12 Ways to Create an Effortlessly Layered Look This Summer

When you think of summer, "layering" probably isn't the first word to come to mind. As someone who feels bare without layers on an outfit, I've become a self-proclaimed pro at mixing and matching pieces over another. I love a good basic 'fit every now and then, but you can't deny the structure a jacket or overshirt adds to an ensemble. Whether it's for modest dressing purposes, sun protection, or simply to prepare for the chillier nights, I've gathered outfits below that will inspire some layered looks this summer.

When it comes to layering in the warmer weather, it's all about minimal fabrics, playing around with colors, and doing what makes you feel most comfortable. Keep scrolling to view 13 ways our favorite fashion girls are adding layers to their summer vibe. 

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(Image credit: @mfass)

In the summertime, fashion girls are always sporting their swimsuits as tops. To make it look more put-together, a breezy button-up pairs well.

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(Image credit: @noore)

For modest dressers, pairing a long-sleeved top under a sleeveless dress can add dimension to your ensemble. Keep the materials light to keep the look more comfortable for the heat.

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(Image credit: @amaka.hamelijnck)

You may not be able to wear this outfit on the hottest of days, but it can still work for the summertime. Since the button-up seems lightweight and the pants are linen, this is the way to do a "suited" look this season.

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(Image credit: @mariaalia)

Patterned silk button-ups are giving all the retro vibes you want this summer. Pair over a long-sleeve tee, tank, or even a basic swimsuit. 

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(Image credit: @alyssainthecity)

I know a sweater over a swimsuit sounds contradicting, but sometimes all you need to keep warm is your arms. 

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(Image credit: @aniyahmorinia)

A button-up over a skirt is my favorite summer outfit combo, and it always looks better layered with a top underneath. 

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(Image credit: @champagnemani)

Cardigans are here to stay, so I apologize if you're trying to leave the preppy years behind. A cropped one looks great over a t-shirt.

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(Image credit: @himichelleli)

A tank dress and sneakers make the ultimate sporty but fashion" ensemble. You can tie a sweatshirt around your waist or don a light coat, or be like Michelle and do both.

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(Image credit: @emmaleger)

I told you, cardigans aren't going anywhere. I love how it just adds the perfect touch to what would've been a simple dress.

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(Image credit: @annabelrosendahl)

I'm that girl who wears blazers in the summer, sorry not sorry. I opt for ones that are either light in color or bright, so I stay away from my black blazer since it attracts heat. Since a blazer is a heavier layer, keep it simple as this t-shirt and jeans look.

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(Image credit: @thatgirlyusra)

As someone who loves outerwear, I save my collection of cropped jackets for those slightly colder days of the summer. They keep your outfit proportionate, especially with dresses or skirts. 

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(Image credit: @HARRIETSTEWART)

Sorry for the over mentioning of button-ups, but they really are your layering best friend in the warm weather. Thi tank and Bermuda shorts look is simple and easy, and the tied top completes it. 

Next, 6 Outfits That Will Make You Feel Like You're on Holiday Even If You're Not

Assistant Market Editor
Yusra Siddiqui is an editor who resides in New Jersey but bounces between the suburbs and NYC. (She's a Jersey girl at heart.) After interning at Who What Wear in 2019, she found her way to the team after graduating from LIM College in 2022 with a fashion media degree. She's also spent time writing and working for publications such as Fashionista, Coveteur, and Nylon, but she always knew that Who What Wear was where she was meant to be. When she's on the job, she's perusing runway shows, analyzing the latest thing fellow Gen Zers are up to on the internet, and sharing what she can about the modest-fashion market. You can also catch her dabbling in entertainment, talking about the costume choices of the latest Netflix series or diving deeper into how the plotline affects the viewers in a myriad of ways. Lastly, she likes to create content for Who What Wear's TikTok. Her personal time is spent doing similar but also different things—deep diving into almost every new TV show (Bridgerton, Gilmore Girls, and Stranger Things are favorites), planning her next local getaway (whenever that may be), and reading the latest Emily Henry or Sally Rooney novel in one sitting.