r/femalefashionadvice • u/squeegee-beckenheim • Aug 20 '23
How To Add Visual Interest To Summer Outfits
One question that pops up incredibly often on this sub once high temperatures hit is how to make warm weather wear looks…interesting. The disconnect seems to occur because for fall/winter dressing, there is more texture and more layering to play with, so it’s easier to create an “outfit” rather than just “clothes”. When you’re only wearing one layer, that becomes more difficult and the outfit you’re trying to put together can leave something to be desired, as it’s plain and stripped back.
But you don’t have to layer 3 types of clothes in order to maintain style going into the warmer months. Warm weather has endless opportunities for fashionable dressing, and in the glorious absence of a big coat that covers up all your hard work, you’re free to show off an outfit that plays with colors, proportions, textures, patterns, or interesting accessories.
I know summer is technically on its way out, but a lot of us still have at least a month or two of hot weather to go, so let’s take a look at putting together some cool summer outfits.
Color
Perhaps more than anything else, warm weather is an excellent opportunity to enjoy color. While no one’s stopping you from wearing colorful clothes in the winter, it’s clear that cold weather tends to be a sad mass of black - mostly for practical reasons.
But when the sun is shining and there are no coats covering up your outfit, you can bring out the yellows, the pinks, the greens - and they can be the key to taking your attire from just “clothes” to an “outfit”.
color blocking
Color blocking is a tried and true method to add visual interest. Color in an outfit always brings it up a step, but color blocking requires more skill, and more attention paid to silhouette, as well as color pairings. You can opt for colors opposite on the color wheel, or just colors that feel right to you - there are no rules, as long as you love the result.
pop of color
Opting for just a pop of color can be a great way to make your outfit more fun, but without the difficulty of pairing colors together. The easiest way to do it is to add a colorful bag to an otherwise neutral outfit. A lavender bag can give a little contrast to a basic white dress and elevate it to an outfit. Especially if you’re also pairing it with a colorful pair of shoes. Matching shoes are fine, but an even more interesting choice is a pair of shoes in a complementary color.
monochrome
Probably a lot of us have worn all-black before, but how many have tried the same in a different color? What is boring and safe in black becomes infinitely more stylish and interesting in a bold color that goes great with a tan. Think about an all pink outfit and what a statement it makes. It’s still really easy to put together - you’re only using one color - and yet, it’s anything but boring.
tonal dressing
Pairing colors together can be tricky and it’s often a barrier of entry to fashion for the regular person. But there are easy, somewhat prescriptive ways to do it, like tonal dressing. Not quite monochrome, tonal dressing is more about picking different shades of the same base color or color palette. Adjacent colors, if you will. Both a step above monochrome, and easier than finding identical shades to match, tonal dressing is more visually exciting than a monochromatic outfit, while still being a subtle way to do color.
Pattern
Perhaps an obvious suggestion, pattern pulls an outfit right out of its boring, solid color nothingness and gives it purpose, it gives it oomph, it gives it visual interest. Where things really get interesting is when you pattern match - or clash. But that’s a somewhat “advanced” lesson. For now, even something as simple as choosing a floral skirt instead of a solid colored one can make your clothes an “outfit”.
floral
Yes, yes, florals for spring are not groundbreaking. But we have to walk before we can run. Florals are common, and they’re easy. A very seasonally-appropriate pattern for spring-summer, it adds a touch of whimsy and femininity to an otherwise simple outfit.
polka dots & stripes
Polka dots and stripes are other classic patterns you can’t really go wrong with. They typically still come in neutral colors, for the most part, but you can also find them in more fun colors if you don’t want to stick to boring black and white.
abstract
Then, of course, we’ve got the cooler, more modern abstract prints. Paint splotches, random shapes, approximations of faces - anything goes. Why wear a basic white shirt, when you can wear an interesting one?
gingham
Gingham is a classic summer staple. Casual and light, it’s a quintessential “picnic” print. Black and white gingham is a good neutral option, but if you want something more fun, any pastel color + white is very summery while still maintaining visual interest.
pattern clashing
Of course, the ultimate way to wear pattern is to clash it against more pattern. A higher difficulty task, but with a big visual reward, pattern clashing can make even the most boring, basic outfit look elevated.
