What to Actually Wear When It's Raining, Pouring, and Sweltering Outside

Published on 8/15/2018 at 6:20 PM

Summer is our ideal season. Let me rephrase that: when it's sunny, clear, and we're sitting on a beach with our friends, Summer is our ideal season. When sweltering Summer days come with a side of stormy weather, that's another thing entirely — and it's a particularly hard thing to dress for.

I once got caught in a downpour wearing bell-bottoms and boots on a sticky NYC day, and barely lived to tell the tale. Lesson learned. Now, I've made it a personal mission to track down some outfits that are heat-wave and rain-day friendly, as well as pinpoint six things that absolutely are not. Soak up the inspiration, add an umbrella, and stay stylish — and dry! — with the tips ahead.

Don't: Heavy Boots

When it's hot and stormy out, rain boots seem like a good idea — until you're sweltering at your desk. Our advice: skip the heavy boots and coat — or if you do opt for boots, swap them out once you reach your final (dry) destination.

Don't: Floor-Grazing Flares

Flared pants offer coverage from the rain, but far too much. You'll find your hem dragging in puddles and end up with sopping wet bottoms from the knee down.

Don't: Fancy Flats

Flats are always far more comfortable than heels, but without any height, there's no barrier between your feet and the puddles. Skip your flats on rainy days, especially pretty pairs that come with embellishments or texture.

Don't: Strappy Sandals

This may seem like an obvious one, but in the Summer, sandals are in high rotation. Just be sure you've checked the forecast before you slide into your favorite pairs. There's nothing quite like slipping and sliding around in your shoes to make you regret your choice.

Don't: White

Breezy white fabrics are our favorite when it's hot and sticky; but they don't look quite as chic when they're soaked and see-through. Best to hang these up on days you expect a downpour.

Don't: Flip-Flops

These always seem like a good idea on hot rainy days. They're so convenient! Who cares if they get destroyed?! In reality, the rubber thong pops off in a puddle and there you are standing barefoot on the pavement.

Now, Some Outfits That Work . . .

Do opt for cool track pants and trainers. Most track pants have moisture-wicking materials that'll help keep you dry. Plus, you can throw on a lighter top, like a crop top or tank, to balance it out and stay cool.

Slip into a pair of cropped denim and some trusty sneakers.

Add a little coverage via a bomber jacket over your favorite Summer dress, and finish with smart, walkable tennis shoes.

The leather jacket may need to come off if it's too hot, but a pair of culottes and a durable flatforms are not only sensible, but stylish.

Just two pieces and you're ready — throw on a midi dress and dad sneakers that can handle some puddle jumping.

Skip full length jeans in favor of jean shorts, a top you can breathe in, and trusty sneakers.

A silky slip dress may be tricky business if it's wet out, but throw on a lightweight jacket and you have a complete outfit. Just finish with smart sneakers or slip-ons.

A pair of combat boots is sensible, but a sweet dress helps add cool-girl appeal to the practical look.

How's this for function and fashion? Just add a lightweight parka and boots to a skirt and blouse or minidress.

As long as the hemline stays well above your ankles, a classic pair of black pants and a duster coat makes for a no-fuss, no-fail look.