold lip and you’re dinner-party ready. The panel of sheer material is just enough of a mystery factor, and as long as you slouch, anything remotely insulating is also quite cool and breathable. This look is perfect for watching a sunset on a rooftop party, an art show or going on a romantic date. It’s a sophisticated way to reveal some skin without a high degree of exposure — and enables the fabric and silhouette to speak for themselves.
10. Boho Kimono and Matching Set
If you 10/10 have a free spirit living’ inside you, do the boho thing: A kimono over a matching crop top and shorts set. Think crochet trims, tassels and desert-toned prints. This action-packed look should feel deliberate and loose, especially in a garment like gauze, rayon or open-knit cotton. Throw on flat gladiator sandals and a wide-brim hat to complete the look. There’s something all about vacation with this outfit, though you could easily take it on the road in your neighborhood. The key in 2025 is to have all the colors and prints work well together so that it doesn’t draw too much attention. A little tonal color and texture can take you a long way. You will appear as if you walked straight out of a summer daydream — easy, breezy, stylish and perfectly in sync with the season.
11. Romper Jumpsuits for Women Elegant Belted Rompers Jumpsuit Your search for the perfect outfit is here!
A jumpsuit is a no-brainer: This one-and-done outfit will make you look put-together with minimal effort. Go for something like modal or rayon with the perfect drape. Opt for sleeveless or cap-sleeve styles and add a fabric or leather belt to draw in at the waist. In clay, denim blue or a creamy taupe, the jumpsuit serves as a canvas for accessories. Throw on a pair of platform espadrilles, statement earrings, or a basket bag to ready yourself to go. Great for travel, casual Fridays or outdoor summer dinners, the jumpsuit is effortlessly chic and easy to throw. The 2025 update is all about customizing and minimal equipment — as in thin, perforated and adult-friendly. It’s a must-have in multiple colors.
12. Knit Sleeveless Tops with Airy Bottoms
Sleeveless knit tops provide texture without the swelter in a summer wardrobe. Simply wear them with a breezy pair of bottoms, culottes, palazzo pants or even a sarong wrap. Seek out knits with something special about them, be it an open-knit pattern, a mock neck or racerback cut. Soft neutrals and delicate prints turn the outfit into a put-together look and flat sandals or ballet flats make sure it’s not too precious. This is a quietly elegant number – think city strolls, art galleries, or alfresco luncheons. It’s the stuff of that tactile, organic feel — clothes that welcome touch and movement with a burst, without shouting. Minimal but not at all boring, this mix is all about letting texture speak.
13. Materials: The accessories are optional. Classic Tank Dress and Accessories
The ribbed tank dress is a classic, a no-brainer and all-purpose. By 2025, choose versions that are midi-length, with side slits, racerback cuts or asymmetric hems. Dress it up with leather slides, statement sunglasses, and some stacked necklaces. And depending on your mood, throw a straw bag or a clean canvas tote into the mix. Tank dresses in olive, charcoal or dusty rose appear updated and sophisticated. It’s the ideal look for days when the heat makes it impossible to think straight. Slip it on, add some accessories and go — it’s about as straightforward as summer dressing can get.
14. Crochet Top and Denim Skirt
The crochet revival follows through into 2025 with chic and wearable takes on the trend. A form-fitting crocheted top — either sleeveless or with a cap-sleeve added for fun — gives a bricolages look to a classic denim A-line skirt. Choose a skirt with raw hems or a discreet distressing detail to contrast with the artisanal knit. Wear with tan sandals and a macramé or straw bag for a textured, coastal effect. PC: @27PRoject_NYC This look is perfect for everything from beach town lunch to Sunday market fun. Experiment with color — all neutral or with a pop of saffron or sky blue. It’s a nostalgic combination that’s all about summer fun, however totally modern.
15. Baggy Overalls Worn with a Fitted Tank
Slouchy overalls are here again, but they’ve matured. Pair them with a close fitting top in white or a bright accent to keep your body well proportioned. Opt for light denim nor linen-blend overalls with wide legs or cropped styles. Roll up the cuffs, slip into some athletic sandals, then maybe throw a baseball cap or straw hat into the mix. It’s a no-brainer for exploring on the weekend, garden parties or summer flea markets. In 2025, it’s nostalgia with some smoothness. That’s exactly what this look achieves — comfortable, a bit playful and yes, of course, stylish.
Whether you’re going on vacation or just enjoying the season where you are, these looks have the right measure of ease and polish. With breathable fabrics, considered details and easy silhouettes, summer style in 2025 is about feeling good in your skin — and what you put on it. These looks show that laid-back does not need to mean lazy — just light, pretty and totally you.