It's Officially Too Hot to Think—12 Heat Wave–Proof Outfits That Practically Style Themselves
There's summer weather, and then there's the kind of heat that makes you start sweating approximately three minutes after leaving the house. When temperatures creep into the 90s and the humidity inevitably follows, even getting dressed can feel like a chore. The question of what to wear in 90-degree weather becomes less about putting together the perfect outfit and more about figuring out how to wear as little clothing as acceptable without sacrificing your personal style.
As someone who loves summer clothes considerably more than I love actually being hot, I've learned that the best outfits for 90-degree weather tend to have a few things in common: lightweight fabrics, loose silhouettes, and as little unnecessary layering as possible. Luckily, that doesn't mean resigning yourself to a tank top and denim shorts every single day.
For a little inspiration, I looked to my favorite tastemakers for outfits that actually make sense when it's unbearably hot outside. Think breezy sundresses, lightweight linen shorts, and barely-there tank tops that won't immediately cling to your body the second you step outside. If you're wondering what to wear when it's 90°F without completely giving up on looking cute, consider the outfits ahead your summer heat survival guide.
Style notes: caftan + clutch + oversize sunglasses
Style notes: Spaghetti-strap dress + strappy wedges + wayfarer sunglasses
Style notes: satin tank top + statement necklace + printed wrap skirt
Style notes: white tank top + taffeta shorts + flip-flops
Style notes: checkered button-down shirt + denim shorts + heeled thong sandals
Style notes: button-down shirt + bikini top + low-rise skirt + paisley bandana
Style notes: long-sleeve T-shirt + linen Bermuda shorts + color-blocked flip-flops
Style notes: black tank top + boxer shorts + flip-flops + paisley bandana
Style notes: baby-doll dress + shield sunglasses + raffia tote
Style notes: nightgown-style dress + aviator sunglasses + beaded necklace + ballet flats
Style notes: halter top + colorful midi skirt + heeled thong sandals
Style notes: black midi dress + black ballet flats + woven bag
Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.