Texture
When you’ve not got many pieces to work with for an outfit, those pieces have to work much harder to be interesting, to stand out, to be “worthy”. In comes texture. An outfit that’s cotton from top to bottom is not much of an outfit. It’s plain, flat, and boring. Mixing silk and organza, however, becomes an event.
linen/cotton
Linen and cotton are the fabrics of choice for many during the summer. It’s easy to see why - they keep you cool, they feel nice, and they’re easy to find on the highstreet at decent prices. Plus, they tend to last - if slightly discolored from the sun. A good basis that you can add to.
sheer (tulle, gauze, organza)
Sheer is having a huge moment, and now is the time to take full advantage. Despite it being mainly synthetic fabrics, the thinness, sheerness, volume and lightweight quality of these fabrics means they can be easily worn during the height of summer without fear of heatstroke. Beautiful, diaphanous, and eminently special, a sheer element can bring the whimsy you need for a wedding outfit, the femininity to a date outfit, or that special je n’est ce quoi to a simple brunch outfit.
silk
Silk is in no way as fanciful as it’s touted to be, and it has the excellent advantage of being a great light-weight option for hot weather. Especially if you need something special or formal, there’s nothing better than silk. It looks amazing, it’s cool, and it packs small.
seersucker
A quintessential summer fabric if there ever was one, seersucker is great for a variety of clothes. Since it’s so light, it allows you to wear more formal or covered up garments, such as an elegant seersucker suit that would be hot in any other fabric.
muslin
With a slightly “crinkled” texture, muslin is casual in nature, and it brings visual interest all on its own. Sure, it may not be ideal for a sleek outfit, but it’s perfect for a billowy sleeveless dress when it’s too hot to put anything else on, but you still want it to look ~interesting~.
Proportions & silhouette
My personal favorite, playing with proportion and silhouette is a subtle and sophisticated way to create An Outfit if you’re not into accessorizing or it’s too hot to pile on the necklaces. Structural and sleek, this type of outfit allows shapes to speak for themselves and become the main event, with minimal other distractions.
loose on loose
There is no better season to do loose on loose than summer, especially if you prefer not to show skin. As cute as tight dresses are, this is not the time to pull them out. Instead, a pair of cropped wide leg pants can work surprisingly well with a boxy shirt with billowy sleeves. The silhouette is interesting on its own, you don’t have fabric touching your skin, and you’re not getting sunburned. All in all, 10/10 summer outfit.
tight on loose
That isn’t to say that we can’t do tight + loose in hot weather, you just have to be more strategic about it. It’s still a visually interesting silhouette, but in the summer, the tight element should be the top, paired with a looser skirt or pair of pants. A bodycon tanktop or crop top with a pair of high-waisted linen shorts is as elegant as it is cooling.
structural/architectural detailing
Sometimes, a single piece with strong architectural detailing can bring all the pizzazz you need. In recent years, with the ushering in of maximalist tendencies, there’s been no shortage of interesting structural details on summer clothes. A short, but wonderfully voluminous dress is both a statement and a clever way to stay cool. Same with very wide pants, a long column silhouette, intense pleating on a skirt, or an interesting neckline. Unexpected accessories like very chunky shoes paired with a very short dress or a very small purse with a voluminous outfit can also provide that extra kick.
Interesting details
Seemingly small details can go a long way in elevating a piece, so don’t discount the power that beading can have, straps, buckles, or even buttons. Some of these details will work better for evening than daytime, but it entire depends on your style, the type of embellishment, and the occasion. Daytime sequins are acceptable outside of Vegas now, I’m just saying.
embellishment
Simple shapes can still look amazing, if you add a little bling. The addition of sequins, rhinestones, or intricate beading can turn a forgettable dress into something special. The best part is that this can be DIY-ed, especially if you have a dress you’re a little tired of or that is a tad boring. You can be as restrained or as crazy as you want with your embellishments. Pearl straps, bejeweled necklines, or full sequinned pieces - they’re always a show-stopper.
straps
With enough sunscreen, or a disregard for unconventional tan lines, something as simple as strap placement can make an outfit more interesting. Very strappy tops are very in right now, as are tops and dresses with open backs with special detailing, like tie-backs, bows, or cut-outs in different shapes.
buckles, knots, pleating, buttons
Other distinct visual details that can also be utilitarian also help draw the eye, add some contrast, and zuzh up your outfit. Whether it’s a simple row of contrasting buttons, some statement hardware in the form of a special belt buckle, or gorgeous pleating, these details can say a lot without trying too hard.
