9 Lightweight Pieces for Surviving a Heat Wave

By Caroline Vazzana
Updated: Jul 21, 2016 @ 11:15 am
Christian Vierig/Getty

No matter how unbearably hot and sticky it gets outside, we are still expected to wear clothes in public (sigh). The next best thing to going au natural? Draping your body in airy silhouettes cut from lightweight natural fabrics like linen, silk, and ultra-thin cotton. Here, 9 foolproof pieces for surviving a heat wave in style. 

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Mara Hoffman Shorts

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$158 Mara Hoffman available at matchesfashion.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

Pair these easy breezy striped cotton shorts with a plain white T-shirt and slides. 

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Calypso St. Barth Pants

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$159 (originally $195) Calypso St. Barth available at calypsostbarth.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

When in doubt, an all white linen pant is a reliable go-to. 

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Uniqlo Top

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$30 Uniqlo available at uniqlo.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

Eyelet lace trim not only gives this cotton top a sweetly feminine spin, but extra ventilation. 

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Topshop Skirt

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$60 Topshop available at topshop.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

Keep your legs cool in a lightweight breezy skirt. 

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 VICTORIA, VICTORIA BECKHAM Dress

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$441 (originally $630) Victoria Beckham available at net-a-porter.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

Between the breathable fabric and open neckline, cotton slip dresses let you dance all night without overheating. 

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Thakoon Top

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$371 (originally $529) Thakoon available at farfetch.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

A relaxed drape of a peplum means the fabric won't stick when your back starts to sweat. (Hey, we've all been there!)

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Tibi Top

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$395 Tibi available at modaoperandi.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

Off-the-shoulder tops with barely-there overlays translate the trend to temperature spikes. 

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Zara Tunic

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$30 (originally $50) Zara available at zara.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

With trousers and heels at the office, at brunch with sneakers and jeans—just a few of the many ways one can wear a light linen tunic.

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LISA MARIE FERNANDEZ Dress

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$593 Lisa Marie Fernandez available at farfetch.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

Fear not the floor length dress! A breathable linen design that skims the body—like this three tier options—lets you go maxi without melting. 

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