After months of cold weather and grey skies, we’re ready to turn up the heat with these cute and trendy summer outfit ideas! This is the time to shed your cozy cardigans and bare a little skin — and this year, we’re raising temperatures with trendy micro mini hemlines, soft sunny-hued summer outfit inspo, and bold floral fit designs.
So to help you achieve your hottest summer yet, we’re breaking down the top fashion trends for summer 2024, plus our favorite outfit ideas and inspo to get the look. Whether you’re searching for a cute outfit for your tropical getaway or looking for ideas to spice up your summer wardrobe, this guide has it all!
Is it getting hot in here?
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Everything You Need to Know to Put Together Trendy + Cute Summer Outfits
No matter what style or aesthetic you’re leaning toward this summer, we’re breaking down all the top fashion trends and outfit ideas to make it your most stylish season yet. From our tips for looking hot while staying cool, to the must-have accessories for all your summer outfit ideas, consider this your ultimate fashion inspo guide for the summer months. Let’s get into it!
Our Favorite Summer Fashion Trends for 2024
Summer is our favorite time of the year to try out new fashion trends and experiment with bold outfit ideas — and this year the trends are hotter than ever. Keep scrolling for the summer fashion trends that are currently all over our summer inspo mood boards for 2024!
- Butter yellow: If cherry red was the color of fall, butter yellow is the color of summer! This soft creamy hue is set to be the focal point of all our summer outfit ideas, and we couldn’t be more obsessed. From dreamy yellow dresses to cute yellow heels, this fashion trend will add a sunny touch to any summer fit.
- Micro shorts: Summer is the season we finally get to bare some leg, and this fashion trend is taking that bare-all look to the next level! Micro shorts are a bold (and surprisingly wearable) twist on the micro mini skirt trend we saw last summer, with hemlines that barely skim your thighs. We can’t think of a better way to show off your summer tan.
- LWDs: Here at GWS, we have a certain affinity for white dresses, so obviously we’re pretty stoked about this summer fashion trend. Give bright hues a break this summer and opt for classic white minis, midis, and maxis instead. They’re perfect for any style and occasion — plus the accessory options are endless!
- Matching sets: As much as we love putting together cute and trendy outfit ideas, summer is the season when we just want something easy and breezy to throw on before we run out the door. Enter: matching sets! One of the top fashion trends for summer 2024, co-ords make summer dressing so easy. Style the top and bottom together for a fool-proof summer fit, or mix and match for unlimited outfit ideas.
Necessary Basics – Tried and True Summer Outfit Essentials You Can Use for Multiple ‘Fit Ideas
Listen: we love trying out the latest trends as much as the next fashion lover, but your summer wardrobe can’t only consist of statement pieces. Equally important are the basic items that tie all your summer outfit ideas together. Think of them as the building blocks of your capsule wardrobe — they’re the tried-and-true essentials you’ll be reaching for year after year to create all your favorite ‘fits.
So before you stock up on the top fashion trends this summer, make sure you have these essentials in your closet first!
- Denim shorts: No summer wardrobe is complete without a cute pair of denim shorts. We don’t make the rules! While short trends may come and go, a classic pair of denim cut-offs will always be essential for your summer outfit ideas. Opt for a comfortable and flattering silhouette in a medium wash for maximum versatility.
- A classic white top: While denim shorts are a must-have for the bottom half of your summer outfit ideas, a white shirt is essential for the top. White goes with everything and won’t retain heat like black, making it our go-to in the summer months. Choose a silhouette that reflects your personal style, whether that’s a classic button-down or a cute tank (or both).
- A breezy dress: Not only are sun dresses super cute, but they’re also one of the easiest outfit ideas for those extra hot summer days. In addition to the trendy styles in your closet, we also suggest stocking up on at least one timeless silhouette you can wear for years to come. Whether it’s a mini, a midi, or a maxi, opt for a neutral color or classic print in a breathable fabric like cotton or linen.
- Flowy pants: We’re all about showing some skin in the summer, but sometimes your outfit ideas call for a little more coverage. In these cases, you’ll want a pair of cute and breezy pants that won’t weigh you down. A flattering wide-leg style will take you from the office to the beach, and back again!
- Sandals: They’re the finishing touch to all your summer outfit ideas, so you need sandals that are both stylish and functional. Slide into a pair of neutral sandals that will keep you cute and comfortable as you step into the warmer months.
How can you spice up your summer outfit?
