How to Dress for Summer If You Have Classic Style

As over the moon as I am about all the fun summer style inspiration I'm seeing now that the sun is out in full force, there's a bit of a storm cloud that inevitably rustles its way to the fore this time of year. It's not always easy for me to dress for warm months without sacrificing my classic style. I like clean, structured pieces and timeless silhouettes, such as pieces that could take me from the beach to brunch. This time of year, however, a lot of the tank tops, lightweight dresses and skirts on offer tend to be designed with different trends in mind, a more free-flowing, beachy vibe. While many vacationers may be in heaven with all these options, I struggle to find breezy, summer-friendly clothes that still fit my classic aesthetic.

I'm not alone. One of Who What Wear's readers recently shared this same style struggle in our Facebook group (if you haven't joined already, what are you waiting for?). "Over the past year I've really developed my personal style," Claudia Anne posted. "I love classic looks like skinny jeans, loafers and a turtleneck. As spring rolls around, I am at a loss for what to wear. When I search 'classic spring style' on Pinterest, I find the photos to be outdated styles or just not my taste."

We hear you, Claudia, which is why we set out to bring anyone who shares this struggle our guide to classic, summer-friendly staples. Armed with the following eight items, you'll keep cool all summer while staying true to your style.

Relaxed Button-Down Shirt
classic summer style

Photo:

@thefashionmedley

White Trousers
Classic white outfits

Photo:

@shelleymokoena

Breezy Midi Dress
classic summer style

Photo:

@minamigessel

Simple Bodysuit

Photo:

@sabinasocol

Paperbag Pants
summer outfits classic style

Photo:

@mcristinastyling

Denim Skirt

Photo:

@claire_most

Woven Shoes

Photo:

@jeannedamas

Cropped Cardigan

Photo:

@emmaleger

Next up, all the spring/summer 2019 fashion trends you need to know. 

This was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.