12 Chic July Outfits That'll Get You Through the Heatwave

Cosmopolitan

a day ago

You know that "Satan's doorstep" thing everyone keeps talking about? Well, congratulations. You're in it. With the temps hovering between "oh hell no" and "ungodly hot," you probably don't want to wear anything more modest than a string bikini and booty shorts. And, honestly? That's a choice I wholeheartedly support.
That's why when I was sourcing this July outfits mood board, I went with ensembles that can withstand even the most cruel and unusual temperatures. Summer outfits that look hot as hell, but don't feel hot as hell. Ya know?
Ahead, you'll find new ways to wear some of your favorite summer staples—from bra tops and button-downs to slip skirts and capri pants. Bookmark this page for the next time you're contemplating leaving the house totally naked, because these heatwave-proof outfits are the next best thing.
This summer's take on the classic Little White Dress comes straight from your Bubby's kitchen table. Delicate doily dresses are just as lightweight as a classic mesh bodycon, but they look so much more romantic.
Bra as a Shirt Season is in full effect, and the girlies are out here thriving. Pop yours on with a streetwear-style button-down and sneakers for an edgy vibe.
Summertime office attire is the bane of every commuter's existence—sweaty on the train, freezing in the office, repeat. Layers are a key element for staving off this irritating phenomenon. Go for a skirt suit in a trendy color (i.e. chocolate brown) that allows you to take off your jacket when needed.
A chic co-ord is the easiest slay you'll ever serve. Dresses require styling to look put-together, whereas matching sets come pre-paired and ready to wear. Just add some chunky gold jewelry and you're good to go.
Once you've officially sweated through all your tank tops, head straight to your lingerie drawer. Style your sultriest lace number with a blokecore cargo skirt to nail the Instagram baddie vibe.
In just a few short weeks, oversized Bermuda shorts have become the superhero of my own personal wardrobe. They can balance out a nearly-naked bra top just as well as they do an oversized T-shirt—and I highly recommend wearing them with both.
We love an unexpected combo! A sporty polo with a pair of Parisian-esque capri pants makes absolutely no logical sense. And yet, it works so well.
It's Chloé's world, and we're just living in it. Embrace the early-2000s boho vibe with a ruffled dress, statement belt, and a pair of strappy sandals.
Though I would advise against wearing jeans in this heat, even I have to admit: This 'fit is a banger. Balance out all that fabric by pairing your favorite denim with your sheerest shirt. Then add a boujee-ass handbag, for good measure.
Freeze! Step away from the LBD! A little red dress is just as versatile, but feels so much more summery. Reach for one of these the next time you have a summer wedding, dinner party, or promising Hinge date.
This combo is a classic for a reason. A simple white tank styled with a floaty satin skirt will always, always, always give off effortlessly chic vibes. It's a fashion rule that quite literally never fails.
Kelsey (she/her) is a freelance digital fashion editor and writer with a knack for turning top-performing content into top-selling content. She has extensive experience in editorial and e-commerce strategy, having worked in both divisions during her years at Seventeen and Bustle. With more than a decade of experience in digital media, she also offers creative and social media consulting, as well as copywriting services. She enjoys cheeseburgers, traveling, and vintage hauls. Follow her on Instagram at @klstieg.