5 Outfit Formulas to Look Instantly Put-Together This Summer
Photo Credit:@courtblackwell_
Let’s be honest—summer style sounds easy until you’re sweaty, rushed, and staring at your closet like it betrayed you.
You want to look put-together, but not like you spent an hour planning it. And you definitely don’t want to layer up or wear something you’ll regret five minutes after stepping outside.
That’s where outfit formulas come in.
When your brain’s not on, the outfit formula is.
These are the 5 combos I reach for when I want to feel styled, pulled together, and not like I gave up halfway through getting dressed.
Read this next: 20 Summer Dresses That Hide a Muffin Top—Without Looking Like You’re Hiding Anything
Need more outfit formulas that match your mood (not just your calendar)? Grab my free 365 Outfit Ideas—because your style should always meet you where you are.
1. For the Days You Want to Look Effortless But Still Chic
Outfit Formula: Wide-leg linen pants + fitted tank + flat slides + slick bun
It’s giving “she has plans,” even if your only plan is cold brew and silence.
Old Navy
Ribbed Tube Top
$16.99
Old Navy
High-Waisted Linen-Blend Wide-Leg Pants
$39.99
Steve Madden
Hadyn White Leather
$59.95
2. For the Days You’re Tired but Still Want Compliments
Outfit Formula: Midi dress + gold hoops + minimal sandals + tote bag
One piece. Done. And somehow everyone thinks you tried.
Old Navy
Split-Neck Crinkle Gauze Mini Swing Dress
$29.99
Steve Madden
Mayven Orange Leather
$89.95
Steve Madden
Two-tone Hoop Earrings Silver Multi
$25
Lands End
Canvas and Faux Leather Tote Bag
$69.95
3. For the Days You’re Running Around Town
Outfit Formula: Ribbed tee + high-rise denim shorts + mesh flats
You’ll feel like you got dressed on purpose—even if you were out the door in 7 minutes.
Old Navy
Button-Down Ribbed Top
$19.99
Old Navy
High-Waisted OG Jean Cut-Off Shorts -- 3-inch inseam
$39.99
Steve Madden
Mags White
$79.95
4. For the Days When It’s Too Hot to Function
Outfit Formula: Breezy romper + statement sunglasses + sleek bun + slides
No waistband. No layers. No problem.
Old Navy
Waist-Defined Crinkle Gauze Romper
$34.99
Steve Madden
Sunkissed Raffia
$109.95
5. For the Days You Want to Romanticize Your Life
Outfit Formula: Flowy maxi skirt + cropped blouse + basket bag + flat sandals
It’s giving movie scene—even if you’re just walking to the mailbox.
Old Navy
Linen-Blend Button-Down Crop Shirt
$36.99
Old Navy
High-Waisted Rib-Knit Maxi Skirt
$29.99
Steve Madden
Mayven Camel Suede
$89.95
Steve Madden
Daisys Bag Cognac Multi
$78
Need more outfit formulas that match your mood (not just your calendar)? Grab my free 365 Outfit Ideas—because your style should always meet you where you are.