We’ve all been there: after weeks of scorching hot weather, you’ve resorted to the same tank top + denim shorts combo to carry you through the heat. To help you avoid that summer fashion rut this year, we’re breaking down some of our favorite inspo and ideas for spicing up your summer outfits!
The easiest way to instantly elevate a boring summer fit? Accessories, accessories, accessories. Cute statement accessories are one of the top fashion trends for summer 2024, and they’re also one of the best ideas for adding a little heat to your outfit.
Go whimsical with a trendy rosette necklace, or embrace all things mermaidcore with bold seashell earrings. Even a cute floral hair scarf or some trendy kitten heels will take your basic summer outfit ideas to hot heights! And don’t forget the most important accessory for summer: sunglasses. Make yours count with a rad retro style or a bright and bold color!
Another one of the best ideas for spicing up your summer outfits? A bold manicure! Check out our list of the best summer nail ideas to elevate your seasonal outfits.
How can you keep your summer ‘fit stylish when it’s hot outside?
The best summer outfit ideas help you look hot without feeling hot, even when temperatures reach scorching levels. To ensure your summer fit stays stylish when it’s hot outside, we suggest opting for lightweight and breathable fabrics, like cotton, linen, and chiffon. Loose and airy silhouettes are also a must, so trade your bodycon maxis for breezy skirts, mini hemlines, and billowy sleeves. This will give you maximum airflow under the sun — without sacrificing style!
Pastel and colorful outfit ideas are also a no-brainer for hot summer days. Cute and practical, they ooze quintessential summer vibes without absorbing heat like darker colors like black and navy. And as a bonus, soft hues like pastel yellow and baby blue are also one of the top summer fashion trends for 2024.
This brings us to the moment you’ve been waiting for…our favorite trendy summer outfit ideas!
Cute Summer Outfit Ideas, Inspo and Fashion Trends We’re Loving Right Now
Whether you’re spending the summer soaking up the sun at the beach or sweating it out in the city, we’ve rounded up the best cute and trendy summer outfit ideas to help you beat the heat — and look great while you do it. Plus, we’ve also linked a few on trend accessories to help you spice up your summer fashion game. Read on for the hottest outfit inspo to add to your summer wardrobe!
1. The Perfect Trendy Summer Outfit for Every Occasion: This Breezy White Dress
We’re saying “yes” to this white midi dress! LWDs are one of the top fashion trends for summer 2024, and this midi is our current obsession. From the cute corset bodice to the breezy linen fabric, it’s one of the best outfit ideas for all your summer events — from afternoon picnics to European getaways.
Dress it up with strappy heels or keep it casual with trendy ballet flats….there are no wrong answers here!
2. Summer Outfit Ideas for Showing Some Leg: These Trendy Micro Denim Shorts
Denim shorts are a summer mainstay, and this year they’re shorter than ever! With a barely-there silhouette, these shorts are one of our favorite ideas for turning any summer outfit into an eye-catching (and leg-baring) look. Pair them with a simple tank or flowy blouse for the ultimate summer uniform.
Pro tip: Not ready to fully commit to this micro summer fashion trend? You can recreate the bold look with almost any pair of denim shorts. Just roll them a few times to mimic hot pants, and you’re good to go!
3. Cute Summer Outfit Ideas for Easy Styling: This Trendy Gingham Linen Set
When you want to look chic but don’t want to spend a bunch of time getting dressed, this fit will get the job done. Two-piece sets are one of our favorite trendy outfit ideas for the summer — they’re cute, they’re comfortable, and they look like you put WAY more effort into your styling than you did.
Plus, you can mix and match the top and bottoms of this cute linen set for endless summer outfit ideas. Obsessed.
4. Summer Outfit Ideas for a Pop of Color: This Trendy Butter Yellow Mini
Our hearts are melting over this sweet yellow mini! If you’re looking for an easy way to try out the butter yellow fashion trend, it doesn’t get better than this cute summer outfit. Made with 100% cotton, its the definition of easy, breezy, and beautiful.
Style this mini with heels for date night or throw it on over a bikini for the beach. Either way, it definitely deserves a spot in your summer wardrobe.
It should come as no surprise that our favorite summer outfit ideas are dresses — and we’ve rounded up even more of our faves to add to your summer wardrobe!
5. Summer Outfit Ideas for an Elevated Look: This Cute Cherry Slip Dress
A slip dress will always and forever be one of the best outfit ideas for summer. It instantly makes you look polished, even on the hottest summer days. And with over 100 raving reviews, this silky midi is the best one to add to your summer outfit lineup. It’s the ~cherry~ on top of your summer look!
