Cotton is an all-star summer fabric. The breathable material keeps you cool and comfortable during the balmiest days of the year, and has the added bonus of being naturally low maintenance. Because cotton holds up well through multiple washes, you can lean on your washer to freshen things up after a sweaty day.
As the hottest days of summer roll in, make a few of these cotton outfits your BFFs. You’ll close out summer in comfort and in style.
5 Cotton Outfits on a Budget
The summer (cotton) dress
Is there anything breezier or more relaxed than a white summer dress? Made with 100% cotton, this piece from H&M is ideal for those steamy August days when you’d much rather go bare-skinned.
Featuring a sleeveless silhouette, this midi-length style has a deep V-neckline and ladylike embroidery. Add a pair of strappy flat sandals and a floppy hat and you’re ready to face the day.
The cotton skirt
A pretty A-line skirt is the perfect addition to any woman’s wardrobe. Modcloth’s Style Study skirt is a sweet and dainty choice for your busy agenda.
Wear this one out to sunny afternoon lunches with girlfriends or evening dates in the city with your special someone. Try it with a simple, colorful tank top or short-sleeve tee along with your favorite pair of wedges.
Utility pants
If you prefer to wear something full length on a slightly cooler summer evening, don’t nix the idea of pants completely.
These Old Navy mid-rise utility pants pull on easily and promise to keep you cool thanks to their airy silhouette and soft ivory shade. The gently tapered silhouette makes them the perfect partner for a light, tucked-in blouse and a pair of heels.
Cotton midi dress
What to wear to work when it’s nearly 100 degrees outside? Try a simple dress that’s designed primarily with comfort in mind, like this one from Ava & Viv™.
Thanks to its sleeveless cut, crisp collar, and midi length, it’s ideal for a day at the office and adds a pop of fun color to your look. This is also a great choice for a laid-back weekend outing with the family.
The summer jumpsuit
Of course we’d include a jumpsuit here, for that undeniable ease and comfort. After all, the all-in-one outfit makes getting ready for the day an absolute breeze.
The beauty of this June & Hudson style is that it ticks all of the wardrobe requirements for a mercury-busting summer day. The light blush/ivory color palette, short sleeves and wide-leg silhouette keep you cool and chic as you stroll the boardwalk with friends.
And of course, shorts
It wouldn’t be summer without a pair of brilliant shorts somewhere in the mix.
You can count on these Zara printed shorts to make a serious splash when you want to dress up in a casual kind of way. The brilliant fuchsia-blossom pattern is irresistible — and all you really need is a white tee and a pair of flats to complete your look.