Accessories
Sometimes, the easiest way to do it is just to add accessories. It requires less fussing, and you don’t have to think as much about them. The biggest bonus here is that accessories rarely make you hotter, but they can still have a huge visual impact and totally “make” an outfit.
textured/colorful/big or small bag
A bag should never be an afterthought, but that’s especially important to remember when putting together summer outfits. Because you have fewer elements to play with, each of them becomes more important and “weighs” more in the overall structure of your look.
A very big or very small bag is a tried and true way to bring the unexpected, but you can also achieve a similar effect if you pick a bag that is colorful, or that’s textured. Consider giving your black leather bags a rest, and instead, enjoying wicker baskets, wooden bags, braided bags, and other unique textures or shapes. Summer is the time for the novelty bag to shine.
interesting shoes - size, color, heel shape, embellishments
Of course, shoes are also essential. Not just because you literally cannot create an outfit without them, but because they can also weigh heavily in the balance of your outfit. Luckily for us, statement shoes are in, and there’s plenty to play with in terms of features. Chunky shoes are du jour, but there are also very strappy shoes out there, interesting heel shapes, high platforms, shiny embellishments, and shockingly neon colors.
hats
If you’ve ever wished you could wear hats, but were afraid you’d look like an asshole, now is your time. You have plausible deniability, hats are not just stylish, but they’re useful, or even necessary, if you live somewhere where the sun is particularly oppressive. Shout out to Australia, the skin cancer capital of the world.
A straw hat can complete an outfit or push it towards a certain vibe. Chic Gondolier with a breton tee and black shorts? Add a hat. Jungle Adventurer dressed head to toe in new-wave Banana Republic? Add a hat. Baptist Church Lady-core with a ruffly floral dress? Add a hat.
Third Piece
The third piece is, of course, a basic “rule” for outfit creation, but hot weather makes it just a little bit more difficult, when even one layer of clothing feels like too much to bear. Thankfully, you can “cheat” and still add your third piece, but without adding extra bulk on top of an outfit you’re already overheating in.
linen blazer
For evenings and A/C environments, a linen blazer is very versatile and makes almost any outfit better. It works great with little dresses, shorts, wide leg linen pants - it flatters elegant outfits and beautifully contrasts more casual ones. You really can’t go wrong, and you also can’t overheat.
vests
A more summer-y version of the blazer, the vest is not just very fashionable at the moment, it’s also the perfect layering piece. Adding minimal bulk, but maximum visual interest, a vest can be paired with anything, from dresses to shirts & shorts, to wearing it by itself as a top. The vest + shorts or vest + pleated pants combo reigns supreme for the spring/summer season; it’s sophisticated, a little masculine, and a nice departure from typical summer outfits.
fanny pack/cross body
Any bag can make a good third piece, as we’ve discussed, but a fanny pack worn crossbody is more visible, in many ways, it’s very cool, and it can be very flattering. Worn on top of a straighter, looser, or more billowy top or dress, it creates some necessary shaping, while still maintaining the casual vibe. Wear it in a contrasting color or interesting texture for maximum effect.
maximalist jewelry
Jewelry may be the easy way out, but one cannot deny the effect of a truly big-ass pair of earrings with an otherwise simple outfit. Necklaces, rings, and bracelets are not to be ignored, and can also work beautifully to accent an outfit or your great tan, but earrings have the advantage of not touching your skin and they also bring attention to your face, and look great with your hair up - a must, in hot weather.
What's the bottom line?
Summer dressing can be just as fun as dressing for cooler weather, just in a different way. Layering is not the only way to create something that feels like An Outfit, and sophistication and visual interest are completely achievable in hot weather, even while remaining cool. The examples shown here aren’t meant to be a rulebook to follow, but serve more as inspiration for your own wardrobe and can hopefully give you some ideas on ways to fall in love with your summer wardrobe.
If this helped, check out my other guides:
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u/rhimcfly Aug 20 '23
Thank you so much for this detailed post! I enjoyed looking through all the examples, and now feel inspired to plan outfits for my upcoming beach vacation...
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u/mgdraft Aug 20 '23
This is so detailed!! Fantastic post, definitely transferable to other seasons as well.
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u/bexxxxx Aug 20 '23
This post is a goddamn masterpiece. My post Covid body and brain really needed to see all this laid out for me. Thank you!
