11 Celeb-Inspired Summer Outfits Ideas to Beat the Heat in Style

As the lazy, hazy days of summer roll out, those facing scorching temperatures may also be fronting the never-ending question of how to look chic in the heat. This dilemma can be even more puzzling for those sweating it out in the city, whether that be abroad on a near future vacation or at home on the daily commute, where air conditioning is not always available and the steamy pavement makes everything ten times hotter. Luckily, a few of our favorite A-listers have been stepping out in style during the most recent heat waves, giving us plenty of summer-in-the city outfit inspiration to replicate in full force—no thought required.

These easy, summer outfit formulas are guaranteed to keep you cool—in more ways than one. Not only are they effortlessly stylish, they also are chock full of fundamental silhouettes that you will want to wear over and over, in lightweight fabrics, such as cotton poplin and linen, to conquer the rising temps. Take for instance, Sienna Miller’s polished spin on white denim, layered with a knitted top and straw basket bag, or Dua Lipa’s all-white ensemble, consisting of a breezy midi skirt, slinky tank, and Pumas. Both are a minimalist’s dream and built using the best basics in fresh, summer whites—a palette that Jennifer Lawrence has been leaning into as well, topped with her favorite statement accessories (ahem—The Row’s sold out Mara jelly flats and a Ralph Lauren ball cap).

For those craving a little something spicier, there are maximalist takes in the mix, too. From one oh-so-special, crochet minidress, inspired by Taylor Swift’s recent, London date night ’fit (that can also double as a beach cover-up!), to Emily Ratajkowski’s tomato-print slip (paired with her signature, walking-friendly sneakers and bold sunnies), and Rihanna’s playful take on the denim maxiskirt trend, finding your summer look is no longer painstakingly problematic.

Below, we’ve got you covered with the 11 best celeb-inspired, summer outfits to beat the city heat.

Tomato Girl Summer, Continued

Emily Ratajkowski proves that tomato girl summer is not just a passing trend, it’s a forever lifestyle. Slip into a slinky, printed minidress (from downtown-approved Miaou) and pair with bold, retro kicks and bright sunnies for a refreshingly cool take on mix and match pairings. Beach-friendly, shell jewelry adds even more depth.

Crisp and Cool

We are crushing hardcore on Jennifer Lawrence’s street style looks as of late, and this crisp, poplin pajama pant set is perfect for a hot day, hitting the pavement. Unbutton, roll up the sleeves, then add a classic, Ralph Lauren ball cap (for extra shade) and fashion-forward, jelly flats in tonal brights to really give your look that extra oomph.

Set ‘Em Up

Nothing is more foolproof than a matching set, especially on those high-temp days when you can’t think straight. Reach for this off-shoulder jersey set, just like Hailey Bieber, for a day-to-night look that works just as great on expectant mothers, as it does everyone else. A simple, Mary Jane flat and bold, woven bag completes this ’fit to a tee.

Crochet All Day

The crochet dress is a summer standby no closet should be without. This season, make it a mini, with a little bit of retro flair à la Taylor Swift. We love how effortless the knitted piece looks with an open-toed shoe in butter yellow (don’t forget a good pedi!) and a no-frills bucket bag, like this vegan option from Stella McCartney. It’s the perfect date night look.

Minimalist Maven

Sienna Miller knows how to work a good street style ensemble, and this one is as easy as one, two, three to pull off. Start with a white, pleated trouser jean, add a knitted tank and in tonal hues, and finish with an oversized, straw basket bag and white retro sneakers you probably already own. Top off with violet lenses for a fun accessory moment.

Weekend Warrior

Dua Lipa makes dressing for the heat look like a walk in the park. Follow her lead and layer a ‘90s style, minimalist tank top with a breezy, linen skirt, that is TikTok-approved, to repel those harsh rays. Alaïa’s mesh shoulder bag kicks things up a notch in the fashion department, while Puma sneakers will keep your feet comfortable for miles on end. This one is a no-brainer.

Vested Interest

If you’re gearing up for a sweaty commute, take style notes from Ayo Edebiri. A tailored vest is sweat-proof (hello, sleeveless!) while still feeling professional. Olive green cargo pants in wide-leg (these are 100% cotton) won’t stick to the body either, but still make sense for an office environment. Add pearl drop earrings and a designer bag, like Loewe’s small, top-handle Puzzle shape, and you are good to go.

Make it Pop

Rihanna always knows how to master a mix of vintage, modern, and futuristic in one look—a feat that requires major skill. This graphic T-shirt and Y2K-inspired, denim maxiskirt combo is comfortable enough for a day of errands, while equally appropriate for a weekend brunch or drinks date. The whole look is tied together with accessories in the primary color family, to really keep things popping.

Uptown Funk

A one-and-done dress is a wardrobe godsend when facing a steamy summer in the city. Go for something that is both breezy and uptown-approved, like Katie Holmes’s bouclè maxidress, mixing sexier cutouts with a full skirt to retain a bit of polish. An optic white, flat shoe feels extremely modern—and these happen to be a collaboration between A.P.C. and the Holmes herself.

Prep School Cool

Leave it to Dakota Johnson to take something as classic as a cardigan and somehow… make it sexy? When layered with a crisp, crew neck T-shirt and soft, low-slung jeans (that show off the tiniest bit of midriff), the look is positively geek-chic. Simply wrap the cardigan around your shoulders midday when the sun is blazing and there is no air conditioning in sight, and finish with modern accessories such as a leather belt, pointy pump, and hoop earrings.

Monochrome Moment

When all else fails, a black summer dress is the answer. Make yours a breathable maxi, like Dakota Fanning, with a one-shouldered neckline to keep things from feeling too basic. Pro tip: a linen or cotton fabrication is a must. Your favorite Mary Jane flats (we love The Row’s version) and playful shades are all you need to finish things off. There is truly nothing easier than this.