Summer in the city can be hot and sticky, but every sunny day is like a vacation to me. Even when I’m doing my usual routine, there is just something about summer that brings an easy-going vibe to the city and its inhabitants and makes even the most mundane errands more fun. This relaxed attitude translates to the clothing New Yorkers wear as well. On hot summer days, with average temperatures in the 80s and above, women tend to wear clothes that are more effortless and practical, but still look chic and put together. New York is a walking city, so footwear (aka comfortable walking shoes) needs to be considered as well. This post covers stylish outfit ideas for spending time in the city this summer. Whether you are a local or just want to look like one, here are the summer trends you need to know.
SKIRTS:
If you’re a native New Yorker or packing for a summer trip to the city, a skirt (or 2 or 3) are a must. The first thing is that they are breezy and comfortable, but second is that they can be styled with so many different things to dress them up or down. Tank tops and button-down shirts are the two styles-du-jour to pair with skirts and help keep you cool on hot summer days. There are a few trends for skirts including the denim maxi, the wrap (or sarong) skirt, the full cotton midi, and the slip skirt.
WHITE MAXI DRESSES:
One of the best things about summer has to be throwing on an easy, flowy dress and instantly looking put together. While New Yorkers tend to wear dark colors, this year the little black dress has been swapped out for full white maxi dresses. It’s a great item to beat the heat and can seamlessly take you from day to night. Start your day with comfortable sandals for walking the city streets and later swap them out for high heels to take you to happy hour. (Because everything is better with a cocktail in your hand!) No matter the dress code, the white summer dress is a great option to take you anywhere you want to go.
ALL ABOUT SHORTS:
This year denim shorts have been replaced with more sartorial, lightweight pieces. Paired with vests and button down shirts, this look is a good choice for work or play. From short shorts to bermuda lengths, these styles are primarily in neutral colors and are perfect for staying cool in the warm weather. Wear with ballet flats or sandals to complete the look.
PAJAMA DRESSING:
Pajama dressing is a great choice for exploring the city this summer. While not every day is a weekend, we can still dress like it is! In lightweight, breathable fabrics, these pieces be worn paired in sets, dressed down with a basic tee, or dressed up with a blazer. It’s all about how you choose to style yours. Adding mesh flats or jellies are a great way to beat the heat and stay on trend.
JEANS
This time of year is often too hot for jeans, but if you’re a denim-everyday type of girl opt for wide-leg styles this season. Your favorite tee or tank is all you need for a modern, minimalist, summer-in-the-city look. Plus wearing jeans is an easy way to style any shoes including stylish sneakers, ballet flats, or your favorite sandals.
SPORT STYLE:
The latest city trend is sport style. It makes sense with the tour-de-France happening now and the Olympics in Paris quickly following. While New Yorkers don’t tend to wear a lot of bright colors, track pants and shorts are a fun way to get a little pop of color into your outfit and take part in the trend. Another great choice to get in on the sporty look is to wear an active set like bike shorts and a long-length bra or matching tank. Active pieces make it easy to wear comfortable sneakers like running shoes when you have a lot to get done. You can also bring the country club look complete with a tennis skirt, a retro polo, and white sneakers. Game, set, match.
