How to Dress for Hot Weather: Outfit Tips & Tricks

Summer in Minnesota is short, and we love spending every second outside once warmer temperatures finally arrive. But when it’s so hot that just sipping lemonade on a patio causes embarrassing sweat stains, we bolt back inside seeking the comfort of air conditioning. This summer, there’s no need to cancel plans when the forecast calls for hot and humid with a side of sticky because we styled two knockout looks that make those summer scorchers look like a cool breeze.

We tapped our hair and makeup artist to test drive the looks and share some pro tips for looking fresh when temperatures soar. Classically trained as a painter, Ingrid always makes our models look like masterpieces, whether she’s working in the backseat of a car or without electricity—and with the height of summer still ahead, we had to steal her secrets!

For Sizzling Days

Spending time with friends feeds her soul, and Ingrid won’t let the weather interfere with the weekly coffee dates she counts on to reconnect with her closest. An effortless tank and lightweight skirt—plus a cold press—kept her spirits high during a sizzling afternoon walk last weekend.

Shop the look: Tank (bra-friendly) | Skirt (flattering on all shapes) | Sandals (wear with everything!)

Our Tori Ribbed Tank is lightweight but not sheer—so you don’t need to layer with a cami to conceal your bra—and we love its double V-neck (less fabric is more!). The side slit on our Peyton Jensen Stripe Skirt gives you room to move while ruching lets you customize the length, allowing for easy strides as you walk and talk. Stay away from strappy sandals that constrict feet in the heat—these are an edgy alternative to classic Birks, and equally comfortable.

Ingrid’s Pro Tip: A tinted balm with SPF pulls double duty on hot days, giving you a hint of color and protecting your pout when you spend extended time in the sun. Most of us remember to protect our faces, but often forget our lips, which have the potential to burn quickly. Try Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment for your next catchup with friends. It’s not sticky, comes in a range of shades and swipes on sheer—so you don’t need a mirror to reapply after a couple of hours and a second coffee.

For Steamy Nights

Going out for dinner is one of Ingrid’s favorite ways to spend summer nights, and she and her husband often seek out dog-friendly spots in the city so her two dachshunds can tag along. A fuss-free dress and supportive wedges let Ingrid enjoy salads and sandwiches on the lawn to the tune of a local band, despite the heat.

Shop the look: Dress | Wedges

Our Allison Joy button dress fits loosely, allowing for airflow even when packed onto picnic blankets low to the ground, while the tie-waist ensures your shape isn’t totally disguised. Breezy fabric with a bit of bounce keeps you cool—and a dark color like navy will better conceal signs of perspiration if it does happen! Skip heels and wear it with comfortable wedges that let you get up and dance when the mood strikes.

Ingrid’s Pro Tip: Amp up your natural glow and the sultry feel of a hot summer night with a few swipes of highlighter. Dust a shimmery powder highlighter without glitter along your shoulders, collarbones and shins, or mix a liquid highlighter with your body cream. When the light catches these targeted areas, it creates a beautiful dewy effect (and elongates legs!). Make Up For Ever Pro Light Fusion Highlighter has the perfect amount of shimmer, giving you a lit-from-within look that won’t melt or cake in the heat and perfectly complements the skin-baring styles of summer.

Shop Ingrid’s summer makeup bag: Soleil Tan de Chanel | Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment Suncreen SPF 15 in Nude and Rosé | Make Up For Ever Pro Light Fusion Highlighter

What do you wear to stay cool on the hottest days of the year?