Fresh Summer 2023 Outfit Ideas To Start Wearing Now
From bright separates to the year-round trouser, wake up your wardrobe with these hot trends.
Cute summer outfits may be the most mood-boosting of all. Warm, balmy weather and the corresponding looks simply have that effect. From the best flowy dresses to the best vacation swimwear—including the best one-piece bathing suits and the best beach cover-up dresses for a complete ensemble—summer fashion always feels lighthearted and fresh. So, when planning out your purchases and go-to formulas this year, looking to the runways and ever-directional street-style scene will ensure an au courant aesthetic.
Of course, staple pieces like simple tanks, white denim, and linen matching sets are seasonal mainstays. However, certain silhouettes are undergoing a redux of sorts, breathing new life into categories like the best summer skirts. The return of the denim maxi skirt is a prime example, which Liane Wiggins, head of womenswear at MatchesFashion, says "is such a great wardrobe staple and a great silhouette for all shapes and heights."
Also on deck? The bubble hem revival. "Refined, sleek skirts at Khaite, longer versions at Proenza Schouler reimagined with a low-waist, and Simone Rocha's metallic mini bubble skirt were all highlights," Wiggins tells BAZAAR. Keep scrolling for more summer-ready inspiration, and shop the pieces you'll need to recreate the best summer outfits through Labour Day.
Related article: 5 Outfits To Get You Ready For Summer
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Slouch Around
Slouchy suiting is already spot-on for summer. A skin-baring bra top and flip-flops make the look more relaxed and breathable.
Photo: Farfetch.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: SLOUCH AROUND
Jacquemus Le Haut Meli Top
This bra top is daring and darling at once.
Photo: Net-A-Porter.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: SLOUCH AROUND
By Malene Birger Povilos Pleated Wool-Blend Twill Wide-Leg Pants
Team these roomy trousers with the matching blazer.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: To The Max
"With noughties style having a resurgence, the denim maxi styled with a simple white tee or tank is a great, modern way to tap into the trend," says Wiggins.
Photo: MatchesFashion.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: TO THE MAX
Raey Split Back Organic-Cotton Denim Maxi Skirt
This classic blue denim maxi skirt is made from washed organic and recycled-blend cotton—so eco-chic.
Photo: Skims.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: TO THE MAX
Skims Fits Everybody High Neck Bodysuit
As they say, the hint is in the name. The beautiful fit of this bodysuit is genuinely universal.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Crop It Like It's Hot
It's all about the cropped blazer this season for a polished take on nostalgia. We love one worn as a top with edgy jeans for a night out.
Photo: SaksFifthAvenue.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: CROP IT LIKE IT'S HOT
AKNVAS Stone Wool-Blend Cropped Blazer
This statement blazer is giving us a Material Girl meets Working Girl crossover—we're so here for it.
Photo: EbDenim.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: CROP IT LIKE IT'S HOT
EB Denim Vintage Chain Pants
These chain jeans are a moment.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Nothing But Net
You may typically wear a netted dress waterside, but why not have a city moment by styling one with a cropped shirt layered atop for dinner?
Photo: Net-A-Porter.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: NOTHING BUT NET
Christopher Esber Crochet-Knit Cotton-Blend Maxi Dress
We love the counterbalance of this form-fitting silhouette beneath a structured white shirt.
Photo: Almina-Concept.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: NOTHING BUT NET
Almina Concept Cropped Long Sleeve Shirt
The raw hems add to the contemporary nature of this cropped silhouette.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Beat The Heat In A Cabana
Shirt, that is. The tension of a bra with the menswear-inspired top and jorts is too good.
Photo: TomboloCompany.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: BEAT THE HEAT IN A CABANA
Tombolo Sunny Disposition
We're here for a classic tropical print, but how fresh are these daisies?
Photo: SaksFifthAvenue.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: BEAT THE HEAT IN A CABANA
Levi's 501 High-Waisted Denim Shorts
The iconic 501 fit never fails.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Bubble Up
When giving the season's bubble hem a try, Wiggins says, "Cecilie Bahnsen's hand-smocked voluminous dresses paired with socks and Asics is our favourite way to interpret the trend this summer." For a more breathable shoe option, go with sleek, comfy sandals.
