Beat the Heat With 21 Cool-Girl Fashion Finds

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When we watch the temperature climb above 80°F, the thought of a simple task like getting dressed can seem nearly impossible — especially when you factor in the desire to actually appear pulled together in the sweltering heat. Fortunately, we've got a few tricks up our sleeve to put our most stylish foot forward, even in the midst of a summer heatwave. The trick to pulling it off is all in the power of a few statement pieces — we're talking vibrant hues, asymmetrical hemlines, and attention-grabbing cutouts for a high-impact look that's also low effort.

Whether you're going to the beach, grabbing brunch with the crew, running errands, or heading out to dinner, there's a fashionable item in here that won't raise your body temperature to an unbearable level. We've included sandals that give your feet room to breathe, hats that protect you from the sun, shorts that are loose and comfortable, tops that are stylish and airy, and, of course, lots of summer dresses. You could say we've uncovered the crème de la crème of warm-weather wear. The best part? All of these fashionable, easy-to-slip-on pieces are flattering and versatile. See them for yourself ahead.

— Additional reporting by Macy Cate Williams

A Backless Sundress: For Love & Lemons
forloveandlemons.com

A Backless Sundress: For Love & Lemons

Finding a whimsical, sexy dress that's comfortable and high quality isn't always easy, but it is easy to shop at the brand For Love & Lemons. This backless For Love & Lemons Raleigh Midi Dress ($288) is adorable. We're obsessed with the vibrant floral print, and the breezy style is perfect for hot summer days.

For Elevated Beachwear: Show Me Your Mumu
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For Elevated Beachwear: Show Me Your Mumu

Show Me Your Mumu makes everything from swimsuits to cute jeans, but the dresses are our favorites. Pick this long, lightweight Show Me Your Mumu Caroline Maxi Dress ($168) as the ultimate summer dress. It comes in a couple of different styles, but you can't go wrong with black.

A Bohemian Dress: Dôen
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A Bohemian Dress: Dôen

Romantic silhouettes, breezy and lightweight fabrics, and adorable prints are never too much for summer. We plan to wear this gorgeous Dôen Trail Dress ($228) all summer long. Its short puff sleeves make a statement while its floral pattern adds a whimsical touch that we adore.

A Strapless Dress: Caroline Constas Marnie Dress
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A Strapless Dress: Caroline Constas Marnie Dress

Doesn't this Caroline Constas Marnie Dress ($480) just scream summer? It's the perfect brunch-to-beach dress, and you can even wear it out at night. Plus, it can be dressed up if you find yourself at a nice dinner.

A Lightweight Dress: Endless Summer Cross Of Sunlight Mini
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A Lightweight Dress: Endless Summer Cross Of Sunlight Mini

This Endless Summer Cross Of Sunlight Mini ($78) is an ideal summer dress. It's lightweight, on trend, and affordable. We love the side cutouts and the yellow hue, though it comes in lots of different colors.

Rubber Slides: Birkenstock Eva Arizona Sandals
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Rubber Slides: Birkenstock Eva Arizona Sandals

Since you're going to be by the water, having a great pair of rubber sandals is essential. You can spend the whole day in these Birkenstock Eva Arizona Sandals ($50). They're durable, comfortable, and cute. As an editor favorite, they've got our stamp of approval and come in lots of colors, though we're partial to the white.

An Oversize Bucket Hat: Piper Printed Wide Brim Bucket Hat
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An Oversize Bucket Hat: Piper Printed Wide Brim Bucket Hat

The Piper Printed Wide Brim Bucket Hat ($15, originally $27) features a cotton construction and trippy design that will capture everyone's attention. Wear it to the beach, to a picnic, or on a boat. Its handy ties will ensure it stays on in windy conditions.

Bestselling Flip-Flops: Old Navy Sugarcane-Blend Flip-Flop Sandals 3-Pack
oldnavy.gap.com

Bestselling Flip-Flops: Old Navy Sugarcane-Blend Flip-Flop Sandals 3-Pack

If you're obsessed with Old Navy's staple flip-flops like we are, stock up on them with this Sugarcane-Blend Flip-Flop Sandals 3-Pack ($10, originally $13). Made partially from renewable sugarcane, these flip-flops are stylish, dependable, and durable. The three packs come in a variety of prints and patterns.

A Soft-Girl-Aesthetic: LoveShack Fancy Leslie Mini Dress
loveshackfancy.com

A Soft-Girl-Aesthetic: LoveShack Fancy Leslie Mini Dress

This LoveShack Fancy Leslie Mini Dress ($295) exudes a carefree femininity characteristic of the soft-girl vibe. Style the rainbow mini with strappy heels for date night or wear it over your bathing suit for an elevated beach day. On days it cools down, go ahead and pair it with a jean jacket or cardigan — it's a great dress for layering.

