I'm a Modest Dresser, and These Are the Anti-Trend Pieces I Rely On Every Summer

To many, modest dressing in the summer may seem like an oxymoron. I get it. When the temperatures have surpassed 90°F, and the humidity is high, no amount of clothing feels right. But those of us who adhere to a modest lifestyle have adapted and learned how to feel cool and look chic, even in the middle of the summer. It's not a linear journey, though. Style preferences aside, we're constantly learning what works best in our wardrobes. Curating a well-rounded wardrobe can take years, but to make my life (and yours) easier, I've created a little checklist of more basic-leaning items that I tend to rely on and should prioritize in shopping for the summer. I took note of fabrics I relied on, pieces that usually involve minimal layering, and things that felt flattering enough to make me want to wear them every day.

Since my days largely revolve around fashion, I understand these things may not be on everyone's train of thought, so I felt compelled to share. My summer outfit formulas usually involve the pieces below, and even if I'm wearing a statement piece, they're usually paired with one of the basics below. Trust me, once you have those core pieces, you won't always feel like you're scrambling for something to wear in this weather.

Summer dressing is difficult for many, so I've shared my go-to pieces you can count on year after year. Even if you aren't a modest dresser, the items below are worth considering. 

Linen Pants

Linen pants are a must-have for hot weather since their breezy and lightweight feel keeps things comfortable. Practicality aside, nothing embodies the laid-back feel of summer quite like linen does. 

Oversize Button-Downs

The outfit ideas that surround an oversize button-down are almost limitless. You can wear it as is with relaxed jeans, tie it over a slip dress, tuck it into a voluminous skirt, and more. Similar to a perfect pair of jeans or a white tee, a comfortable button-down should be in every one's wardrobe.

Co-ords

Co-ords are the solution to those mornings when it seems as if your brain can't come up with a single thought. (We all have those days.) The outfit is practically made for you. All it needs are shoes and accessories. Plus, for the days when you can think clearly, you can get maximum wear out of the set by mixing and matching. 

Simple Maxi Skirts 

The modest fashion market has been filled with mostly midi hemlines these past few years, but after maxi hemlines were heavily re-introduced on the runways, the trend is now a core part of today's style. 

Pretty White Tops

Remember when we'd always wear jeans and a cute top out? I'm trying to bring that level of easiness back into my life again. An outfit featuring a white top with pretty or elevated details doesn't require much effort to look good. I've worn mine with jeans, linen pants, maxi skirts, etc.

Opaque T-Shirts

I'm not entirely against layering in the summer, but I opt for lightweight and opaque shirts when I need to layer. These would work well underneath any piece where you might want to show a little less skin. My favorite wear of wearing them right now is underneath a loose button-down and tucked into jeans or linen pants.

Relaxed Trousers

Not sure how to adjust your workwear for summer? Opt for a pair of relaxed-fit trousers over tapered ones. They work with elevated pieces like a button-down and more casual items like a T-shirt.

Shirtdresses

Shirtdresses are a throw-on-and-go item that works no matter the day. I also love that they open and can act as lightweight layer. 

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