Heatwave? 15 Fashion Staples to Keep Cool Without Sacrificing Style
I was lucky enough to miss the last intense New York City heat wave. However, I know I would've been just fine because I have a summer wardrobe built for high temperatures. The key is wearing natural, breathable fabrics - like cotton and linen - that are moisture-wicking (a serious attribute in scorching-hot weather).
I have a full closet stocked with cotton and linen dresses, blouses and bottoms that keep me cool, calm, and collected this time of year - and I'm sharing some of my favorite pieces below. You'll be able to beat the next heatwave with the following 15 items designed to keep you cool and stylish.
15 Fashion Staples to Keep Cool During a Heatwave - Without Sacrificing Style
Dresses
1. Keep It Cool: This preppy linen button-down dress is the classiest thing you can have in your summer wardrobe, and it looks incredible on every body type.
2. Loose and Breezy: Summer is not the time for skin-tight clothing, and that's where this billowing linen dress comes in. It's roomy without making you look like a shapeless sack.
3. Dress of the Century: Every well-rounded summer closet has a tiered sundress. This one is one of the best because it's stretchy, feminine and even features pockets (score!).
4. So Romantic: The halter neck and straight neckline on this stretchy midi dress make it look elegant and polished. I'm wearing it on my next summer date night.
5. The Casual Pick: If there's any dress you'll find yourself constantly reaching for, it's this relaxed linen mini. The halter neckline helps it look a bit more polished compared to your average T-shirt dress.
Tops and Blouses
6. Super Deal: Bring your beach-inspired summer dreams to life - on a budget! - with a flowy cotton blouse that's on sale for under $10.
7. Go for the Trends: A boxy gingham crop top allows you to get in on summer's hottest trend while still staying cool. Pair it with white denim and sandals for the perfect seasonal look.
8. Professionally Cool: It used to be a struggle to find summer office clothes. . . until I stumbled upon this polished sleeveless cotton button-down, which offers the perfect amount of stretch.
9. Upgraded Tank: The pleats and dainty bow detailing on this linen tank add a pop of personality that makes it feel extra flirty.
10. High-Fashion Vibe: Most linen tops are loose and breezy. This daring design tackles the trends head on with its body-skimming silhouette and asymmetrical neckline.
Bottoms
11. Closet Must-Have: I wear these linen pants from Quince almost every day of summer. They're the only thing I travel in, and I own four colors.
12. Same But Different: Essentially a breezier version of the above pants, this Quince linen maxi skirt feels effortless and breathable, no matter how high the temperatures rise.
13. Boho Forever: When you think of boho styles, skirts probably come to mind, but balloon pants also align with the aesthetic. This pair might become the comfiest item in your closet.
14. Set Sail: Even if you aren't by a body of water, you can pretend you are in some nautical-striped linen shorts.
15. All in the Details: The all-over eyelet design on this full maxi skirt gives it a countryside-chic vibe.
UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping
Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer's chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they're gone.
Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!
Copyright a360media 2026. All rights reserved.
This story was originally published July 13, 2026 at 5:15 AM.