9 Lightweight Pieces for Surviving a Heat Wave

By Caroline Vazzana
Updated Jul 20, 2016 @ 6:45 pm
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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
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matchesfashion.com

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

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2 of 9

Calypso St. Barth Pants

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$159 (originally $195)
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calypsostbarth.com

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

3 of 9

Uniqlo Top

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$30
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uniqlo.com

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

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4 of 9

Topshop Skirt

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$60
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topshop.com

Keep your legs cool in a lightweight breezy skirt. 

5 of 9

 VICTORIA, VICTORIA BECKHAM Dress

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$441 (originally $630)
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net-a-porter.com

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

6 of 9

Thakoon Top

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$371 (originally $529)
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farfetch.com

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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7 of 9

Tibi Top

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$395
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modaoperandi.com

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

8 of 9

Zara Tunic

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$30 (originally $50)
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zara.com

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
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farfetch.com

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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By Caroline Vazzana