Easy Summer Outfits That Are Just Four Pieces or Less

Although summer continually remains one of the most anticipated seasons, it still somehow has a bad rep when it comes to getting dressed. People love layering in cozy sweaters, adorning themselves in scarves and throwing on a chic coat, but when we have to dress for warmer temperatures, the same tender sentiments just aren’t there. The secret to deciding what to wear for this season is the same rule my tenth-grade writing teacher used to preach: keep it simple, stupid! And while Ms. Trent's advice was crucial for my report card, it's also applicable for getting ready in the morning. Build yourself a tight wardrobe with a few good pieces and rotate them out during the June, July and August months. Below, we curated seven outfit options that are perfect for looking chic, getting out the door and enjoying the day. Because that’s what summer is about – soaking in the carefree energy.

A Cali-girl’s dream. Finding a good fitting Bermuda short often proves to be challenge, but these hang high on the waist and hit right above the knee, giving them a flattering fit. Having a lightweight sweater is the underrated star of the office. For this look, layer a sweater over a crew neck tee shirt. This pick from Naadam is at an unbeatable price

.1) Raey t-shirt, $90 2) Naadam sweater, $75 3) Slvrlake shorts, $265 4) Staud sandals, $265

A white eyelet babydoll is quintessential summertime piece. While this mini-dress can be worn solo, pair with biker shorts, and leave unbuttoned from the waist down to give it an extra twist. Pointed-toe flats will give it a polished touch and are an elegant, yet practical summertime shoe choice.

1) Rebecca Taylor dress, $325 2) Bernadette bag, $695 3) ATM Anthony Thomas Melillo shorts, $175 4) Salvatore Ferragamo flats, $675

Woman on the prowl. This mesh leopard dress is a breathable fabric and perfect for summer temperatures that tip the scale. Pair with a matching clip for an effortless hair-do that takes no more than 30 seconds. And just like that, you're good to go.

1) Ganni dress, $345 2) Valet Studio hair clip set, $80 3) Simon Miller sandals, $390

Draping at its finest. This asymmetric blouse from JW Anderson layers nicely over a mid-length, breezy skirt. The strappy sandal helps tapper the look and top it off with an orange lip.

1) JW Anderson top, $618 2) Dior lipstick, $38 3) See by Chloe skirt, $161 4) By Far sandals, $293

Here is your dress alternative - a jumpsuit. Add a strappy sandal and a chic pin in your hair and you're dressed and ready to go in two minutes flat.

1) Nanushka jumpsuit, $321 2) Deborah Pagani hair pin, $90 3) Raen sunglasses, $150 4) Proenza Schouler sandals, $620

The color synonymous with summer: white. This all-white look feels both grecian and breezy. Pair light-weight pants with a matching top to create a canvas for your accessories to shine. Editor's note: it's important that your belt and jewelry and any other accessories you add are good quality since the look itself is so minimal.

1) ATM Anthony Thomas Melillo top, $98 2) Jennifer Zeuner bracelet, $165 3) Theory trousers, $325 4) Maison Vaincourt belt, $275

Florals: the ultimate anti-depressant. Pair this ulta-girly floral dress with small hoops and matching heels for a look that exudes joy.

1) Faithfull the Brand dress, $113 2) Tai hoops, $40 3) Maryam Nassir Zadeh heels, $527

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