Want to look modest without overheating? Below, I’m sharing my best lessons on how to dress modestly in summer along with chic yet modest summer outfits.
Find style swaps, tips for staying cool, and outfit inspiration below. Welcome to your summer style guide.
Modest Summer Outfit Ideas
The conservative summer outfits below include lightweight fabrics and flattering silhouettes to keep you cool and confident.
Modest Summer Work Outfits
Casual Modest Summer Outfits
Dressy Modest Summer Outfits
Building a modest wardrobe? These conservative clothing brands will help.
15 Modest Outfits for Hot Weather
| Top | Bottom | Shoes |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton t-shirt | Linen maxi skirt | Ballet flats |
| Flowy blouse | Breezy trousers | Platform sandals |
| Sleeveless blouse | Wide-leg pants | Ballet flats |
| Button-down shirt | Culottes | Low heels |
| Peasant blouse | Cropped pants | Ballet flats |
| Poplin tunic | Maxi skirt | Platform sandals |
| Linen button-up | Palazzo pants | Low heels |
| Wrap blouse | Midi skirt | Ballet flats |
| Flowy tank top | Wide-leg trousers | Platform sandals |
| Off-the-shoulder top | Bermuda shorts | Low heels |
| Lightweight knit sweater | Maxi Dress | Ballet flats |
| Kimono | Jumpsuit | Platform sandals |
| Lightweight Shall | Cotton maxi dress | Low heels |
| Button-down | A-line skirt | Ballet flats |
| Peasant top | Cropped trousers | Platform sandals |
How to Dress Modestly in Summer: 6 Steps
If you read my guide to modest dressing, you know that this lifestyle takes some sartorial strategizing. Here’s how to dress modestly in the heat.
Build a Comfortable Base Layer
Let’s start with the foundation of your modest summer outfits: your base layer. When temperatures rise, opt for undergarments made from breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics like cotton, bamboo, and modal.
These materials allow your skin to breathe and help wick away sweat, keeping you feeling fresh and cool throughout the day.
Choose Cooling Fabric
Now take a look at what’s in your closet. What fabrics are your summer clothes made of? Prioritize cooling fabrics that wick moisture away from the body. Linen shirts, cotton trousers, and jersey dresses are all stellar options. When summer shopping, look for the fabrics below.
Breathable Fabric: Cotton, Linen, Hemp, TENCEL, Jersey
Fabric to Avoid: Polyester, Acrylic, Nylon
Opt for Lighter Colors
In the scorching heat of summer, lighter colors can are your best friends. I recommend sticking to lighter hues to avoid overheating. Why? These hues reflect sunlight instead of absorbing it.
As a bonus, they also give off a refreshing feel in your summer capsule wardrobe. Stay cool and look fresh- the perfect formula for how to dress modestly in summer.
Choose Loose-Fitting Clothing
When building modest summer outfits, consider what you’ll feel comfortable in. Loose garments allow for better air circulation around the body, keeping you cool even on those fiery summer days.
Personally, I ditch tight tank tops and tees in favor of loose button-downs and flowy blouses during the summer months. Try it to feel unrestricted while still looking stylish.
Embrace Dresses and Skirts
We can’t discuss how to dress modestly in summer without talking about dresses and skirts. They are effortlessly chic, promote airflow, and are quick to throw on when you’re in a hurry.
My Tip: Opt for dresses and skirts with full hemlines that can catch breezes and create shade for your legs.
When selecting your dresses, pay attention to the neckline and hemline to ensure they align with your definition of modest.
Wear Lightweight Layers
Listen up my loves- layering doesn’t have to be reserved for colder months. In fact, lightweight layers are ideal for modest summer outfits. By layering with lightweight pieces, you can avoid trapping air and moisture.
To layer
- Start with a lightweight base like a t-shirt.
- Then add a mid-layer like a loose button-down top.
- Finish with a light outer layer like a cardigan, kimono, or sheer jacket.
Layering is especially helpful when going from warm days to breezy nights or hot outdoor areas to heavily air-conditioned ones.
Modest Summer Outfit Swaps
Small changes can make a big difference in your style. Keep these clothing essentials in mind as you learn how to dress modestly in hot weather.
Original Item | Modest Swap |
Tight Tank Top | Loose Tunic |
Denim Shorts | Linen Maxi Skirt |
Crop Top | Peasant Blouse |
Mini Skirt | Midi A-Line Skirt |
Sleeveless Dress | Maxi Dress with Sleeves |
Short Shorts | Bermuda Shorts or Loose Trousers |
Low-Cut Blouse | Mock Neck Blouse |
Spaghetti Strap Dress | Cap-Sleeve Dress |
Modest Summer Outfits FAQs
Adding layers underneath or on top of the dress provides additional coverage. You can wear a lightweight cardigan, shrug, or jacket over the dress.
Want coverage underneath?
Layer a blouse or camisole below your dress to cover the arms or neckline.
Accessories also help. Use belts, scarves, and statement jewelry strategically to draw attention away from areas of the dress that you don’t want to highlight.
- Lightweight cotton or linen tops with higher necklines or sleeves for coverage.
- Maxi skirts or dresses with full hemlines for modesty and airflow.
- Loose-fitting trousers or pants made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Modest swimwear options such as swim leggings or rash guards for sun protection.
- Lightweight cardigans or kimono-style cover-ups for layering.
- Wide-brimmed hats or sun hats for sun protection.
- Sunglasses to protect the eyes from UV rays.
- Ballet flats or platform sandals for comfortable yet stylish footwear.
- Scarves or shawls for added coverage or accessorizing.
- Breathable and moisture-wicking undergarments made from fabrics like cotton or bamboo.
That’s a wrap on our modest summer style guide. For personal style guidance, contact me. Stay cool out there!
