Take the Stress Out of Getting Dressed With These Easy Summer Outfit Ideas

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Summer fashion tends to get a bad rap compared to other seasons, with the sweltering temperatures undeniably limiting options of what to wear. The risk of sweat stains and uncomfortable chafing may tempt you to reach for a tank top and leggings every morning — but just because it's hot outside doesn't mean that your sense of style has to suffer. An airy minidress or a perfect pair of denim shorts can form the foundation for countless different outfit combinations.

If you work from a simple outfit template, adapt it to your style, and have fun with the accessories, you'll be putting together Insta-worthy looks in no time. We decided to make things a little bit easier for you by breaking down four summer outfit templates for various occasions. Keep reading to check out our ideas for what to wear for brunch, work, errands, and a date.

For a Breezy Brunch
bananarepublic.gap.com

For a Breezy Brunch

Everyone's heard of the Little Black Dress, but during the summer, the Little White Dress reigns supreme. The loose-fitting, floaty Banana Republic Poplin Tiered Mini Dress ($129) is our pick for LWD of the season. The beauty of a white dress is its simplicity — it can truly go with anything in your closet. For brunch with your besties, we suggest pairing yours with a pair of delicate flat sandals, like these brown leather thongs ($148) from Reformation. Add a pop of color with the Kate Spade Astrid Crossbody Bag ($139) in Green Jay.

For a Casual Office Look
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For a Casual Office Look

If you haven't already resumed in-person work, chances are you will sometime in the near future. After working from home for so long, the idea of dressing for office may be a little bit daunting. That's where the menswear-inspired button-down comes in. The Caira Shirt Mini Dress ($55) from Princess Polly proves that tailored shirts don't have to be stuffy or boring. Play with proportions by wearing the oversize top with a fitted white trouser, like these stretchy straight leg pants ($149) from Elie Tahari. Finish the look with a pair of loafers. We're into the unexpected metallic sheen of the silver Tod's Gommini Leather Driving Loafers ($545).

For Running Errands
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For Running Errands

It doesn't get any easier than jean shorts and a T-shirt. GRLFRND's distressed denim cut-offs ($160) have a worn, vintage look to them. The best thing about this outfit template is that it's totally customizable. You can wear your favorite thrifted band tee, rep your hometown's baseball team, or go for a plain white T-shirt, like this scoop-neck option ($25) from Banana Republic. While sneakers would work just fine with this look, we also like these fun bandana-print Arizona Love Trekky Sandals ($107). Let this be your everyday uniform, whether you're grocery shopping, grabbing coffee, or getting a mani-pedi.

For a Dinner Date
bananarepublic.gap.com

For a Dinner Date

A shiny satin slip dress, such as this midi-length choice ($129) from Banana Republic, takes all of the hassle out of getting ready for a date. Accentuate the '90s vibes of the dress with a pair of sexy kitten heels. The By Far Lana Sandals ($475) in White Leather can be worn over and over again with tons of different outfits. Lastly, accessorize with a statement clutch, like the Cult Gaia Eos Box Clutch ($378), which is wrapped in linen and adorned with round beads.