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The Ultimate Summer Outfit Formula

Expert Advice

The Ultimate Summer Outfit Formula

Jul 1, 2024

The best part about summer is those spontaneous adventures — whether that’s a quick road trip to snap selfies at the beach or a weeklong cross-country vacay. The season also calls for simple summer outfits that will have you ready to get up and go at any moment. You can use the clothing sandwich method, but here’s an even easier no-fail summer outfit idea that keeps you comfy, cool and ready for adventure — even if that means a last-minute meetup at the gym and drinks after.

The Base: Breezy Summer Tops

The Base: Breezy Summer Tops

Ditch the itchy fabrics and designs that have you sucking in your abs. A graphic tee or a crop top — or keeping both in your closet — are great basics. If you want to elevate them, throw on a denim jacket, lightweight sweater or fleece, or a button-down.


  • Graphic tees are those do-everything shirts that can help you coordinate your outfit colors and inject some personality into even the most basic fits.
  • Crop tops give you that sporty, styled look without even trying. Form-fitting without being tight, you can throw one on with literally anything and look completely pulled together.

The Bottom: Effortlessly Cool Pants & Shorts

The Bottom: Effortlessly Cool Pants & Shorts

It’s already hot and it’s just going to get hotter, so you want to make sure your outfits of summer include a few bottoms that make sense for your lifestyle. If you’re going with a minimalist outfit formula, think comfort and versatility. And once you’ve got all your wardrobe essentials, don’t be afraid to play around with the balance of each fit. For example, if you keep a flowy gauze skirt in your closet, choose a slimmer-cut shirt to pair with it. Tennis skirts work well with both graphic tees, cropped tops and everything in between.

  • Don’t love shorts? Make sure you have some type of denim pants in your closet. A relaxed-fit or wide leg jean works with any top and body type. Plus you can dress them up with a blazer and accessories.
  • Even non-shorts lovers still need a pair or three in their closets — even if you only wear them around the house or at the gym. A moisture-wicking pair of athletic shorts, a pair of cycling shorts to keep the chafing at bay and a pair of white cotton shorts or jean shorts for casual gatherings is all you need for the summer season.

The Finale: Summer Shoes

The Finale: Summer Shoes

If you had to pick two pairs of shoes for your closet — or for your kids’ wardrobes — find your balance of versatility and style, with enough comfort for everyday wear. If you have special occasions lined up for the season, add in platform sandals or boots to your outfits in summer.

  • What makes a sneaker a classic? Something that you love, that coordinates with your other summer clothes — and, if you have kids, something that’ll keep up with growing feet and guard against grass stains and mud. A pair of Reebok Court sneakers gives you that retro tennis vibe that you can wear with everything from denim pants to skirts and dresses. If you need a bit more of a streetwear edge, try a pair of black and white Dunk Lows or Jordan 1s. Kids may need the tough-wearing AF-1s for summer camp — or running shoes like the adidas Ultraboosts for play and practice.
  • Sandals are synonymous with summertime, and the best part is you get to decide which goes best with your favorite fits. Chunky Crocs Mega Crush sandals give your kids that super trendy platform Crocs vibe, and lots of personality when they add Jibbitz to the mix. A pair of Nike Calm slides are so insanely comfortable and easy to slip on that anyone can wear them.

The Extras: Accessories FTW

The Extras: Accessories FTW

You don’t need anything else for your summer outfits, but if you want to add some finishing touches, here are a few:


  • A bag to stash your stuff. If you only need something for the gym, grab a duffel or backpack. Need something to replace your designer bag when you go on vacation? A crossbody can hold all your essentials without the bulkiness.
  • A hat, whether a bucket hat for a throwback look or a snapback that adds streetwear edge to your outfit, is always a good idea.

Outfits in summer should come without all the fussiness. By swapping out pieces, playing with colors, patterns and brands, you can create a summer outfit formula that works for your needs. The most important thing is to wear what makes you feel comfortable. Whether you browse our online apparel or shop in store, Hibbett can help you find athleisure and casual wear that gives you the confidence to slay all your summer fits.

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