Photo: MatchesFashion.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: BUBBLE UP
Cecilie Bahnsen Fonda Nimbus Puff-Sleeve Cotton-Blend Dress
The tactile cotton-blend matelassé fabric feels so intricate yet airy.
Photo: MatchesFashion.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: BUBBLE UP
Asics Gel-Kayano 14 Mesh and Rubber Trainers
Pastel accent colours steer these into summery territory.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Totes Amazing
Amplify the effect of basics with a supersized tote bag—the result is relaxed with poise.
Photo: Khaite.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: TOTES AMAZING
Khaite The Medium Osa Tote
Style this ultra-roomy tote with Monday through Friday workwear, then pack it for a couple of nights away in place of a weekender.
Photo: SaksFifthAvenue.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: TOTES AMAZING
Another Tomorrow Cotton Crewneck T-Shirt
SAKS FIFTH AVENUENEIMAN MARCUS
Options are truly endless when it comes to a good crewneck tee.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Coast Along
Dial up the mood on a chilly coastal day in a relaxed, all-white look. June gloom, who?
Photo: Net-A-Porter.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: COAST ALONG
SEA Carter Lace-Up Crocheted Wool Top
The intricacy of this crochet cardigan is so enchanting.
Photo: Chloe.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: COAST ALONG
Chloé Lilli Sporty Mule
Why not stick with a crochet theme?
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Marigolden Hour
Light up the room in a cotton poplin dress with dynamic details.
Photo: Tove-Studio.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: MARIGOLDEN HOUR
Tove Ceres Cotton Midi Dress
The beautiful gathering on this dress is so thoughtful—it's unlike any other in your wardrobe.
Photo: Net-A-Porter.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: MARIGOLDEN HOUR
Sydney Evan Large Wavy 14-Karat Gold Diamond Hoop Earrings
Wavy hoop earrings add to the elegant movement of this look.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: So Nauti
A nautical knit is quintessentially summer—a half-zip is our preferred silhouette.
Photo: Kule.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: SO NAUTI
Kule The Matey
This sweater has the perfect boxy fit.
Photo: Net-A-Porter.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: SO NAUTI
Hommegirls Cotton-Poplin Shorts
Crisp and cool, the poplin boxer short is a summer MVP.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Shout Out To The Cut-Outs
While beachy in vibe, Julia Comil proves that the cut-out dress look can be equally appealing in the city. Of course, that Parisian backdrop doesn't hurt a bit.
Photo: Net-A-Porter.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: SHOUT OUT TO THE CUT-OUTS
Isa Boulder Other Reality Open-Back Crochet-Trimmed Knit Midi Dress
Crochet detailing levels up the summery feel of this alluring dress.
Photo: NeimanMarcus.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: SHOUT OUT TO THE CUT-OUTS
Andrea Wazen Mandaloun Squared-Toe Ankle-Wrap Sandals
Honestly, how good is this green?
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Precious Cargo
A sweetheart top brings a darling touch to utilitarian cargo pants for a so-fresh update on summer whites.
Photo: Net-A-Porter.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: PRECIOUS CARGO
Khaite Maddy Ribbed-Knit Sweater
NET-A-PORTERNORDSTROMSAKS FIFTH AVENUE
This knitted top brings the drama, from the sculptural design features to the knuckle-grazing sleeves.
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: PRECIOUS CARGO
TWP Coop Flare Cargo Pants
SAKS FIFTH AVENUENORDSTROMNEIMAN MARCUS
Contrast stitching adds depth to this tonal summer look.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: How Low Can You Go?
Low-rise pants have officially returned, from jeans to trousers and casual chinos. The vibe is relaxed and right on for summer.
Photo: FarFetch.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: HOW LOW CAN YOU GO?
Chanel Pre-Owned 1990-2000s CC Striped Knitted Top
This pre-loved striped Chanel top strikes a '90s nautical tone flawlessly.
Photo: MiuMiu.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: HOW LOW CAN YOU GO?
