With another heatwave on the way, I’ve been re-assessing my wardrobe to make sure that I’m prepared this time around. While I want to look chic, my main priority is comfort and staying cool, so I’m opting for basic outfits over anything trend-led. I love elegant and more considered looks, but in the heat we’ve been having, practicality is at the forefront of my mind, and a tassel skirt might look good on the rail, but be less exciting on a sticky commute.
That being said, basics don’t have to be boring. I’m talking about classic wardrobe staple pieces like linen and cotton fabrics and pared-back styles that ensure getting dressed is as fuss free as possible. The goal is outfits that I want to be able to throw on, yet still look polished and put-together as I head out the door.
As my wardrobe is already quite minimalist, I scoured through some of my favourite influencers accounts to get some fresh styling inspiration on how to use the pieces I already own to create brand new looks. A classic striped tee with bermuda shorts or a maxi dress paired with bright flip flops perhaps—these core wardrobe staples can be worn in an array of ways to create new ‘fits every time.
So, with another heatwave rolling around, focus on your suncream and staying hydrated rather than having to worry about what to wear—I’ve compiled five basic summer outfits to give an effortlessly chic yet simple approach to dressing for it.
1. Striped Top + Bermuda Shorts
Style Notes: A striped top is a basic that most of us already own in our wardrobe, but if you’re still devoted to plain white tees, this small update manages to bring this entire look up to date for 2026. Styling it with white Bermuda shorts makes it feel more considered than distressed denim, but still casual enough to wear for every day.
Shop the Look:
M&S
Pure Cotton Relaxed Striped Boxy T-Shirt
M&S is my go-to for core wardrobe basics.
ZARA
Belted Darted Bermuda Shorts
These come in five different colours.
DRAGON DIFFUSION
Santa Croce Big Woven Leather Tote Bag
A leather woven bag can be worn year round, not just for summer.
MANGO
Squared Frame Sunglasses
2. Black Maxi Dress + Bright Flip Flops
Style Notes: As a minimalist, this outfit ticks every box for me. The bright flip flops bring an injection of colour into your outfit, and there’s no going wrong with a black maxi dress. Evening plans abroad, or simply meeting friends in the city, this combination is a failsafe option to throw on and head out while still looking stylish.
Shop the Look:
A jersey dress is so easy to throw on yet still look put-together.
Havaianas
Slim Flip Flops in Red
Does anyone do flip flops like Havaianas?
DeMellier
The Stockholm Shoulder
So chic. Bravo, DeMellier.
Miu Miu
Miu Regard Sunglasses
Oval sunglasses are so on trend right now.
3. Black Cami Top + Linen Trousers
Style Notes: I can’t help but rely on co-ord sets all summer long; they’re an easy, effortless style that still feel smart enough to wear to the office too (especially if you happen to work in fashion). Even if it’s not a perfectly ‘matching’ set, for a simple outfit, pair a black vest with black linen trousers and you’ve constructed your own out of the pieces that flatter you the most.
Shop the Look:
The exact top needed to recreate Emma’s chic look.
COS
Relaxed Linen-Blend Wide-Leg Trousers
Linen fabrics are an essential in summer.
SENSI STUDIO
Shiga Medium Leather-Trimmed Sisal Shoulder Bag
Sensi Studio have such a fun range of raffia bags.
Missoma
Harris Reed in Good Hands Pearl Pendant Necklace
Part of Missoma’s collaboration with designer Harris Reed.
4. Vest Top + White Jeans
Style Notes: Hear me out—jeans don’t have to be a no-go in summer. Wear them on the cooler days in-between, and white jeans in particular will take you from desk to dinner when the temperatures begin to drop. Paired with a basic vest and flip flops, this is a 2 minute ensemble that still says that you thought about your outfit.
Shop the Look:
This can easily be dressed up or down.
ZARA
Jeans Z1975 Straight High-Waist Long Length
Zara is my go-to high-street brand for jeans.
St Agni
Connolo Shoulder Bag
A black leather sandal feels a tad more elevated.
5. Cropped T-Shirt + Poplin Skirt
Style Notes: A monochrome look is such an effortlessly chic option for whatever your plans for the day. Opting for a cropped tee paired with a poplin skirt gives balance to the look and keeps you cool on those hot days, and I love that this look is with a classic mesh ballet flat to bring texture to the final ‘fit.
Shop the Look:
Hollister
Ribbed Baby Tee in White
MATTEAU
Organic Cotton-Poplin Midi Skirt
ALAÏA
Fishnet ballet flats
One of Alaïa’s most iconic shoes.
YSL
LE 5 À 7 SUPPLE SMALL
A worthy investment bag that will last you for years to come.