A Cutout Summer Dress: Target Sleeveless Open Back Knit Dress
target.com

A Cutout Summer Dress: Target Sleeveless Open Back Knit Dress

Great for an everyday look, the Sleeveless Open Back Knit Dress ($13, originally $15) pairs well with sneakers or sandals. Its flexible spandex fit and soft fabric will feel buttery soft on the skin. You'll love the scoop neckline, cutout back, and unique slip.

Jean Shorts: Agolde Parker Long Loose Fit Vintage Shorts
agolde.com

Jean Shorts: Agolde Parker Long Loose Fit Vintage Shorts

Trust us — once you put these Agolde shorts ($128) on, you won't want to take them off all summer. They're long without being Bermuda length, so they still show off plenty of leg. Plus, they're so comfortable and stretchy. Wear them over your bathing suit to the beach or with a cute top out at night — these shorts can do both.

Colorful Sandals: Birkenstock Siena Sandals
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Colorful Sandals: Birkenstock Siena Sandals

If you want sandals that are colorful and comfortable, go for these cute Birkenstock Siena Sandals ($130). They're slightly different from the classic Arizona sandals, but we love the orange for summer. Plus, the cork footbed will mold to your feet, making them supremely comfortable.

A Trendy Sun Hat: Formes Holiday Bucket Hat
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A Trendy Sun Hat: Formes Holiday Bucket Hat

Gear up for your next beach trip with this Formes Holiday Bucket Hat ($120). The hat is casual, trendy, and made of soft cotton that will keep your head protected and cool all at once. Its wide brim is super stylish and great for keeping the sun off your face.

An Effortless Blouse and Shorts: Fixmatti Two-Piece Summer Shorts Set
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An Effortless Blouse and Shorts: Fixmatti Two-Piece Summer Shorts Set

This chic and on-trend Fixmatti Two-Piece Summer Shorts Set ($33) comes in tons of colors and looks pretty with both sneakers and sandals. Our editors are totally obsessed with the lightweight fabric. It's available in 18 color options, but this blue might be our favorite.

A Cool and Vibrant Knit: Crochet Knit Crop Top
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A Cool and Vibrant Knit: Crochet Knit Crop Top

The colorful design of this Crochet Knit Crop Top ($17) will turn heads, no doubt. And while you might think, "long sleeves in the summer?" this top is breathable enough that you won't get too hot wearing it. (Even on 80-plus degree days.) Wear it with jean shorts and strappy sandals to make a statement.

For Comfort: Cushionaire Feather Recovery Pillow Cloud Slides Sandal
amazon.com

For Comfort: Cushionaire Feather Recovery Pillow Cloud Slides Sandal

The Cushionaire Feather Recovery Pillow Cloud Slides Sandal ($25) might not be the most stylish slides you've ever laid eyes on, but you'll fall in love with their waterproof design and pillowy-soft sole. The nearly 11,000 positive Amazon reviews speak for themselves — they're like clouds for your feet!

A Colorful Dress: Zara Linen Blend Knit Mini Dress
zara.com

A Colorful Dress: Zara Linen Blend Knit Mini Dress

This fun Zara Linen Blend Knit Mini Dress ($50) is perfect for summer trips. The colorblocking feels tropical and sexy, and we love the contrasting straps. Plus, the linen blend is a great option for hot summer days and nights.

A Mini Dress: Anthropologie Emily Halter Mini Dress
anthropologie.com

A Mini Dress: Anthropologie Emily Halter Mini Dress

How adorable is this Anthropologie Emily Halter Mini Dress ($140)? We love the halter neckline, the keyhole cutout, and the short hemline. It's flirty, fun, and perfect for summer.

An Everyday Tank Top: H&M Ribbed Tank Top
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An Everyday Tank Top: H&M Ribbed Tank Top

This H&M Ribbed Tank Top ($8) will be a staple in your closet. Pair it with jeans or a skirt, or even layer it with a jacket on days it cools off. Its ribbed material is comfortable, breathable, and goes with practically anything.

Lace Up Shorts: Alemais Carlos Lace Up Shorts
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Lace Up Shorts: Alemais Carlos Lace Up Shorts

These Alemais Carlos Lace Up Shorts ($275) are sexy, fun, and perfect for summer. It looks great with a floral top or classic white tank. The short's braided trim makes them extra breathable, and their midweight fabric feels comfortable on hot days.

Long Denim Shorts: Zara ZW The ‘90s Shorts
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Long Denim Shorts: Zara ZW The ‘90s Shorts

If you love the long short look, you need these Zara ZW The '90s Shorts ($46). They have a relaxed fit that's casual and effortless, so you can pair them with everything and anything (including a bikini top) for a staple summer look. Their front zip and button closure makes them easy to take on and off.