It’s summer, and we’re outside making memories, but we are also literal Hot Mamas! As a busy mom and a fashion stylist, my summer mantra is to keep it simple. With a few smart wardrobe selections, you can beat the heat and still feel put together.
Here are some wardrobe tips for moms on the go that will keep you cool – and stylish – whether you are chasing a toddler, running errands, or catching up with your girlfriends.
1. Fabrics That Breathe
Light, airy fabrics made of cotton and linen are your absolute best friends for combating summer heat. If you’re going to be incredibly active (or just sweating through a park date), you can also opt for moisture-wicking synthetics, which are designed to be non-absorbent and dry in a flash.
2. White & Light Blouse(s)
Make sure you have a go-to (or go-three!) of these tops in your closet. Mix up the silhouettes to keep things interesting:
- A breezy shell tank
- A short, cap-sleeve gauzy peasant blouse
- A long-sleeve linen button-down (roll up the sleeves for that effortless beach vibe)
3. Short Silhouettes
I love shorts. Being a mom and a stylist means I need to be highly mobile, and shorts allow me to do both jobs with ease. If you think you “can’t wear shorts,” trust me—there is a length and cut for everyone! Explore different silhouettes like:
- The Skort or Culotte: All the movement of shorts with the polished look of a skirt.
- The Streamlined Capri: Chic, retro, and offers great sun protection.
Stylist Tip: You can easily dress up shorts with a great belt, a chic bag, and metallic sandals. To elongate your frame, try a monochromatic palette to create a long visual line.
4. Loose, Pull-On Pant
Pick your style—whether it’s a wide-leg linen pant or a cotton cover-up jogger—and I promise you will love the ease and comfort. These are perfect for pool trips, picnics, and beach cover-ups. Honestly, they basically pay for themselves because they do double duty as chic daytime wear and late-night mosquito shield or pajamas.
5. Simple Sundress
When picking a sundress, it should feel like air. Avoid things that make a dress feel heavy: the wrong material, too much fabric, over-designed elements (like hyper-poofy sleeves), or a heavy lining that makes you feel like you’re wearing two dresses at once.
Aim for simplicity. If you can wear it to an al fresco girls’ brunch and pack it for a beach trip with the family, it’s a winner.
6. Statement Sunhat
A wide-brimmed raffia hat or a chic canvas bucket hat does double duty: it protects your skin from the aging effects of UV rays and perfectly hides beach hair. Look for styles with an adjustable inner band so it doesn’t fly off while you’re chasing the kids.
7. Portable Fan
You can go the tech route with a battery-operated pocket fan (a total lifesaver at youth sports games and commuting). Or, as I’ve been inspired by my recent travels to Italy and Korea, pack a beautiful, old-fashioned folding hand fan in a fun print or woven bamboo.
8. Chic Scarf
This versatile accessory can be used as a neck scarf to absorb perspiration. It can also be tied around your wrist as a wrap bracelet, or adorning your crossbody bag and then subtly removed to dab the brow as needed.
9. Slip-On, No-Sweat Shoe
- Slip-on sandals or shoes are a mom’s best friend. Look for metallic finishes to elevate even the simplest styles, and consider a low wedge or chunky sole that won’t sink into the grass.
- For days when your toes aren’t pedicure-ready, get a woven canvas or raffia shoe, like an espadrille, that breathes. Your feet will thank you.
10. A Lighter Load
Finally, swap heavy leather bags for canvas or raffia totes. Lightweight natural materials feel cooler and will complete your summer look beautifully, whether neutral or a bright seasonal pop of pattern or color.
