We are officially into the dog days of summer! Which means I am on the hunt for some major July outfit inspiration that’ll make me look cool, even if the weather is unbearably hot. Whether you’re heading off on holiday or hanging out at home and trying to beat the heat, staying chic is always top of mind.
There are so many styles to tap into once the weather reaches 25-plus degrees. And don’t think just because temps are soaring you need to ditch the layers! Below, I’ve gathered up some must-try outfits for July that need to be on your mood board.
A peplum top and sequined skirt
This look is one of my favourites. Peplum silhouettes will always be in style. Add in the sequined mini skirt, crochet bag, and coordinating suede kitten heel all in a shade of lawn green, and it’s a look that is clearly paying attention to what’s in right now.
A cropped vest with a pop of colour
Vests and waistcoats are an easy go-to in the summer months. Not only are they stylish, but they’re also comfortable, even on warmer days. Pairing them with a fun pop-of-colour bottom is so chic.
Sheer layers and Mary Janes
Now I know when planning out your July looks, layering isn’t top of mind. But might I point you in the direction of layering sheer pieces? Keeping everything very light and airy, throwing together a thin, sheer, long-sleeved top with a sleeveless V-neck underneath is the look your summer is begging for. All the joys of an autumn outfit without any risk of overheating.
Bermuda shorts and a party top
Bermuda shorts have been all the rage lately. And summer is the perfect time to expand how you wear them. If you’re looking to make shorts a bit more upscale, pairing them with a party top like this will do just the trick.
Everyone's clicking on...
Lace-trim shorts with a simple tee
Lace is one trend that refuses to die out. And I, personally, am glad it isn’t going anywhere. Lace-trim shorts are very popular right now, and they honestly steal the show. Pair them with a simple tee and thong sandals, and you’re out the door.
Denim on denim
I love a good denim-on-denim moment. Opt for summer jeans that won't feel too heavy and pair them with a matching spaghetti-strapped top like this one for a fun, fashion-forward approach that no one should say no to.
All-white with casual flip-flops
For the chill, cool girls, an outfit like this all-white one is perfect on a hot summer day. Turning a typical white T-shirt into a cropped moment and pairing it with white Bermuda shorts and a basic beach flip-flop means you’re serving summer vibes exponentially.
Boat neck top and capri pants
There’s been an influx of capri pants lately, and I’m not mad at that. If you own a pair, throw on a boat neck top with the look, and you’ll instantly have a very fashion girl look on your hands.
One-stop-shop maxi dress
Though I’ve been preaching the art of summer layering throughout this article, I am, in fact, a woman of few layers. When in doubt, throw on a maxi dress, and you’re ready for the day. This green halter version is the perfect look during July – one of the hottest months of the year. Pairing it with a simple sandal and bag makes for a great all-day outfit. Then swap for a pair of heels, and you’re ready for the night, too.
Aiyana Ishmael is the style editor at Cosmopolitan magazine. In her work, Aiyana focuses on the culture of fashion and how it intertwines and shapes the zeitgeist. She is an award-winning journalist from Miami, Florida, and a graduate of the historically Black university, Florida A&M. She is a 2024 Forbes 30 Under 30: Media honoree, and her debut romance novella PASSING GAME is set to release March of 2027 (831 Stories/Simon & Schuster).
