I’m a Modest Dresser, and These Are the Anti-Trend Pieces I Rely On Every Summer

To many, modest dressing in the summer may seem like an oxymoron. I get it—when the temperatures have surpassed 90° and the humidity is high, no amount of clothing feels right. But those of us who adhere to a modest lifestyle have adapted and learned how to feel cool and simultaneously look chic, even in the middle of the summer. It’s not a linear journey, though. Style preferences aside, we’re all constantly learning what works best in our personal wardrobes. Curating a well-rounded wardrobe can take years, but to make my life (and yours) easier, I’ve created a little checklist of more basic-leaning items that I tend to rely on and should prioritize in shopping for the summer. I took note of fabrics I relied on, pieces that usually involve minimal layering, and things that simply just felt flattering enough to make me want to wear them every day.

Since my days revolve largely around fashion, I understand these things may not be on everyone’s train of thought, so I felt compelled to share. My summer outfit formulas usually involve the pieces below, and even if I’m wearing a statement piece, they’re usually paired with one of the basics below. Trust me, once you have those core pieces set, you won’t always feel like you’re scrambling for something to wear in this weather.

Summer dressing is hard for many, so I’ve shared my go-to pieces you can count on year after year. Even if you aren’t a modest dresser, the items below are worth considering.

Linen pants are a must-have for the hot weather since the breezy and lightweight feel keeps things comfortable. Practicality aside, nothing embodies the laid-back feel of summer quite as linen does.

The outfit ideas that surround an oversize button-down are almost limitless. You can wear it as is with relaxed jeans, tied over a slip dress, tucked into a voluminous skirt, and more. Similar to a perfect pair of jeans or a white tee, a comfortable button-down should be in every wardrobe.

Co-ords are the solution to those mornings when it seems like your brain just can’t come up with a singular thought. (We all have those days.) The outfit is practically made for you, and all it needs is shoes and some accessories. Plus, for the days when you are able to think clearly, you can get maximum wear out of the set by mixing and matching.

The modest fashion market has been filled with mostly midi these past few years, but after maxi hemlines were heavily re-introduced on the runways, the trend is now a core part of today’s style.

Remember those days when someone asked what we were wearing, we’d respond with “jeans and a cute top”? I’m trying to bring back that level of easiness in my life again. An outfit featuring a white top that has pretty or elevated details doesn’t requite much effort to look good. I’ve worn mine with jeans, linen pants, maxi skirts, etc.

I’m not entirely against layering in the summer, but when I need to layer, I make sure I opt for lightweight and opaque shirts. These would work well underneath any piece where you might want to show a little less skin. My favorite wear of wearing them right now is underneath a loose button-down and tucked into

For figuring out workwear in the summer, opt for a pair of relaxed-fit trousers over a tapered pair. They work with elevated pieces like a button-down or more casual items like a t-shirt.