Lately, I’ve noticed an uptick in the number of classic, anti-trend outfits landing on the fashion set. I attribute it to the rise of smart shopping habits with an emphasis on buying great staples and investment pieces. No matter where you land on the trend-adoption spectrum, though, it’s always a great idea to have an array of timeless looks on standby.
For the season ahead, there are key buys to add to your closet. Among them are tailored shorts, A-line dresses, leather belts, slingback flats, and top-handle bags. With a small collection of versatile wardrobe staples, you can create a number of polished, easy looks that work season after season. It all comes down to simple styling ideas. For summer, there are already winning outfit formulas to have on hand. Ahead, see the best classic summer outfits to wear this year.
5 Classic Outfits Everyone Will Wear This Summer:
1. V-Neck Top + A-Line Skirt + Mules
Style Notes: This A-line skirt outfit feels so fresh for summer. It’s a great way to tap into classic, elegant style with versatile staples. If you’re looking for a shoe alternative, try adding in strappy sandals or slingback flats.
Shop the Look:
Simple, elegant and easy to style.
Reformation
Lucy Skirt Es
This skirt is a bestseller for good reason.
Victoria Beckham
Frame Leather Belt
Topshop
Dolly Closed Toe Heels
These look way more expensive than they are.
Mejuri
Big Puffy Heart Studs
2. Trench + Tailored Shorts + Loafers
(Image credit: @cassdimicco)
Style Notes: Stick to a tonal head-to-toe colour palette, for a put-together and sophisticated look. Opt for tailored Bermuda shorts to ensure you keep cool without compromising on looking polished.
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MANGO
Soft Trench Coat With Belt
Mango’s 2025 summer collection has so many expensive-looking items.
COS
Clean Cut Regular T-Shirt
Opt for a soft cream tee for a tonal look.
Reiss
Linen-Blend Bermuda Shorts
Bermuda shorts will always look polished.
Le Monde Béryl
Lo Boy Suede Loafers
ASOS DESIGN
Bevelled Chunky Oval Sunglasses
3. Midi Dress + Mary-Jeans + Suede Tote
Style Notes: These staples are the perfect pieces for any event. Tank dresses have been a favourite of mine for the past few years due to how easy they to just throw on and go. A pair of classic Mary-Jane flats and a chic suede tote will take your dress to the next level.
Shop the Look:
This went straight into my basket.
You’ll reach for these year round.
& Other Stories
Folded Clutch
4. Linen Shirt + Tailored Trousers + Mesh Flats
Style Notes: For the summer, a linen shirt is a great piece to layer over a tank when the temperatures occasionally dip. Pair this with some tailored trousers and mesh flats and you have an outfit that you can wear in or out of the office.
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Polo Ralph Lauren
Oversize Fit Linen Shirt
This is sure to brighten your days.
H&M has some of the best tank tops on the high street.
& Other Stories
Tailored Linen Trousers
I want the entire outfit.
Tony Bianco
Balla Ballerina Shoes
Mesh flats will instantly make any outfit look cooler.
5. Miniskirt + Long-Sleeve Top + Bag + Sunglasses
Style Notes: Balance the proportions of a micro miniskirt with a long-sleeved knit top. Keep tones neutral for a more cohesive look that you can wear from now and well into autumn.
Shop the Look:
SKIMS
Long Sleeve T-Shirt – Onyx
Skims has some great layering pieces.
The Row
Nuance Shoulder Bag in Leather
This is high up on my luxury wishlist.
Celine Eyewear
Square Sunglasses
I love the shape of these.