As a fashion editor, I find late summer to be one of the most exciting times for getting dressed. While some see it as an awkward in-between stage, I see it as the best of both worlds. Granted, I'm more of an autumn girl at heart, but my favourite part of summer dressing is being free from the restraints of practicality. To me, late summer feels like being able to take full advantage of that freedom, but with a broader selection of pieces to play with.
The cooler temperatures allow you to bring the lighter elements of your autumn wardrobe back into play, like long sleeve t-shirts, trench coats and denim. By pairing them with summer fabrics and accessories you can create looks unique to this time of year, then build on them for next season.
It's also a great opportunity to rediscover the potential of your own wardrobe. If you're planning a wardrobe sort-out any time soon I highly recommend experimenting with new outfit combinations before you pack any summer pieces away. Try a dress or skirt over jeans and linen with tailoring to give those summer favourites longevity.
So whether you're like me and are excited to find new ways to experiment with your summer staples, or you're simply looking for ideas that make transitional dressing easier, I've found five outfit formulas that will tick every box. Read on to find out more.
5 Late-Summer 2026 Outfit Ideas
1. Trench Coat + Capri Pants + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Capri pants are already a great transitional piece of kit. Longer than shorts with a slimmer fit, they are the stylish answer to fluctuating temperatures. The proportion play of adding a trench coat elongates the overall look, while the cropped-hem keeps the outfit from feeling to heavy.
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A softer alternative to white.
Striking the perfect balance between sport and fashion.
Toteme says butter yellow is here to stay.
Shawl collars will trump funnel-necks for autumn.
Iconic.
2. Linen Shirt + Column Skirt + Oversized Sunglasses
Style Notes: Don't put all your linen away just yet. Hold on to pieces in darker neutrals such as black, brown, khaki and navy as these pair effortlessly with tailored items like blazers, trousers and skirts. Keep the look tonal or monochromatic and you'll have an outfit that's timeless and adaptable to the fickle changing of temperatures.
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An essential for any summer wardrobe.
Work-hard workwear.
A classic with a masculine twist.
A softer take on the traditional clutch.
The eyewear brand loved by Bella Hadid and Charli XCX.
3. Denim Shirt + Straight Leg Jeans + Thong Sandals
Style Notes: Start bringing denim back into your outfit rotation with lighter pieces such as loose denim shirts and straight-leg jeans. Together they make for a statement combo that requires little else to feel stylish, while the shirt alone can add depth to lace maxi skirts and basics like white t-shirts and tank tops.
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Comes with the option to add monogram details.
The perfect slouch.
100% leather.
Woven bags in rich dark hues will take you into next season.
4. Cardigan + Overlay Trousers + Top-Handle Bag
Style Notes: The cardigan is perhaps the perfect late-summer piece, which can be worn on its own now and layered later or on cooler evenings. Use it to create a textural contrast with more fluid items like satin or linen trousers, and in a bold shade like red or cobalt blue will make an impact with minimal effort.
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Knitted from 100% A-grade Mongolian cashmere.
A Y2K revival.
A fashion editor favourite.
The accessory of 2026.
5. Midi Dress + Cardigan + Loafers
Style Notes: Give your dresses an end of season upgrade by simply adding loafers, socks and a cardigan. This is a great time to explore how cardigans can be used as an accessory, following on from the scarf belt trend. Simply tie around your waist or throw over your shoulders to give the illusion of layering without the added bulk.
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High-end quality. High street price.
Half loafer, half moccasin. Totally obsessed.
A timeless investment.