What is your go-to summer outfit formula? I’ve shared my different outfit formulas throughout the years. They often change with the seasons, what I have going on in my life, etc. For example, my outfit formula when my kids were younger is much different than my outfit formula now that they’re older and their summer activities are different. Having your go-to outfit formula for all of the different summer outings and occasions makes it SO much easier and faster to get dressed every day. Which is why I’m excited to share my summer outfit formulas for three popular summer occasions…work, weekend plans, and special events.
PANTS | VEST | CAMI | SHOES | BAG
For The Office: Casual Friday Office Outfit
Although I don’t work in a traditional office setting anymore, I did for many years in my 20’s and 30’s so I understand the need for appropriate, stylish office outfit ideas. If you work in a super conservative office, this might not be the best outfit formula for you, but it will give you inspiration to create one that works for you! Here’s my outfit formula for casual Friday at the office…
Jeans or Pants + Vest + Heels = Perfect Casual Office Outfit
In this look, I’m wearing a pair of super wide-leg, gaucho-style white jeans by Goldsign. I love the look of these jeans and that they really look more like trousers. If you can’t wear jeans in your office swap them out for a pair of white wide-leg pants instead.
I paired the jeans with a fun, but elevated vest by Beaufille. This updated take on suiting is SO on-trend right now and really is perfect for the office or casual everyday wear. I love that you could wear this vest with the matching trousers for a more polished office look or style it with jeans to make it casual. It’s lower cut so I added a ribbed cropped cami underneath. If a vest isn’t your style, opt for a basic white shell and a neutral blazer instead. I completed the look with a pair of See by Chloe espadrilles and a Marc Jacobs handbag. If I worked in an office, I might swap the shoes for a pair of pointed-toe heels. But again, you can take the concept I shared and modify the formula. Always do what works best for YOU!
By the way, if you’re interested in more info about this gorgeous bag (and more of my summer handbag favorites) check out this post next.
For the Weekend: Elevated Casual Outfit
Next up is probably my favorite and most-worn outfit formula for summer…the elevated casual outfit. I’d wear this running errands, out to a casual lunch with friends, to kids’ lacrosse games, etc. It’s very versatile! Here’s my formula…
Shorts + White Top + Sandals = Perfect Elevated Casual Outfit
A great pair of shorts is a must-have in every woman’s closet for summer. In the photos above, I’m wearing a fun skort by Staud that has on-trend cargo-style details I love. The way that the skirt splits in the front is super flattering. This skort is a unique, elevated, and chic piece to add to your summer wardrobe. But your elevated shorts can be a nice pair of denim shorts, some cotton shorts, or even a skirt if that’s what you feel most comfortable and confident in.
I paired the skort with a white gauzy cotton top by Velvet that has already been a heavy hitter in my closet this spring/summer. It’s super lightweight, the V-neckline is flattering, and it’s quite versatile. I’ve worn it with shorts, jeans, and skirts and can’t wait to find more ways to style it. On my feet, I’m wearing a pair of flat slide-on Sam Edelman sandals you’ve already seen me wearing a ton here on the blog and on Instagram. They’re really comfortable, versatile, and easy to throw on and get out the door quickly. If I wanted to elevate this look for a dinner or something dressier, I could swap the sandals for a pair of wedges and swap my tote for a smaller, sleek handbag or clutch.
If you’re interested in more ways to wear the cargo trend, make sure you check out this post.
DRESS | HEELS | BAG | EARRINGS
For The Special Occasion: Event Outfit
Summer means lots of events…weddings, showers, graduation parties, and the list goes on and on. Here’s my simple outfit formula to throw together a fabulous special occasion look…
Dress + Heels + Accessory = Perfect Special Occasion Outfit
A gorgeous, standout dress that does all of the heavy lifting is the easiest way to put together a special event look. I’m wearing a Farm Rio dress that’s a beautiful, bright pink color. There are a few details that make this a standout dress… the summery, beautiful eyelet fabric, scalloped hem, flattering V-neckline, and side cutouts. You might be weary of cutouts, but the placement and size of the cutouts on this dress make it very flattering! The little bit of skin showing on the sides is offset by the longer hemline and elbow-length sleeves. Plus, it’s 100% cotton so you won’t get hot if the event you’re attending is outside.
Pair your standout dress with a chic pair of heels like these Sam Edelman platforms. They’re comfortable (for heels) and I love the basketweave straw fabric that makes them feel very summery. They do have a 5.5” heel so if you’re not comfortable with that height, you can swap them for a lower block heel instead. Finally, complete the look with one or two fabulous accessories! I’m carrying a Cult Gaia handbag that has fun raffia fabric and a unique sculptural shape. My statement earrings by Elizabeth Cole have pearl and crystal details that add just the right amount of sparkle to the look.
If you’re looking for more special occasion or wedding guest dresses, make sure you check out this post and this post too for more options!
What is YOUR summer outfit formula? Please share in the comments below for everyone else to get ideas too!
Huge thank you to Shopbop for sponsoring this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter to receive some incredible style resources. If you’re struggling with style or just need a style refresh, don’t forget about our Style Made Simple course!
Erin Busbee
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