Images: Imaxtree
We used to only wear suits when we had to. But things have changed. Thanks to the linen trend and our love of slouchy coordinates, suits are staples in our wardrobes, just like statement sneakers and barrettes. The style set’s love of menswear-inspired suiting is so strong that its members are passing on the ubiquitous T-shirt and denim shorts combo in favor of warm-weather suits. We encourage you to follow suit and work an all-business look into your summer rotation along with your breezy dresses and trendy almost-maxi skirts.
And suits can work for almost any occasion in almost any kind of weather. So yes, you can wear suits in summer without sweating through your blazer. These made-for-summer silhouettes come in many forms, from skirt suits to baggy sets.
Looking for some inspo? Here are some street style-approved ways to wear summer suits.
All the Summer Suit Style Inspiration You Need
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Creamsicle Co-Ords
What could be more perfect for summer than an orange suit? It can be worn to the office when styled with a black blouse and pointed-toe boots. The sunny oversized headband is trendy and works on and off the clock — provided HR doesn't have an issue with the accent.
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Out of the Office
Top off a shorts suit with a bucket hat, preferably Chanel, and work in white sneakers. Wear the suit sans shirt to help it shed its corporate vibe.
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Living in Lavender
A casual pastel suit is a great way to showcase a golden tan and seashell jewelry. Try a monochromatic color palette, but experiment with different intensities to keep things interesting.
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Summer Whites
Remember that white is a lot cooler to wear than black when the heat is on. So swap that black pantsuit for a white version. If you still need a pop of your favorite inky shade, layer a black T-shirt underneath and wear coordinating sandals. Don't forget the dark sunglasses.
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Ombre Days
Forget ombre hair. How about an ombre suit? A gradient satin suit can easily transition from day to night, especially with heeled boots and statement jewelry.
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Red Hot
Don't sweat wearing long sleeves in summer. Just choose a suit in a light fabric. A set in a vivid shade styled with sunglasses, a white T-shirt, sandals and a cheery bucket bag really pops.
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Like a Boss
Bring a bit of the 80s into summer with a strong-shouldered skirt suit. Keep things playful with casual accessories, like white ankle boots and a millennial pink bag. Statement earrings and a power hairstyle only increase the I'm-in-charge vibe.
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Cropped Spots
A striking animal print suit does the majority of the sartorial work for you. Wear without a top for maximum coolness or with a bandeau or bra underneath for some coverage. Cool sneakers and a neon crossbody bag are the perfect finishing touches.
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Pretty Plaid Pieces
A bit of skin, white sunglasses and a boldly patterned pantsuit. Congratulations, you have all the makings of a stylish summer look.
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Suit Up
Shorts suits are pantsuits' playful cousins and perfect for off-duty summer days. Finished with gold jewelry and sturdy heels, the shorter silhouette can work for almost any occasion.
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Not-So-Gray Days
Make a gray suit work in summer by pairing a plaid blazer with a matching dress. Colorful grandpa sneakers, a saddle bag and a clear belt also make it season-appropriate.
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Surprising Separates
These dreamy patterned separates aren't conventional, but totally in line with summer. The T-shirt and white sneakers increase the effortlessness. Go the extra mile by adding coordinating tinted sunglasses.
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Winter Redux
Got a plaid suit you don't want to pack away? Give it a warm-weather makeover with a white T-shirt and summery accessories. And sunglasses. Always remember sunglasses.
