As I’ve gotten older, summer has become one of my favorite seasons. There is just something about the easy flow and slow days that I’ve come to enjoy as a busy mom of two. My strategy for summer dressing is to keep it simple, chic, and minimal. This is the season to let go of complicated, layered outfits with tons of accessories. That is just too fussy for summer! Now more than ever, I am leaning heavily into my neutrals; keeping things minimal with light, flowy, summer fabrics and barely there sandals.
I’m sharing four minimal outfit ideas for summer that I’m going to be wearing over and over again. For each outfit, I’ve also linked a few more pieces to shop to allow for different budgets.
Four Minimal Outfit Ideas For Summer
Black Tube Top (Or Tank) With Black Pants
Everlane Tube Top (size up if busty) // ABLE Mary Easy Pants (I sized down; code ASHLEYR15) // Nisolo Huarache Sandals (code ASHROHR for 20% off your first purchase) // Bag (old from ABLE; similar; code ASHLEYR15) // Sela Designs Parker Necklace // Sela Designs Makena Hoops
WHY IT WORKS: When styling fitted summer tanks like tube tops and crop tops, I recommend sticking with a looser bottom so the outfit looks overall more balanced. I’m very into the tube top trend (see also this look) but you could also wear a simple tank or even a tee, whichever you’re more comfortable with. I’ve linked a couple other options below. I also love the casual summer vibes that the huarache sandals add to this look but you can wear any light colored flats you have.
SHOP THE LOOK
White Blouse + Ecru (Or White Denim) + Sandals
Doen Nalina Top in Salt // Gap High Rise Stride Jean (I took my smaller size in the petite length) // Tkees Gemma Sandals in Sunkissed // Madewell Small Transport Crossbody // Sela Designs Parker Necklace // Sela Designs Makena Hoops
WHY IT WORKS: My number one tip for looking chic in the summer is to wear a monochromatic outfit using pieces from the same color family. I know it’s risky as a mom of two (sticky) kids, but that’s why stain remover was invented. This top is from Doen and was on my summer wishlist. It is quite pricey (I budgeted for it!), but I’ve linked a few other similar options below. The nude strappy sandals and straw bag complete this look.
SHOP THE LOOK
Black Blazer + Trouser Shorts
Sézane Juan T-Shirt // Gap SoftSuit Blazer in Tencel // ABLE Esme Long Drapey Short (code ASHLEYR15) // Beek Cockatoo Sandals // Parker Clay Tote Bag // Sela Designs Parker Necklace // Sela Designs Makena Hoops
WHY IT WORKS: This casual chic outfit is perfect for looking polished in the summer. The combination of a blazer and trouser shorts is a little bit professional, but looks more casual when paired with sandals. To make this look office appropriate (can you wear shorts at your office? It’s been forever since I’ve actually worked in one.) switch out sandals for a pair of slingback flats, loafers, or mules.
SHOP THE LOOK
Madewell Oversized Trucker Jean Jacket (fits TTS for an oversized fit) // Sézane Juan T-Shirt // Madewell Neale Shorts in 100% Linen // Freda Salvador Eda D’Orsay Sneakers // Anthropologie Lindy Woven Clutch in Cream // Sela Designs Parker Necklace // Sela Designs Makena Hoops
WHY IT WORKS: We are keeping this look minimal by wearing all white, but I added some color with this oversized denim jacket. This would be a good elevated weekend look. A little tip, embrace the wrinkles on your linen pieces; there is no avoiding them.
SHOP THE LOOK
For more minimal outfit ideas, check out this post with nine minimal outfit ideas for summer.
