I Know What You Wore Last Summer: What to Wear for Every Summer Occasions

The Brightest and Sexiest Season of the Year is Here – SUMMER!

It’s time to check your figure and rummage through your closet for elegant, flowing maxi dresses, knit tops, rompers, canvas bags, swimsuits, flip-flops, and aviator shades. Summer is the best time to throw parties and get together with friends for a getaway in the countryside. So, it’s essential to have these summer staples ready.

Prepare yourself for a possible summer romance. Get ready for a road trip with your trusted bandana, slip into your sexiest bikini while the sun is up, and later, don your favorite silk mini dress for the evening. Turn the music up and remember—it’s summer, so make everything hotter.


SUMMER WEDDINGS

Aside from chilly weddings during the months of December to February, summer weddings have also become a favorite for many couples. Destination weddings, such as beach or garden weddings, are perfect during this sun-filled season. A summer garden wedding, especially in the evening, is a lovely sight to behold. With all the flowers in bloom, hanging string lights, and lanterns adorning the garden, you’ll want to be just as stunning without going overboard.

Although there aren’t hard and fast rules for dressing up for a garden wedding, it’s best to avoid casual attire or overly sequined, beaded dresses that might compete with the lights illuminating the plants and trees.

The key is elegance. After all, a wedding is still a wedding. Opt for bright, cheerful colors like sunny yellow, calming green, or flirty pink. Or choose a modern, flirty shade and pair it with the perfect lipstick and bag. If you prefer the classic LBD (Little Black Dress), go ahead—just remember to accessorize and play with colors. Pair it with red pumps or gold stilettos and a chic pashmina or shawl. A shawl is also a wise choice as some summer evenings can get breezy.

For a beach wedding, the dress code is generally more relaxed. Look for a light sundress or maxi dress that feels beachy enough. Though the dress code may be casual, avoid wearing shorts or jeans. Be sure to refer to the invitation for any specific guidelines about formality, as beach weddings can range from casual to black tie. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen and carry a shawl in case it gets windy.


SUMMER GETAWAY

When traveling, it’s essential to pick an ensemble that’s comfortable and practical for the journey, especially in case of unexpected delays. While dressing up for the check-in counter in five-inch heels may look fabulous, can you really handle pulling your suitcases, laptop bag, and passport while wearing them? Choose clothes that are easy to move in—think wrinkle- and spill-proof options like dark colors and knits.

Though comfy clothes are recommended for travel, avoid summer shorts and tank tops unless you’re headed straight to the beach. Jeans or leggings are a safe bet, allowing you to stay comfy while still looking presentable. Skip the flip-flops, and instead, opt for Mary Jane shoes or ballerina flats—perfect for passing through airport security without holding up the line.

For a road trip with family or friends, where the windows are down and the music is playing, anything goes in terms of clothing. But again, prioritize comfort and wrinkle-free outfits. Loose-fitting jeans, chic leggings, summer shorts, or tunic tops work well. A tank or tee under a roomy button-down shirt is also a good option. Comfortable sneakers or flats are ideal, and yes, flip-flops are allowed. Always keep a scarf handy to protect your hair from the wind, or better yet, put it in a ponytail. A floppy sun hat also adds a cute touch.

Heading to the beach? Don’t forget your best bikinis, oversized Jackie O sunglasses, sunblock, cotton tank dresses, glamorous island-night outfits, sundresses, flip-flops, sandals, and a sarong. Beach parties at night are popular, so always be prepared to look your best and glowing, just in case Mr. Surfer Guy strikes up a conversation.


SUNDAY BRUNCH WITH FRIENDS

There’s nothing more heartwarming than early Sunday chit-chats with your closest friends over a sunny morning meal. Freshly brewed coffee, sizzling bacon, French toast, omelets, and freshly squeezed orange juice while catching up is a luxury you can indulge in any day of the week or season.

Summer, however, is the best season for brunch, as food always tastes better when eaten outdoors with a good dose of sunshine. Even if it’s Sunday and you feel like dressing down, it’s still essential to choose an outfit appropriate for the occasion.

A billowy maxi dress in a gorgeous floral print, paired with ballet flats or thong sandals, is a perfect choice. An adorable romper blends the ease of a sundress with the comfort of shorts. For a boyish look, opt for a cotton sleeveless tank top or button-down shirt paired with Bermuda shorts or Capri pants. Even though it’s summer, always bring a cardigan and a scarf for your hair in case it gets a little humid. Complete your look with a big tote bag, perfect for shopping at weekend markets, and don’t forget your shades—the bigger, the better.


HAWAIIAN TROPICAL LUAU PARTY

One of the most popular party themes during summer is the Hawaiian luau. Think grass skirts, leis, tiki torches, palm fronds, and tropical fruits, all while Hawaiian music plays in the background. It’s sure to be one of the most memorable parties you’ll ever have.

Dressing up for a luau is easy, thanks to plenty of shops offering complete ensembles to make you instantly look the part. Go floral—floral print shirts for men and floral dresses for women are ideal. A floral polo can be worn buttoned up or open over a plain tee. Accessorize with leis, seashell jewelry, or colored beads for that festive, beachy vibe. Grass skirts are great for women when paired with bikini tops, and men can also wear them, though typically for performance purposes. For men, the best bottom option is shorts, though board shorts are a fine alternative if you’re not keen on full floral attire.

To complete your luau look, add more flowers—like a hair garland for women or a flower pinned to a man’s shirt collar. Comfortable flip-flops or sandals are a must, as they’re both practical and perfect for a laid-back summer look.