We’ve been experiencing some very hot weather in the Northeast. Last weekend was scorching hot with temps up to 100! Not mention just how muggy it has been. Ideal conditions would allow you to stay home on days like this. But let’s get real… we all have lives to live… jobs, kids, errands, events….our plates are full and we need to get on with life, even in the heat. So what do you wear to live your life in this challenging weather trend?

We need to find ways to stay cool, ladies. I’m all for the maxi dresses but let’s be honest, it can get hot under there. If you’re going to go with maxi or midi length dresses or skirts, keep your fabrics light and breathable. This means stick to cotton or linen. Light colors are also preferable. Black tends to absorb heat. Eyelet is a popular summer trend and a great way to keep cool.

These fabric and color tips are applicable across the board. Lightweight fabrics and light colors are preferable in all your hot weather choices. I think this is why white is so popular in the summer. Not to mention how great it looks with your tan. Then again, white doesn’t flatter every skin tone. Light gray, shades of tan or peach and even a pastel pink will go a long way in your summer wardrobe.

Besides those maxi styles, what should you wear? Wide leg linen pants or crops will work if you want to keep it long. If you’re ready to go short, the infamous sundress can be your go to. Rompers are on trend and come in a variety of styles included strapless, halter, and one shoulder. And finally, feel free to pull on those trusty pair of shorts.

I’ve never been a big fan of the way I look in shorts. Last year we took my kids to Disney World for the first time. I quickly realized the only way to get around Disney in the heat and not completely lose my mind was going to be to wear shorts. So I purchase a bunch of different styles and started trying them on. I am happy to say that shorts have come a long way. From your old school chino shorts to cut off jean shorts and even fancy scalloped linen shorts, there are a lot of choices out there. Still not sold? Or maybe unsure what will look good on you? Time to try them on! That’s the best way to figure out what looks good.

So, if you’re staring at your closet in the morning trying to figure out how to keep cool…. Time to take these tips and start shopping!

J. Crew High Rise Triple button stretch linen short

J.Crew 4 in Linen Cotton Scalloped Hem Short

Just when you thought that we were approaching cooler temps (to gently remind us that Fall is around the corner)... Summer hits us with the hottest steamiest temps yet! Ugh. This heat is oppressive. I walked outside this morning and turned right around to head back inside. I was not prepared for the wall of steam I walked into!

So put all those thoughts of Fall and back to school on hold for the next few days. Pull out the lightest outfit you have and drink lots of water. If you’re struggling with what to wear out in this heat, I promise you’re not the only one! Stick to lightweight fabrics. Cotton and linen work great to keep to you cool. Keep in mind that color matters too! Black absorbs the sun so these are the days to pull out your whites! Those little white dresses that sit in your closet because you have nowhere to wear them…. That’s what you pull out on days like today!

A white dress makes a great outfit basic. Keep things casual and easy with flat gladiator sandals. For an evening out, add a heel and a clutch!

When shopping for a white dress if you don’t already have one in your closet, look for one that is fully lined. This will eliminate the need for additional undergarments to hide any ability to see through the dress! White dresses are to be worn in the hot summer heat… find one that stands on its own!

This little white dress was a TJ Maxx find that I purchased last year. It’s a Tahari dress that I scooped up for less than $50. It’s full lined, 100% cotton. The white eyelet detail screams summer and the breathable fabric is perfect for hot temps. The simplicity of this dress allows it to be dressed up or down for brunch with the girls, date night out or family dinner! Even wear it to work paired with a navy blazer or jean jacket for colder office temps. Add the accessories that suit your plans and off you go!

Photography credit for this post: Beth O'Brien Photography

Styles to help keep you cool when temps are on the rise

These Are The Days You Wear White