7. Cute Summer Fit for Manifesting Blue Skies: This Trendy Powder Blue Mini
If sunny yellow isn’t your vibe, this powder blue hue is the other color that’s been making waves for summer. Soft and subtle, it reminds us of clear skies and calm ocean waters. Pretty perfect for your summer outfit ideas, amiright?!
While there are tons of ways to incorporate this fashion trend into your summer outfits, this linen mini is our fave. Styled with simple sandals, it’s the fit we’ll be reaching for all summer long.
8. Cute Summer Outfit Ideas for a Casual Vibe: These Trendy Wide Leg Barrel Jeans
Barrel jeans were one of our favorite fashion trends for 2023, and the same goes for summer 2024! With a breezy wide-leg style, they’ll keep you looking AND feeling cool in the hot weather.
If you’re searching for inspo on how to wear barrel jeans during the summer months, you can’t go wrong with this casual western-inspired outfit. Pair them with a trendy belt and a flowy white top for the perfect casual summer fit.
9. Trendy Summer Outfit Inspo for a Botanical Look: This Cute White Floral Romper
Channel your favorite summer blossoms with this cute outfit inspo! Because why settle for a simple botanical print when you could rock this whimsical textured design instead? With 3D embroidered flowers, this romper takes the summer floral fashion trend to the next level, and we are in love.
13. Trendy Summer Outfit Inspo for Your Next Vacay: This Cute Blue Floral Matching Set
This outfit checks off two of the top summer fashion trends for 2024: matching sets and that baby blue hue. We love!
Rock the two pieces together for a cute mini dress design, or style the top and skirt separately for more casual summer outfit ideas. With so much outfit potential, it’s the perfect set to pack for your next summer vacay!
14. Summer Outfit Ideas for an Active Lifestyle: This Strapless Wide Leg Jumpsuit
Never underestimate the power of a good jumpsuit. It’s cool. It’s comfortable. And it’s the perfect plus-one for all your summer activities, from biking to lounging on the sand. Oh, and did we mention that this one has pockets? Say no more!
15. Summer Outfit Ideas for Retro Vibes: This Trendy Rosette Midi
The rosette fashion trend has been going strong for a while now, and this is one of our favorite ideas for incorporating it into your summer outfits. Lean into the whimsical + retro vibes by styling this dreamy floral midi with cat eye sunglasses and a bold red lip. Because if there was ever a time to add a little drama to your wardrobe, it’s the summer months!
Pro Tip: If you love this floral fashion trend as much as we do, a rosette necklace is a super simple way to elevate all your summer outfit ideas. Style it as a choker with any outfit, or wrap it around a purse or shirt strap for a cute and playful detail.
16. Cute + Comfortable Summer Outfit: These Trendy Striped Boxer Shorts
Prepare to see versions of this trendy outfit EVERYWHERE this summer! While boxer shorts may not be the first thing you think of when it comes to summer outfit ideas, they’re one of our favorite trends for the season. Not only are they super cute, but they’re also MUCH comfier than denim shorts. We love!
To avoid looking like you’re wearing pj’s in public this summer, style these cute boxer shorts with elevated outfit ideas, like a trendy baby tee and your favorite gold jewelry.
19. Cute Summer Outfit Idea for Pool Days: This Trendy Chartreuse Gauze Maxi
For those extra hot summer days when you wish you could wear nothing at all, this airy outfit is the next best thing. Made with ultra-lightweight gauze and featuring a low scooped back, this bright maxi guarantees maximum airflow — as well as maximum style. Perfect for pool days, beach days, and every day in between.
21. Cute Summer Outfit Ideas for Nostalgic Vibes: These Trendy Gingham Capri Pants
Love it or hate it, the capri renaissance is officially upon us. If you’ve been looking for a cute way to style this divisive summer fashion trend, this gingham matching outfit is one of the easiest (and most wearable) ideas. It’s cute and flattering, with a retro style that has us dreaming about summer picnics.
Want more trendy summer outfit ideas for these cute capri pants? You also can’t go wrong with a simple black or white baby tee and some simple ballet flats. We may just be on board for this fashion comeback!
22. Cute Summer Fit for a Bit of Drama: This Blood Orange Linen Maxi
Embrace your inner Hollywood starlet with this cute summer ‘fit! This is another one of our favorite retro-inspired summer outfit ideas, with a bold linen silhouette that’s equal parts eye-catching and breathable. And that blood-orange color? SO GOOD.
