5 Easy Outfit Formulas to Beat the Summer Heat

SkyeChanel
Jun 23
2 min read

There’s something about summer that makes me crave ease—easy mornings, easy dinners, and definitely easy outfits. When it’s hot outside and my brain feels like it’s running on 50%, I don’t have time to overthink what I’m wearing. That’s where outfit formulas come in.

These aren’t strict rules—they’re more like building blocks. They help me get dressed faster while still feeling like me. And let’s be honest, the real goal? Looking put-together without sweating through my clothes by noon.

A group of five women showcasing stylish summer outfits in a sunny outdoor setting, surrounded by palm trees. Outfits include dresses, shorts, and casual tops, with accessories like sunglasses and earrings.

Here are 5 outfit combos I’ll be reaching for again and again—and you might want to, too.

1. Breezy Dress + Statement Earrings + Platform Sandals

Two women smiling and walking together in vibrant summer outfits, one in a floral top and pleated orange skirt, and the other in a lemon print dress with yellow heels, both wearing colorful headbands.

A person walking in a vibrant, multicolored dress with ruffled layers, styled with pink crocs, in an outdoor urban setting.

Woman walking on a city street, wearing a striped shirt layered over a floral dress, accessorized with sunglasses and carrying a small purse.

A floaty dress is basically the cheat code to looking cute with zero effort. I love throwing on a midi or mini dress (extra points for bold prints or fun colors), adding a pair of statement earrings, and slipping into platform sandals. You’re done in under 10 minutes—and still giving main character energy.

2. Graphic Tee + Wide-Leg Pants + Cool Sneakers

A person standing in front of a red door wearing a graphic t-shirt, bold printed pants, and chunky sneakers, holding a fluffy purple purse.

A person wearing a vintage Beatles graphic tee, beige wide-leg pants, and sunglasses, posing against a neutral wall.

A person smiling while wearing a black graphic tee with a tiger design, high-waisted black wide-leg pants, and sunglasses, standing in a bright indoor setting.

This is one of my favorite laid-back looks. Grab a bold graphic tee (bonus if it’s thrifted), pair it with wide-leg pants or trousers, and finish with sneakers that add some personality. It’s comfortable enough to run errands but still feels styled and intentional.

3. Linen Button-Down + Denim Shorts + Slide Sandals

A person wearing an oversized blue button-down shirt, denim shorts, and blue high-heeled shoes, standing in a stylish indoor setting with plants.

A woman stands outside wearing a black button-down shirt, high-waisted denim skirt, and sunglasses, holding a fringed clutch. Her accessories include hoop earrings and layered necklaces, complementing her stylish summer look.

A woman posing in a bright, airy room wearing a white shirt, light blue denim shorts, and brown slide sandals, holding a woven bag. She has sunglasses on, with a cozy home decor background.

Linen in the summer? Always. I’ll wear an oversized linen button-down slightly tucked into high-waisted denim shorts, and then add simple slides or strappy flats. It’s the kind of look that feels coastal, relaxed, and just cool without trying too hard.

4. Matching Set + Minimal Jewelry + Bright Lip

Person standing in front of a textured wall covered with vines, wearing a colorful matching outfit with short sleeves and shorts, holding a light blue bag.

Two women posing outdoors, wearing matching blue and white checkered outfits consisting of oversized shirts and shorts. They hold stylish handbags and display happy expressions.

A person wearing a matching red and white patterned crop top and skirt, standing in a home interior with wooden stairs and bookshelves in the background.

Matching sets are the real MVP. Whether it’s a crop top and shorts or a button-down with matching pants, they instantly look elevated. I throw on some dainty gold jewelry, maybe add a bold lip, and I’m ready to head out the door. No mixing, no matching, no stress.

5. Graphic Tee + Midi Skirt + Chunky Sneakers

A woman stands against a metal wall wearing a white graphic t-shirt with the text 'Cherry Bomb', a red gingham skirt with a ruffled hem, and white sneakers. She accessorizes with large hoop earrings and sunglasses, holding a small red bag.

A woman wearing a yellow oversized Adidas t-shirt paired with a leopard print skirt and pink sneakers, standing in front of a colorful wall.

A woman wearing a white sleeveless top, sunglasses, and a polka dot ruffled skirt stands outdoors, with a red backdrop and mountains in the distance.

This one is for the days when I want to keep it cool and bold. A graphic tee tucked into a midi skirt creates that perfect mix of casual and chic, while chunky sneakers add just the right amount of edge. It’s playful, easy to wear, and always gets compliments—especially when the tee has a fun print or statement design.

No matter which formula I go with, I always try to wear something that feels good. Because honestly, when you feel good in your clothes, it changes everything—your posture, your energy, your day.

Let me know in the comments: which outfit formula is your go-to? Or is there one you’re excited to try this summer?

SKYECHANEL