Most people equate warm-weather dressing with lots and lots of skin. As soon as the first day of spring rolls around, so do the backless tops, strapless dresses, and super short shorts. Even though plenty of us relish wearing as little clothing as possible when the temps go through the roof, baring it all isn't the only way to stay cool this summer.
Whether you feel that showing a lot of shoulders, cleavage, or back doesn't really suit your style, or side-torso cut-outs just aren't your thing, there are loads of breathable summer clothing options that don't involve wearing a piece of fabric with straps and calling it a top. Plus, those jorts and strapless minidresses never quite cut it for the office, anyway.
So we're looking for loose, airy silhouettes and lightweight fabrics that keep you looking polished and sophisticated without cultivating pit stains by 2 p.m. — and fortunately, the billowy, all-oversized-everything look has been in style for seasons now. Click on for our not-too-revealing warm-weather picks and start building your self-ventilating wardrobe now — you'll be glad you did come July.
A flattering wrap jumpsuit will be your go-to for every summer festivity.
Aritzia Wilfred Brax Jumpsuit, $165, available at Aritzia.
The breeze will flow right through this light cotton top.
J.W. Anderson Balloon Sleeve Top, $585, available at Opening Ceremony.
A sunny dress made for sunny days.
Baserange Sevinc Tee Dress, $209, available at Garmentory.
Less is more with a minimalist one-piece.
Farrow Flight Jumpsuit, $94, available at Need Supply Co.
Wide-leg pants give your limbs some airy breathing room.
Mo&Co. Wide Leg Pants, $480, available at Opening Ceremony.
Dress it up with some pink, featherweight ruffles.
Pepa Salazar Asymmetric Waterfall Top, $975 $585, available at Opening Ceremony.
You may think long sleeves are hot, but balloon sleeves are as cool as can be.
March 11 Embroidered Linen Maxi Dress, $1,260, available at Net-a-Porter.
You can go sleeveless without going full-on muscle-tee.
C/meo Collective Headlines Top, $130, available at Need Supply Co.
Summer weddings, sorted.
Creatures of Comfort Aldo Dress Short Silk Linen, $425, available at Creatures of Comfort.
Sheer is the name of the game.
Few Moda A Dash of Flair Sheer Knit Dress, $119.90, available at Few Moda.
A high neck dress gives the pits plenty of air.
Apiece Apart La Rosa Striped Midi Dress, $575, available at Neiman Marcus.
Butterfly sleeves will catch the wind just so.
Ganni Lee Silk Blouse, $247.79, available at Ganni.
Try some loose, silk shorts instead of tight denim ones.
H&M Silk Shorts, $59.99, available at H&M.
Keep it classy with a sophisticated silhouette that'll never feel stuffy.
Trademark Swiss Dot Tapered Top, $243, available at Trademark.
It doesn't get easier than a simple spaghetti-strap slip dress.
Suzanne Rae Camisole Dress, $545, available at Maryam Nassir Zadeh.
Take pajamas to the street with this comfy, breathable set.
Mr. Larkin Ren Stripe Top, $185, available at Mr. Larkin.
Let your arms and lower back catch the draft.
L'oeil Nelle Top, $68, available at L'oeil.
A square-neckline tank dress is a great way to keep it cool without cleavage overload.
Black Crane Pleats Jumpsuit, $214, available at Mr. Larkin.
Never underestimate a little white dress.
Topshop Overlay Sunddress, $68, available at Topshop.
They call it "cold shoulder" for a reason.
Tibi Satin Poplin Cut Out Dress, $395, available at Tibi.
Short-shorts aren't the only option for practical warm-weather bottoms.
Zara Flowing Trousers with Slits, $35.90, available at Zara.
Balance out a plunging neckline with flowy sleeves and a midi length.
The Fifth Label Better than Sunday Wrap Dress, $121, available at Forever 21.
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