I'm going to make a bold claim: Never before has fashion looked as elegant as it has in 2024, and if the last few months are anything to go by, I can say with absolute certainty that this summer will be very sophisticated-looking indeed. Since the warmer weather kicked in, I've already started seeing some of my favourite social media dressers wearing classic summer outfits, both on home soil and away. That doesn't negate the importance or purpose of bolder, more personality-honing trends, but we can all agree that it's always a great idea to have an array of timeless looks you can rely on for both holidays and day-to-day wear.
So, what classic summer outfits are we starting to see come through? There's a definitive focus on tailoring, be it by way of a waistcoat worn with matching trousers or some denim shorts smartened up with a blazer. Dresses are simple yet chic, with white puff sleeves and black strappy sundresses each proving to be a failsafe option.
On the hunt for chic summer looks I can sport for my upcoming holiday, I've been saving an array of anti-trend outfits for weeks. Below are my 10 favourites, each of which present a way to dress elegantly this season. Scroll on to see them and to shop any pieces you might need to re-create them, though, fortunately, I suspect many items will already live in your wardrobe.
10 Classic Summer Outfits You'll Wear Year After Year
1. White Minidress + Claw Clip + Shoulder Bag
Style Notes: One of my favourite things to wear in the summer months is a pretty white dress. Keep your accessories minimal to further its classic appeal.
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This cotton-blend dress will keep you cool.
You'll want one for your handbag, beach bag and bathroom accessory drawer.
A bag that works in any season.
Mules are a staple summer shoe. They're as chic as a standard heel but give your toes breathing room.
2. Silky Shirt + Long Shorts + Mules
Style Notes: Long shorts are a key buy for 2024. Pair with a silken shirt for a chic fabric pairing that looks expensive, whatever you spend.
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This shirt is almost fully silk, but has a little elastane for a comfortable stretch.
Perfect for adding a little shine to any outfit.
Linen ensures that longer shorts still feel comfortable and cool even on the hottest days.
A sleek slip-on that'll take you from summer into autumn.
3. Vest Top + Sarong Skirt
Style Notes: Sarong-style wrap skirts always make a comeback in the summer months. Enhance the detail at their waist by styling with a simple fitted vest top.
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This matte brown is such a good colour to work with throughout the summer.
The woven texture makes a leather bag feel more fitting for summer.
A good pair of sunnies are a summer staple. A shape like this one feels modern but will remain timeless.
This comes in three minimal colours: white, black and beige.
4. Crop Knit + Cotton Trousers + Trainers
Style Notes: Blue, cotton stripe trousers—yes, the ones that look like pyjama trousers—are an excellent trouser option for the summer months for days indoors, in the shade or on chilly long-haul flights. Thanks to their breathable fabric and roomy fit they're cool but have good coverage. With a drawstring or gathered waist, pair with a cropped top. Tucking something in runs the risk of looking a little messy.
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Grey is a great staple colour that feels light enough for summer outfits.
The perfect size for carrying essentials without lugging a large tote.
These trousers are where comfort and style meet.
A fan-favourite shoe trend that we'll be taking through the summer.
5. Black Sundress + Striped Jumper
Style Notes: Years on and Normal People's Marianne wearing her simple black sundress in Italy still lives rent-free in my mind. Style yours with a jumper slung loosely around your shoulders, just like Harriett King.
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I adore the fitted bodice and flared skirt silhouette.
Statement earrings are always a 'yes' in the summer.
Wear this jumper around your shoulders or waist, and use it when it cools off in the evening.
The perfect complement to the black linen dress.
6. Blazer + Shirt + Denim Shorts
Style Notes: A blazer is a year-round essential but, in the summer months, I think they look their coolest styled with a pair of simple denim shorts. The addition of a collared shirt and ballet flats only adds to the classic feel.
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A linen blend version offers a break from the heat in comparison to wool blazers.
Linen is the fabric to rely on in summer.
These come in a light and dark wash.
Ballet flats are another big shoe trend we're carrying into summer.
7. Striped Shirt + Linen Skirt + Basket Bag
Style Notes: While we're on the topic of shirts, one of the most classic iterations you can invest in is a blue striped Oxford shirt. Wear with a breezy linen skirt and a basket bag to give it a warm-weather overhaul.
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This shirt will go with almost any shorts or trousers.
A swimsuit top works, but I think this mesh bra is a must for days away from the sea.
Trade in your silk and satin midi skirts for a summer-ready linen version like this.
A beach bag with a sleek leather upgrade.
8. Waistcoat + Matching Trousers
Style Notes: Co-ords are a fast track to creating pulled-together, very chic outfits—especially when waistcoats and wide-leg trousers are involved. This is a look you can dress up for weddings or down for balmy summer evenings with the simple switch of a shoe or bag.
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Beige, white and Monikh's butter yellow are all great summer colours for a waistcoat.
A cropped culotte is effortless and breezy.
A woven bag completes this summer look.
When was the last time you wore an anklet? This pretty style is your sign to get one again.
9. Linen Co-ord + Sunhat
Style Notes: Another classic co-ord option to consider? A linen shirt-and-short combination. White makes for a chic failsafe but there are plenty of colourful options on the market right now if you want yours to have more personality.
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A bucket hat, but make it chic.
Leave it loose or tuck it in.
Linen shorts are as comfy as pyjamas but look cooler.
Peep the cute pleats on the toes of these flats.
10. T-Shirt + Loose-Fit Jeans
Style Notes: I don't know about you, but I still heavily rely on my jeans in the summer months. I tend to pivot to wider-leg styles which are cooler to wear on hot days—just add a tee (I like Sarah Louise Blythe's relaxed-fit option) and equally breathable mesh shoes.
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Relaxed fit styles like this are comfier in the heat.
These bubbly baubles remind me of summer.
This pair of jeans is an editor and influencer favourite.
Mesh flats make the most of the trend while keeping your feet comfortable in high temps.
This piece was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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