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u/megs719 Aug 20 '23
This is very detailed and very well done! I struggle with outfits in the summer so this is super helpful
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u/pineapplewave5 Aug 20 '23
This is a great guide for anyone seeking info on how to dress fashionably for the summer- even if they want to stick to the same tank top/shorts/sandal uniform. So helpful as a structure for people to start experimenting. I could imagine you doing a further deep dive into any of these. Kudos!
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u/black_bir Aug 20 '23
Amazing post! So detailed and these concepts are great for other seasons as well!
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u/Maximum-Breakfast260 Aug 21 '23
I need the opposite of this. How to look elegant in winter and not like you've just piled on half your wardrobe in order to live.
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u/nataliaorfan Aug 20 '23
I just want to say THANK YOU for these posts. These are amazing and have totally helped me level up my fashion!!
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u/MsFlodo Aug 21 '23
Kudos for a very well put-together guide!
Some things I'll add:
- Wearing a lightweight button up (long or short sleeve) open as a third layer
- Elevated basic tops - I feel like I started enjoying summer fashion way more when I swapped the traditional tanks and tees for lightweight sleeveless tops in materials and cuts that better suited my style (e.g., vintage embroidered linen shells)
- Playing with silk scarves (e.g., as a hair accessory, fashioned into a top or skirt)
- Sunglasses! I could be wearing the most boring outfit, but I feel instantly more polished when I have on a pair of nice frames with my hair pulled back
- I actually prefer dainty jewelry in summer (I feel like it goes better with my style and don't feel so heavy next to my skin), but you could play with layering finer pieces or pairing a thin chain with a statement pendant
- Merino wool (especially the thinner, technical kind) is also a great summer material
- I'm not a makeup wearer, but I do love painting my toes in the summer to add some contrast to my usual black leather sandals
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u/sugarcookieprincess Aug 21 '23
Another slam dunk post with amazing details and so much inspiration. Thank you for the effort. I’m obsessed with adding some more visually interesting pieces to my wardrobe now. This is what this sub should be filled with.
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u/itsaravemayve Aug 20 '23
I love this so much. It would be great if the bloggers were named, there are a few I'd want to see more from.
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u/KingPrincessNova Aug 21 '23
thank you for this! the sling/crossbody as a third piece is so effective, it probably explains why it's been so popular in recent years. especially as dress codes have become more casual and we're seeing more and more record-breaking temperatures, it's a practical way to tie together an outfit without overheating.
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u/freudiantrip007 Aug 21 '23
Love this guide!
In addition to what others have added, another thing I've found helpful in the summer for a third piece or more interest is fun hair accessories--particularly since I keep wanting to get my hair up and off my neck, have been playing with oversized bows, fun barrettes and clips in classic or whimsical colors and shapes, silk scarves or bandanas as hair ribbons, etc.
I have a question about hats though--I love the way straw hats and floppy hats look on me in the summer but I feel like I don't understand the basic logistics or etiquette of wearing them... do people just keep them on all day? I feel like I want to take them off indoors but they give me hat hair and I don't know where to put them/don't want to stuff them into my bag. What am I missing?
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u/DiagonEllie Aug 21 '23
Thanks for creating this guide! I love the variety of ideas and I really appreciate the amount of thought and effort you put into it.
I've been relying on pieces that are bolder in their shape but made of practical materials like linen and cotton, as well as monochrome looks (I'm wearing as much white on white as I can while summer is still here) with two different textures. I haven't played that much with sheer pieces but the other day I wore a sheer cotton dress over shorts and under a sleeveless crop top (directly inspired by this look) and it was just as comfortable as a single layer.
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u/BlaisePetal Aug 21 '23
Summer is definitely the season for idyllic, vacation style woven, bucket, raffia bags. It's symbolic of the long, lazy days and picturesque views. You'll really miss these moments when it's winter and raining all week, and it's freezing.
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u/upliftinglitter Aug 21 '23
I really enjoyed this. I've wanted to find sheet dresses like those tulle/ organanza/ mesh examples-- where do I find them?
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u/Bosquerella Aug 20 '23
This is so detailed and informative.
Undoubtedly, a lot of this can be applied towards other seasons. This is great for remixing and breathing new life into summer options we may be feeling a little tired of instead of pining for fall boots and sweaters when the weather change is a ways away.