Warm Weather Attires To Rock This Summer

If you’re similar to me, you might view summer as the trickiest season to outfit yourself for. While in my mind I idealize the season—naively thinking that I can do without hot weather ensembles and will be among those ladies donning jeans and sweaters through August nonchalantly—the reality is, I spend half of summer sweating profusely and the other half strategizing how to evade sweating profusely. The latter has consistently proven itself to be an exercise in futility.

Selecting an attire when the heat is at its peak can be challenging. Include all the factors related to motherhood, and the task becomes even more convoluted. I aim to stay cool, but I also need to take into account how frequently my one-year-old and 3-year-old will have me crouching down (“Mommy, look at this!”), bending over, running, climbing, and all that falls in between. Let’s just say that, most days, mini dresses (without shorts beneath) no longer appear as a viable option.

Amidst activity level, additional clothing considerations encompass snack and drink storage, sun protection, and—somewhere amidst the chaotic mix—the aspiration to appear adorable and well-coordinated. I’m nearly perspiring at the mere contemplation of it.

So what does a mom put on when it’s incredibly scorching outside? After a number of blistering summers immersed in this whole motherhood role, I’m happy to announce I’m starting to unravel it. Having several reliable outfit formulas in mind, I’m even eager to dress for some torrid and muggy days this summer. And, as a pledge to New York pumpkin-spice femininity, that’s truly stating a lot.

Best Summer Attires 2024

Breezy Mid-Length Dress + Minimal Sandals

If the need to appear well-dressed arises on a sweltering day, grab a mid-length or full-length dress without hesitation. A feathery, airy dress in sun-reflecting white or cream is a particularly comfortable choice when the sun is blazing. Empire cuts with some room around the midsection provide extra airiness and—bonus—are a nice wardrobe addition for those who are pregnant or postpartum. Trendy shell accessories add excitement and seasonal vibes.

Purchase this ensemble:

1. midi dress | plus-size dress
2. shell necklace
3. minimalist sandals
4. woven bag

Tennis-Inspired Skirt + Elevated T-Shirt + Sneakers

Last year, I stumbled upon tennis-inspired skorts as the ultimate mom fashion element and, frankly, the universe will never appear the same. Tennis skorts leave nothing to be desired—they’re feminine, sporty, airy, and practical. I adore pairing mine with an elevated t-shirt and shoulder bag for an appearance that’s well-coordinated yet remains functional for active let’s-get-moving days with the kids. Sneakers are an explicit choice to complete this ensemble combo and blend seamlessly with days at the playground, park, or zoo.

Purchase this ensemble:

1. tennis skort
2. elevated tee
3. sneakers
4. spacious tote bag
5. sunglasses

Linen Co-ords + Straw Hat + Flip-Flops

Linen is connected with summer for a reason: The fabric endures remarkably well in hot conditions, keeping you as cool as humanly feasible. A matching set is always a stylish choice, and shorts, in particular, are ideal for bustling days with kids—be it a series of sports events, a backyard barbecue, or a day at the lake. A straw hat and bag align perfectly with the favorite-coastal-grandma aesthetic.

Purchase this ensemble:

1. linen shorts
2. linen top
3. knotted rope tote bag
4. straw hat
5. flip-flops

Easy-Pull Shorts + Stylish Tee + Woven Sandals

Gingham is making waves this summer but will, truly, never fade from style when it comes to warm-weather fashion. Soft, easy-pull shorts are a comfy choice for all stages of motherhood (I acknowledge you, first-trimester moms) and team up perfectly with the graphic tees many of us have stashed in our dresser drawers. Toss in some comfy sweat-proof slide sandals and shades to finalize the look. Picnic in the park is optional.

Purchase this ensemble:

1. gingham shorts | comparable shorts
2. graphic tee
3. sunglasses
4. woven sandals
5. knitted tote bag

Linen Trousers + Sleevless Blouse

If you’re someone who just can’t embrace shorts, linen pants are the most reasonable full-coverage alternative for warm weather. Pair them with a sleeveless top to balance out the skin coverage and visual appeal, augmenting accessories based on the dressing situation. A sea-inspired gold bangle and pearlescent clutch complement the look nicely for a lunch with friends or a seaside dinner with the family.

Purchase this ensemble:

1. linen pants
2. sleeveless blouse
3. shell wristlet
4. slide sandals
5. shades
6. clutch bag

Skort Dress + Sunhat + Woven Flats

When the sun is radiating and the humidity makes the air feel like a warm bath, I earnestly favor the category of individuals who opt for as-little-clothing-as-possible-please. Standing at a mere five feet and three inches in stature, I’ve always favored mini skirts and dresses but—with kids—find the shorter hemlines impractical. Skorts have emerged as my resolution. Those crafted from linen or a linen blend can keep you comfortable without compromising practicability.

Purchase this ensemble:

1. skort dress
2. straw flats
3. sunhat | cost-effective sunhat
4. clutch

Bathing Suit + Sheer Shorts + Flip-flops

Nothing beats spending a scorching summer day by the pool or shore, and there’s no superior water-day attire than a beloved bathing suit. If you, like me, often feel too warm in cover-ups, consider opting for a breezy pair of sheer shorts. An ample, stylish yet functional beach tote is ideal for carrying the approximately 1,045 items you and your family will require for a day near the water – from goldfish snacks to your latest beach novel.

Get this ensemble:

1. one-piece bathing suit
2. sheer shorts
3. beach tote
4. flip-flops

Knee-length Skirt + Crochet Tank + Cooling Cardigan

If you’re off to work on a scorching day, you’ll need to be ready for both the blazing outdoor temperatures and the freezing office climate created by the AC. A knee-length skirt offers coverage from the workplace chill while still being airy for a quick coffee or lunch outing. Match the skirt with a cool sleeveless top – just remember to pack a cardigan for your morning commute.

Get this ensemble:

1. knee-length skirt
2. crochet tank
3. tote bag
4. flip-flops
5. elegant earrings