23. Trendy Summer Outfit for Cool Girls: This Edgy Denim Fit
Not a fan of feminine dresses and flirty florals? No prob — this outfit is one of the best ideas for people who love an edgier, city-chic vibe during the summer months.
Just replace the classic summer skirt and sandals outfit with these wide-leg jeans and trendy buckle flats. Styled with a slicked-back bun and a bold red manicure, it’s a cool girl take on summer fashion trends.
24. Cute Summer Outfit Ideas for Minimalists: This Simple Cream Midi
Sometimes, the best summer outfit ideas are actually the most simple. Case in point: this minimalist midi! Whether you’re running to the farmer’s market or wandering through the streets of Italy, this outfit will help you look impossibly chic — no effort necessary.
Just style it with some casual strappy sandals, and you have the perfect unfussy summer ‘fit.
25. Cute Summer Outfit Ideas for Maximalists: This Bright Orange Blazer + Skort
On the other end of the spectrum, this is one of the best summer outfit ideas for maximalists who love to stand out! There’s something about this blood orange color that we can’t stop thinking about this summer — and we have a feeling it’s going to be a major fashion trend by August.
Channel the bold hue with this chic matching set (which is actually a skort instead of a skirt…bonus points for comfort and coverage!) and a contrasting pair of heels. There’s nothing subtle about this trendy summer outfit, but that’s what makes it so cute.
26. Trendy Summer Fit for Playing in the Sand: This Cute + Colorful Crochet Set
Some summer outfit ideas just belong on a beach, and this crochet set is the perfect example. With an airy knitted style and cute pastel colors, it’s made for layering over a swimsuit or throwing on to watch the sunset from the sand.
No matter where your summer takes you, this is one of the best outfit ideas to have in your beach bag. All that’s missing are some sandals and a tan!
27. Cute Summer Outfit Ideas for Special Events: This Textured Green Midi
Need some formal outfit ideas for your hot summer events? We understand the struggle of trying to look hot (and appropriate) while also staying cool. Enter: this elegant green midi!
With a lightweight textured fabric and a trendy sleeveless silhouette, this cute outfit will keep you from overheating as you sip cocktails at a summer ceremony or elegant garden party. Plus, the mock neck design and midi hemline will also ensure you’re following the dress code — and looking great while you’re at it.
32. The Perfect Summer LWD: This Trendy White Mini
We’ve included the perfect white midi dress. The perfect white maxi skirt. And the perfect white two-piece set. Now all that’s missing on this list of summer outfit ideas is the perfect white mini!
Introducing: this cute and comfy LWD. This outfit inspo takes this summer fashion trend to the next level with a trendy drop waist silhouette and cute feminine details. Style it with cute statement shoes for all your summer outings!
33. Trendy + Versatile Summer Outfit Ideas: This Cute Pink Bodycon Maxi
If you’re looking for fool-proof summer outfit ideas that will look cute no matter the occasion, this trendy fit is IT. A bodycon maxi is one of the most versatile silhouettes out there, and it’s so easy to throw on during the hot summer months.
Take the look to the next level with a pop of color (like this hot pink or this guacamole green), and you have the simplest summer outfit inspo that’s anything but boring.
34. Trendy Summer Outfit Ideas for Preppy Vibes: This Cute Knit Polo Set
We’ve been seeing cute polo outfit ideas everywhere lately, and they’re officially one of the top fashion trends for summer 2024. But this isn’t your average polo outfit inspo — instead, we’re loving bright colors and fun textures for our summer fits.
With a green and pink color palette and cozy cotton design, this polo set is preppy, it’s cute, and it’s the perfect outfit for your next pickleball tournament!
Get Summer Ready With Our Favorite Seasonal Fashion Guides
Looking for even more cute and trendy outfit ideas for summer? We’ve got you covered with these on trend summer fashion guides and outfit inspo for every occasion.
Starting with one of our favorite summer outfit ideas: a cute sun dress! We’ve rounded up all the best minis, midis, and maxis for the hot summer months, including cute designs for every style.
Headed to a concert this season? Don’t miss our list of the best concert outfit ideas — perfect for summer music festivals, the Taylor Swift Eras Tour, and beyond!
Speaking of summer events, we’ve also found the best summer wedding guest gowns for every dress code, as well as cute bridesmaid gowns for the wedding party.
And no matter what outfit you’re wearing, these summer nail ideas are the perfect finishing touch to your look. Bring on the bright nail polish!
Which of these cute and trendy summer outfit ideas were your fave? Let us know in the comments below!