10 ways to wear denim in a heatwave — from maxi dresses to jorts, here's how to look and stay cool

Cosmopolitan

18-06-2025

Denim is a staple in a majority of our wardrobes. However, jeans are probably the last thing you think of wearing when the temperature is skyrocketing. Tight-fitting, heavyweight and complete with plenty of buttons and zips, they aren't exactly a summer-friendly item.
However, there are plenty of different ways to wear denim outside of a traditional jean. While staying cool is obvs top of the agenda, summer is also a time to experiment with your style and try something new. As always, we're here to offer up plenty of outfit inspo, combined with practical tips. Let's get into it.
Maxi dresses were made for summer, but a denim fabric gives the longer silhouette an unexpected twist. Opt for a lightweight, 100% cotton denim where possible to ensure you don't get too hot. We love this wearer's cut-out Zimmermann style — another way to add some breathability.
Utility workwear is a vibe — and featured heavily throughout Resort 2026 collections, including Tory Burch, Stella McCartney and Courrèges. A cargo denim jumpsuit is a ready-made outfit. Choose a style with short sleeves and a baggy fit to make sure you stay cool and comfy. You could even go for a romper with shorter cut legs for ultra-hot days; Wrangler currently has some excellent options.
Midi skirts are everywhere right now — they're easier to navigate than a maxi (no tripping over) and more office appropriate than a mini. This wearer has leaned into the 90's aesthetic in a major way with her scarf belt and bandana.
Waistcoats worn as tops are another way to stay cool and look stylish. Because of the structured fit, you can also forgo wearing a bra — less layers to sweat through! The balance of this wearer's outfit, with the Agolde denim and silk slip skirt, is *chef's kiss*.
Short shorts are the must-have festival wardrobe item of the summer. While you can go classic with a blue frayed pair, why not mix it up a bit, like this wearer in her pastel green Ganni co-ord. Pair with knee-high boots and you're Glasto ready.
The humble denim jacket really comes into its own in summer. A light or bleached wash is perfect for this time of year, and adds an extra dimension to an outfit without adding too much warmth. Throw over your shoulders with any outfit.
Bubble skirts continue to trend, and while they're typically seen in a poplin or similar lightweight fabric, who's to say denim can't get in on the action? Take this wearer's light wash, mini style, worn with a loose-fitting T-shirt and trainers.
It's sleeveless season, and this is probably one of the best ways to wear denim in the heat. The high street is currently chock-a-block with sleeveless denim tops, including Cos, Next and John Lewis. While you could do a double denim set like this wearer, you could also pair with linen trousers or shorts for an easy, breezy combo.
Jean shorts, or jorts as they are more commonly known, have us in a chokehold. Dress up or down, wear them low slung or high waisted, but always keep the fit baggy. See our full guide on what to wear with them here, but shout-out to this heat-ready wearer who has styled hers with a flannel shirt (the perfect lightweight layering piece) and thong heeled sandals.
OK, so we said no jeans but…when else can you wear white ones, if not in summer? Lest we remind you that white reflects heat, so dressing head-to-toe in it is practically science. Make a contrasting statement with a bright and colourful shoe.
Rebecca Jane Hill is the Senior Fashion Editor at Cosmopolitan UK. She has previously contributed to publications including Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire, Harper's Bazaar, Refinery29, The Face, Glamour and Stylist. She started her own magazine, Sister, in 2012 whilst at university. Focused around feminism, fashion and culture, it went on to produce 12 globally stocked print issues, as well as countless events and partnerships. She closed the magazine in 2023.
Rebecca has been an associate lecturer at London College of Fashion since 2018, where she teaches on the Fashion Journalism course. She is a passionate second-hand shopper and is constantly on the lookout for new design talent.