Cute Summer Outfits

The temperatures rise, the sun beats down and everything suddenly seems a whole lot more fun – yes, it's definitely time to break out those cute summer outfits! There's nothing that says "laid-back" and "casual" quite like lightweight summer garments. Of course, it's as easy to go glamorous as it is to relax in your shorts and tanks!

You can't go wrong with a pretty summer dress!

Chances are your wardrobe is already loaded with those summery essentials. Between t-shirts, tank tops, shorts, bikinis, one-piece swimsuits, sundresses, mini skirts and sandals, you've got your summer clothing agenda covered. The trick to building a functional wardrobe, though, is to collect pieces that work in harmony with one another. Mingling with your trendy pieces should be a few classics that you turn to year after year. Pair them with one another and you're bound to come up with more than a few cute summer outfits to see you through the season.

Since summer presents so many social opportunities, you need a variety of outfits to suit each unique occasion. From a business-casual lunch in an outdoor setting to a low-key poolside barbecue to a stroll about town with the girls, each demands a respective outfit that will keep you looking appropriate and, perhaps even more important, feeling cool and comfortable.

Depending on what you have lined up, you may not always be able to get away with throwing a t-shirt on with a denim mini skirt or pairing a tank top with those ultra-short shorts. Sure, all of these outfits have their time and place, but it's likely you'd rather save the sparkling gladiator sandals for a fun night out than a meeting with your boss. Fret not: With various occasions and events in mind, this list makes it easy to break down your wardrobe into manageable, cute and comfortable outfits!

The office is sweltering, you're ready to faint and the weatherman promises that tomorrow will be even hotter. You won't lose your cool, though. Skip stifling suits if you can and try any of these chic, adorable daytime pieces:

• Pencil skirts are your best friends. Professional and smart, they pair beautifully with light, airy blouses or a camisole and tissue-weight cardigan.
• Camisoles are ideal layering pieces. You'll slip them on beneath your light cardigans during the day, then show them off in the evening. Worn with skirts or pants, they instantly add polish to your look. If your camisole is slightly longer, wear a slim belt around your waist to keep it cinched during the day.
• Shirtdresses and tank dresses are genius nine-to-five options. The former looks smart without any extra details (but feel free to wear a belt if you'd like a bit more shape), while the latter looks sweet with a necklace and a blazer or light cardigan.
• Avoid pantyhose when you're wearing dresses or skirts to the office. Through traditionalists may blanche at the idea of going barelegged, there's nothing wrong with wearing simple pumps or flats without hose during the summer. Just make sure your outfit is corporate-friendly!

Whether you're on a lunch date, walking around the park or doing some shopping in an air-conditioned mall, you'll feel best in something weightless and airy.

• Sundresses are versatile and easy to wear almost anywhere. Floral prints in light colors are charming with a pair of flats in a neutral shade.
• Linen pants are ideal if you prefer to keep your legs covered. They're so insubstantial you may be startled at first, but you'll love walking around in them. Pair with a fitted tank to provide balance; most linen pants have a loose, "floaty" fit. Slip into a pair of light wedges or flip-flops with heels to finish the look.

Dates definitely fall into the "play" category, but they stand alone because they usually demand a slightly more well planned ensemble.

• Nothing says "cute" better than a flirty little summer dress. Try a bold colored halter style with a pair of wedges for an extremely feminine look, or opt for a strapless cotton style and toss a light wrap or cardigan over your shoulders should you need some extra warmth. Add some jewelry for a sparkling finishing touch.
• Wrap dresses are another summer staple that translate well from work to play. They're especially smart to wear on dates, though! They're figure flattering, are available in an array of styles and colors and look wonderful paired with minimal accessories and heels.

Of course, ideas for cute summer outfits are absolutely everywhere. You need only flip through a magazine, watch a television show, browse the Internet or walk through a mall to find inspiration. Be creative. If you like a few of the trendy pieces du jour, purchase them at a store that offers reasonable prices, like Old Navy or Target. That way, you won't feel guilty if you fall out of love by the time next summer rolls around. Build the rest of your wardrobe on smart staples that you'll wear summer after summer. Don't be afraid to spend a bit more on a dress (or anything else) that appears to be a worthwhile investment – if it's well made and makes you look and feel like a million bucks, it's worth it!

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