Miu Miu Chino Pants
Pro tip: Size up in this menswear-inspired chino for that effortless slouch.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Weave Around
Nothing says summer like woven accessories and a vibrant cotton poplin dress.
Photo: Prada.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: WEAVE AROUND
Prada Raffia Tote Bag
Without question, this Prada is one of the best straw bags.
Photo: Hermes.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: WEAVE AROUND
Hermès Carlotta Mule
This sleek clog is a modern take on a boho style.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Slash It
The summer urge to show skin is real. Rethink your approach with a micro top and side-slashed jeans.
Photo: BergdorfGoodman.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: SLASH IT
Cult Gaia Viola Cutout Knit Top
Three cheers for a top with built-in jewelry.
Photo: Net-A-Porter.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: SLASH IT
Maison Margiela Cutout High-Rise Wide-Leg Jeans
These jeans are too cool, from the faded wash to the slouchy legs and side slashes.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: How Romantic
Flat minimalist sandals temper the formality of a romantic dress for daytime.
Photo: LaLigneNYC.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: HOW ROMANTIC
La Ligne Villanelle Dress
Between the corseted waist and full pleated skirt, this linen blend midi is giving old-world elegance.
Photo: EmmeParsons.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: HOW ROMANTIC
Emme Parsons Susan Slide
String sandals are the way to master summertime minimalism.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Blue Jean Baby
A baby tee is key in the heat—baggy jeans and a boxy blazer are excellent counterbalances.
Photo: Everlane.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: BLUE JEAN BABY
Everlane The Ribbed Baby Tee
This clay colour is our new neutral obsession.
Photo: Dissh.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: BLUE JEAN BABY
Dissh Rowan Mocha Signature Blazer
This Aussie brand is one of our well-priced favourites for modern staples.
Related article: Grown-Up Ways To Wear A Crop Top And Not Feel Naked
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Crop Up
Let us not forget the cropped knit with seasonal brights—the perfect look when a summer breeze strikes.
Photo: ALCLTD.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: CROP UP
A.L.C. Hallie Rib Knit Cardigan
The minimalist cut of this cardigan is too good.
Photo: JCrew.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: CROP UP
J.Crew Full-Length Sydney Wide-Leg Pant
Sunshine yellow chinos for summer? Without a doubt.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Well Vested
The vest suit is here to stay. Freshen up the look for summer with a pretty shade of rose.
Photo: MyTheresa.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: WELL VESTED
Frankie Shop Gelso Vest
Frankie Shop is the ultimate go-to for contemporary suiting separates.
Photo: MyTheresa.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: WELL VESTED
Frankie Shop Gelso High-Rise Wide-Leg Pants
The roomy wide legs make these entirely tolerable in the heat.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Show One's Colours
Amplify the effect of stripes by accessorising with a colourful bag that picks up a tone in the motif.
Photo: SaksFifthAvenue.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: SHOW ONE'S COLOURS
Veronica Beard Radley Striped Halter Maxi Dress
SAKS FIFTH AVENUESHOPBOPNEIMAN MARCUS
We love the unexpected play of lilac and yellow together in this striped halter dress.
Photo: BergdorfGoodman.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: SHOW ONE'S COLOURS
Loewe Flamenco Mini Napa Drawstring Clutch Bag
This soft drawstring clutch is officially a cult classic from Loewe.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Good Sport
A black sports bra styled as a top instantly modernizes classic white linen tailoring. J'adore the graphic punch.
Photo: US.MaxMara.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: GOOD SPORT
Weekend Max Mara Linen Blazer
You can't beat classically tailored linen for summertime sophistication.
Photo: SaksFifthAvenue.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: GOOD SPORT
Splits59 Sara Airweight Sports Bra
SAKS FIFTH AVENUEBACKCOUNTRYSHOPBOP
Airweight is anything but an exaggeration—a.k.a totally heatproof.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Yeah, Bra
Another way to beat the heat in a long denim skirt? With a bra top. Your choice if an added layer feels necessary.
Photo: MyTheresa.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: YEAH, BRA
Live The Process Neptune Ribbed-Knit Bralette
Live The Process makes our favourite luxuriously soft ribbed staples.
