11 Easy-to-Copy Minimalist Summer Outfits That Will Always Look Chic

MINIMALIST HOLIDAY OUTFITS
(Image credit: Future)

It could just be me, but the older I get, the more I find myself drawn to the minimalistic side of life. Less is more, and all that. When it comes to my wardrobe, rather than experimenting with trends like I used to, these days, I'm investing in those classic pieces that I know I'll want to pull out year after year. Yes, it has a lot to do with wanting my closet to work a lot more sustainably, and buying fewer better items that last is the first step towards that. But a collection full of elevated yet understated capsule pieces is also, in my experience as a stylist, the easiest, low-effort way to always look chic.

This rings especially true in summer when loud prints and bright colours are ubiquitous. There's something particularly sophisticated about a pared-back monochrome look amongst a sea of florals. Not to mention it cuts down on a lot of packing for those summer holidays when everything goes together effortlessly. Of course, it all depends on what makes you feel most comfortable and confident, but if, like me, you've been starting to build a rotation of minimalistic summer outfits you can take from the beach to the park, you've come to the right place today.

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(Image credit: @anoukvye)

Below, you'll find eight of the chicest summer outfits I've seen on Instagram lately that you can bet I'll be copy-and-pasting into my wardrobe for holidays and warm days in the UK alike. And because they're mostly made up of classics, I (and likely you) actually have a lot of the pieces already. The key is in the styling of these simple items, and the women below have seriously delivered on the inspiration front. This article is here for you to bookmark and return to whenever you're having a wobble when getting dressed or packing for your next trip. And I've also added shoppable links, in case you spot anything essential that's missing from your existing collection. Scroll down to see.

1. Shirt + Shorts Co-ord + Bucket Hat

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(Image credit: @aida.bdji)

Style Notes: You can't go wrong with a classic white button-up in summer. Add a matching pair of shorts and a raffia hat and you have yourself a low-effort yet chic outfit to wear all season.

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2. Linen Trousers + Printed Shirt + Sandals

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(Image credit: @chiarasatelier)

Style Notes: Linen trousers are my summer wardrobe staple and when on holiday, I like to elevate them with a playful printed button-up and my favourite fisherman sandals.

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3. Tank Top + Bermuda Shorts + Flip-Flops

Minimalist summer outfits: @annabelrosendahl

(Image credit: @annabelrosendahl)

Style Notes: Long denim shorts are dominating summer 2024. The best way to let this trend shine? Keep the styling simple with a tank top and flip-flops.

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4. White Shirt + Slip Skirt

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(Image credit: @abimarvel)

Style Notes: A satin slip skirt isn't just for your evening looks. Styling it with a casual linen shirt is an elegant way to dress up your daytime outfits as well.

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5. White Mini Dress + Kitten Heels

Minimalist summer outfits: @deborabrosa

(Image credit: @deborabrosa)

Style Notes: Mini dresses are a minimalist's dream because they do all the hard work for you, allowing you to keep the rest of the look pared-back.

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6. Two-Tone Dress + Chunky Flip-Flops

Minimalist summer outfits: @simplytandya

(Image credit: @simplytandya)

Style Notes: A statement maxi dress is the easiest option to look instantly put-together in the heat. No effort required.

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7. Shirt + Bikini + White Denim Shorts

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(Image credit: @emmahoareau)

Style Notes: White denim is a perfect choice if you're looking to freshen up your holiday outfits. Why not try pairing it with a neutral shirt for those more relaxed days on the beach?

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8. Backless Black Dress + Raffia Bag

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(Image credit: @kimturkington_)

Style Notes: If you're looking for an easy evening option, a backless black dress is a great way to look classy without feeling too warm. Just add a simple raffia bag and minimalist sliders.

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9. Asymmetric Tank + Striped Trousers + Strappy Sandals

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(Image credit: @_jessicaskye)

Style Notes: A tank top stays in my outfit rotations all year round but on my holidays, I opt for more elevated styles such as a one-shoulder design. Pairing them with a stripe trouser will make the outfit look elevated without trying too hard.

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10. Knit Dress + Straw Hat + Black Accessories

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

Style Notes: A knit cream dress is a timelessly elegant choice to take on your holidays. This year, I'll be taking inspiration from Sylvie and wearing my knit dress with chic straw hat and slingback flats.

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11. Boatneck Top + White Maxi + Ballet Flats

@nnennaechem

(Image credit: @nnennaechem)

Style Notes: The white maxi skirt is arguably the most popular item amongst fashion people for 2024. Add a simple high neck tank and buckle ballet flats for an outfit that you can wear day or night.

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This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

Emily Dawes
Affiliate Editor

Emily Dawes is the very definition of a fashion multi hyphenate. An editor, stylist and writer with over eleven years’ worth of experience in the industry, Emily is known for her impeccable taste, elegant outfit choices and being able to spot the next big thing in fashion from a mile off. Our readers loyally trust her advice and shopping suggestions; so much so she began her own column documenting the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street, which has become a top-performing piece of content for the Who What Wear brand.

Emily has worked for Who What Wear UK since 2020 in a myriad as roles, spanning from contributing editor and branded content editor. Now, she holds the position of affiliate editor and is responsible for the brand’s overall affiliate strategy, ideation and content execution. Working closely with Who What Wear UK’s affiliate manager, Emily has been instrumental in securing and nourishing brand partnerships, surpassing her goals as standard. Leading the team in tentpole shopping moments including Black Friday and Peak Trading, with Emily’s guidance and leadership, team Who What Wear is in a stronger affiliate position than ever before.

Prior to joining the Who What Wear team, Emily served as YOU Magazine’s acting fashion editor where she managed the fashion team and oversaw all fashion content output for the fast-paced weekly title. Emily is a stylist in her own right, having worked with a slew of VIP clients including writer and television personality, Elizabeth Day, as well as styling and art directing several celebrity cover shoots for glossy print publication, Grazia. Her adept fashion knowledge means brands regularly sought out to work with her as a consultant: previously she has developed marketing and content plans for brands for Cocoon and Edge of Ember. Before entering the industry, Emily obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Studies with International Study from Nottingham University. Fun fact: Emily spent a year studying in America which saw her join a sorority during her time there.

When she’s not working or tracking down the chicest, new-in items to share with our audience, you’ll find Emily bestowing her East London home with her stylish flair, reading everything from the classics to cowboy romance novels and escaping to the country with husband, baby boy and dog, Roo, whenever she can.

Emily is currently on maternity leave.