Summer is all about ease, and that starts with getting dressed. When the heat’s on, I reach for outfits that are simple to pull together but still look polished. That’s where outfit formulas come in handy. With just a few reliable combinations, you can take on everything from backyard barbecues to weekend getaways without the wardrobe stress. Today, I’m sharing five easy summer outfit formulas that work for nearly every occasion. Let’s dive into the pieces I’m loving right now.
Easy Outfit Formulas for Every Summer Occasion
1. The Casual Brunch Look
Ribbed Polo Top + Tailored Shorts + Slide Sandals + Woven Bag
Light, breathable, and polished—perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or strolling the weekend farmers’ market. This look is all about relaxed polish with a playful twist. The Veronica Beard Printed Belted Linen Shorts add visual interest and structure, while a ribbed red V-neck polo tee brings in a fresh pop of color. It’s a flattering combo and the proportions balance perfectly, especially with the belted waist to define your shape. Finish the look with the Madewell Cera Hardware Thong Sandal and a bamboo-handle handbag for texture and a touch of summer charm.
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Style tip: Swap out the top for a neutral tank or button-down to create endless outfit variations using the same statement shorts.
2. The Travel Day Uniform
Tank + Summer White Denim Pants + Comfy Sandals + Lightweight Denim Shirt + Woven Bag
This combo is all about comfort and ease without sacrificing style. Add sunglasses and you’re vacation-ready. This outfit is built for movement, comfort, and polish—perfect for road trips, airport travel, or sightseeing. The base starts with Talbots Slim Straight Ankle Jeans, offering stretch and structure that won’t lose shape during long travel days. Pair them with the Veronica Beard Dree Muscle Tee—a comfortable take on the classic tank that layers beautifully. Add the Mother The Super Ex Crop Step Fray Shirt as a lightweight outer layer that works as a jacket on chilly flights.
For accessories, the J.McLaughlin Popie Woven Belt defines the waist and adds a textural element. The Steve Madden Hayden Slide Sandals offer a sophisticated look with their Hermes-like detail. A Wicker and Leather Satchel pulls the look together with elevated charm and travel-day function.
- Style tip: Swap the sandals for slip-on sneakers if you’re logging lots of steps, or headed to the airport—just as stylish, with extra support and all-day comfort.
More Travel-Friendly Outfits
3. The Backyard BBQ or Picnic
Sleeveless Midi Dress + Sandals or Espadrilles + Straw Hat + Statement Earrings
One-and-done dressing at its best. Keep it breezy and effortless with accessories that add a touch of personality. This look strikes the perfect balance between effortless and elevated, ideal for outdoor gatherings where comfort and style go hand in hand. The Loft Linen Vest Midi Dress offers clean lines and a tailored feel while keeping things breathable and light. The vest-inspired silhouette adds polish, making this dress a standout for casual events that still call for a little intention.
Pair it with Castañer Cotton Canvas Espadrilles – Chambray for a soft pop of color and all-day wearability. An Eric Javits Squishee Fedora brings in rich texture and sun protection. The Gold Strong Sirens Song Earrings add a subtle shine that catches the light just right.
- Style tip: Swap the espadrilles for flat sandals and add a denim jacket if temps dip in the evening—it’s an easy way to transition from day to night.
Style Formula
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4. The Beach-to-Dinner Transition
Swimsuit + Linen Shorts + Button-Up + Sandals
Throw on the shirt, tuck in the shorts (or go with a tie-front top), and swap flip-flops for sandals—suddenly you’re dinner-ready. This outfit is a lesson in stylish layering with a purpose. It’s made to take you from sand to supper without missing a beat. Start with a Black-and-White Zebra Print Swimsuit as your base. It’s bold, flattering, and doubles as a bodysuit when paired with Linen Drawstring Shorts. Toss on a Tie Hem Button Front Top to give the look a polished edge while still keeping it relaxed and breathable.
A Straw Bucket Hat adds that coastal-cool factor while protecting your face from the sun. For footwear, go with Gold Thongs for a casual beachy vibe. Then switch to the Ilyssa Canvas Espadrille Slides for an elevated casual finish that says “reservation-ready.”
- Style tip: Keep a pair of bold earrings or a red lip in your beach bag—small additions like these instantly elevate your look for dinner.
For More Swimwear Inspiration, check out: Flattering Swimsuits for Women Over 50
5. The Outdoor Evening Event
Cotton Midi Dress + Lightweight Wrap + Heeled Sandals + Raffia Bag
Romantic and refined, this look works for weddings, rooftop dinners, or evening concerts under the stars. Summer evenings are made for romantic silhouettes and soft textures, and this look delivers both. The Eyelet Halter Fit & Flare Dress feels feminine and classic, with just the right amount of structure to make it occasion-worthy. The halter neckline adds a bit of drama while the fit-and-flare cut flatters your frame beautifully.
Paired with the Schutz Victorie Block Sandal, you get height and support—perfect for walking on grass or gravel at weddings, garden parties, or outdoor concerts. A Rattan Top-Handle Bag adds a charming, textural touch that ties in effortlessly with the warm-weather vibe. A Floral Oblong Scarf offers a soft layering option for breezy evenings. The Aubree Large Hoop Earrings complete the look with just the right amount of shine.
- Style tip: A fit-and-flare dress is the ultimate event-ready shape—just add a scarf or wrap and you’re ready for any setting.
Closing Thoughts
Easy Outfit Formulas for Every Summer Occasion
When summer gets busy, having a few go-to outfit formulas makes getting dressed one less thing to think about. Whether you’re headed to the beach, out to brunch, or off on a weekend getaway, these looks prove that style doesn’t have to be complicated. I hope these combinations inspire you to build a few formulas of your own—ones that make you feel confident, comfortable, and ready for whatever the season brings.
YouTube Live!
Did you know we have a YouTube Live show each week? Join Kelly and me for live conversations about a variety of topics relevant to life today, and all things fashion – including try-ons, regular and petite styles, and so much more! We want you to join the conversation with your questions, thoughts, and experiences.
So be sure to tune into my YouTube channel Wednesday, June 11, at 3 PM EST. for our YouTube Live! This week’s topic is Summer Wedding Style.
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