If your campus is anything like mine, then it is pushing 95, almost 100 degrees every day, and you must walk to class in the sweltering heat. However, if you’re also like me, you want to hopefully NOT look like a hot, sweaty mess when you’re in public, just in case you run into your campus crush or that professor you want to build a connection with. So, what can you wear and style in such a conundrum?
My first, and almost everyone’s go-to, for outfit recommendations in this crazy heat is athleisure. The rise of matching athletic sets has been amazing for those of us who like to be comfy yet put together. I have a few matching workout sets from Fabletics that I wear every week, they’re great for running to class and you can wear them straight to the gym after! You can also wear athletic dresses, which can make you look even more elevated! I like to style my athleisure with lots of fun bracelets, chunky earrings, and a braid or ponytail!
Let’s start with bottoms. If you’re not feeling the workout clothes, I suggest the tried and true pair of linen pants or shorts. Linen and cotton are my favorite fabrics in this heat; they are super lightweight and breathable. Pair some white linen shorts or pants with a patterned tee or tank, add some fun jewelry or a bright sneaker, and you have a super easy outfit! You can also pair an oversized graphic tee with patterned shorts for a fun contrast look; I love the cotton tees and tanks from Hollister. Jean shorts are also a staple for me in this heat. Try getting ones in different shades and washes for contrast in your outfits!
Next up is my favorite section in my closet: tops! I have ideas to elevate your basics for more unique outfits, instead of just wearing jean shorts with a tank top, try to add something special! I have embroidered simple tank tops with my sorority’s letters; it’s a super easy craft and adds character to an otherwise basic top! You can find lots of embroidery inspo on Pinterest, things like stars, flowers, letters, and much more! I would also recommend buying sleeveless tops that are slightly different from the basics in your closet. If you like to wear tank tops, try buying ones with a lace trim to add some detail. I also love babydoll style tops, they are super flattering and pair great with either jean bottoms or other fabrics. Tube tops and halters are also great in hot weather but can sometimes feel constricting or hurt your neck. I also love a great oversized tee in this weather. Try cutting off the neck or cropping your tees that you don’t wear often to add some spice! I do this a lot with graphic tees with my university’s logo or from places I’ve visited.
Lastly, let’s talk shoes and accessories! I know it’s super tempting to just walk out of the house in flip flops in this weather, but there are other options too! A great white sneaker is a classic and can match almost every outfit ever! I am also super into flats at the moment. My Puma Speedcat Ballet sneakers are my current favorite, I love their versatility. As for days when I want something more elevated, I choose the Dolce Vita Reyes ballet flat! Both of these flats feel great on my feet after thousands of steps around campus, I highly recommend! As for accessories, I love lots of jewelry with my outfits. Bracelets, rings, and earrings, give me it all! You can also spice up your outfits with a fun scarf or barrette in your hair, or a fun belt!
I hope you’ve gotten some ideas for your outfits for this absurdly long summer we’ve been experiencing! Before you start running to the mall for new clothes, make sure to check your local thrift stores first, a lot of my favorite clothes are secondhand! Strut your stuff and make that campus your runway!