Photo: Zara.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: YEAH, BRA
Zara ZW The Stretch Denim Pencil Skirt
Since Agolde's Hilla denim maxi skirt is nearly sold out everywhere, get on the waitlist for this coming-soon style from Zara.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Parachute In
If you're in your baggy pants era, don't be without a swishy pair of parachute pants. Minimalist extras elegantly ground them while nodding to the aughts. This asymmetrical white tank top and square-toe sandals? So good.
Photo: FarFetch.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: PARACHUTE IN
Dion Lee Toggle Parachute Pants
Obsessed doesn't even begin to describe how we feel about these toggle drawstring pants. The same goes for this Agolde tank.
Photo: ShopBop.com
EST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: PARACHUTE IN
Gia Borghini X Rosie 1 Sandals
Give them glamour in these satin square-toe mules.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Full Circle Skirt
Summer whites, but make it office appropriate in crisp cotton separates. The full skirt is fully back this season.
Photo: MadeWell.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: FULL CIRCLE SKIRT
Madewell Signature Poplin Short-Sleeve Button-Down Shirt
Real talk: Madewell has the short-sleeve button-down shirt thing on lock.
Photo: TheReformation.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: FULL CIRCLE SKIRT
Reformation Lucy Skirt
The cotton poplin fabric maintains a structural shape while pulling away from the body—a beautiful thing in the heat.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Bathing Suit Beauty
Take your bikini top from the beach to the streets. The look is legit when paired with an open shirt and high-rise trousers.
Photo: Miaou
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: BATHING SUIT BEAUTY
Miaou Bambi Top
This bikini top is begging for a breezy yellow layer.
Photo: ModaOperandi.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: BATHING SUIT BEAUTY
Favorite Daughter The Favorite High-Waisted Pleated Pants
A kick flare gives these black trousers a summer-perfect feel.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Orange You Glad?
There's nothing like a bold colour to usher in a new season—even better if it's an equally bold silhouette, like an oversize button-down linen shirt.
Photo: Stories.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: ORANGE YOU GLAD?
& Other Stories Oversized Patch Pocket Shirt
Whether buttoned or worn open, this oversized linen style is a summertime hero piece. We even love it atop swimwear at the beach.
Photo: SaksFifthAvenue.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: ORANGE YOU GLAD?
Agolde 90s Straight-Leg Pinch-Waist Jeans
You can't beat the fit of Agolde's '90s-inspired straight legs.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Breeze Along
The fluidity of pleats feels breezy and elegant with white trousers—so polished for dinner or the office.
Photo: SaksFifthAvenue.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: BREEZE ALONG
Co Pleated Puff-Sleeve Top
We love a good puff sleeve.
Photo: MyTheresa.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: BREEZE ALONG
Aya Muse Polaris Wide-Leg Linen and Cotton Pants
The slitted kick-flare silhouette adds to the airiness of white linen.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Don't Sweat It
Take leisurewear into summer via a short-sleeve sweatshirt top in a bright colour for a seasonally apropos punch. We love the sporty offset it brings to a slimmer-fit dress.
Photo: BleuSalt.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: DON'T SWEAT IT
Bleusalt The Slip Dress
Behold the comfiest slip dress for a directional leisure moment. Oh, and it has pockets.
Photo: Nylora.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: DON'T SWEAT IT
Nylora Libby Hoodie Top
This soft yellow shade pairs beautifully with camel tones.
Photo: Getty Images
Best Summer Outfit Ideas: Good Tee
But have you considered swapping your baggy sweats for trousers? Similar comfort, but way more polish.
Photo: SaksFifthAvenue.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: GOOD TEE
Saint Laurent Collegiate Logo T-Shirt
This tee is proof you should be shopping men's sections. The broken-in silhouette offers the perfect slouch—if you don't love to tuck your tops in, try snipping it to bare a little midriff.
Photo: Aritzia.com
BEST SUMMER OUTFIT IDEAS: GOOD TEE
Babaton Agency Pant
Lean into the slouch further by styling these trousers with flats instead of heels.
This article originally appeared in Harper's BAZAAR US.