Throughout history, many songs have been written about summer, more specifically, rainstorms. Like them or not, showers have remained a source of inspiration for artists for centuries (while simultaneously being the foe of fashion people). Don't get me wrong—I relish an afternoon rainstorm in the summertime. It gives us a respite from heat waves and carte blanche to bump rain-centric melodies (think Natasha Bedingfield's "Unwritten"). But that doesn't take away from the fact that it's hard to discern what to wear when it's raining, especially in the summertime. Sure, you can wear those more obvious items such as rain boots or trench coats, but beyond that? Well, that's hard to tell.
Even for those who reside in cities where rainfall is expected—e.g., London, New York, Paris, and so on—it can take years to master the skill set of selecting the perfect outfit when precipitation is in the forecast. But if you're short on time, don't fret. In the vein of making dressing for wet days a bit less wearisome, I did extensive image research to craft the ultimate guide. Ahead, you'll find 12 summer rainy-day outfit ideas, styling tips, and shopping recommendations. If these stylish looks don't make you turn into the type of person who wants to sing in the rain, nothing will.
What You'll Need: Sunglasses + Trench Coat + White Minidress + Black Ballet Flats + Shoulder Bag
Styling Notes: What's one of the easiest ways to make your summer staples more rain-ready? Make simple swaps. For example, while sandals are great in the summer, if it's pouring outside, consider opting for a close-toe option (such as ballet flats or sneakers), as it will make your favorite white dress more pragmatic for the weather.
The great thing about trench coats? They always look expensive no matter how much you actually spend.
Be still my heart.
Such a steal.
What You'll Need: Trench Coat + T-Shirt + Slip Skirt + Flip-Flops + Woven Tote Bag
Styling Notes: If you can't stand wearing closed-toe shoes in the summer, it's understandable. The next easiest way to make any summer ensemble work for oncoming storms is to incorporate a trench coat into your look. Whether you pair it with a T-shirt and slip or a minidress, this classic outerwear can make anything weather-proof.
Don't be afraid to opt for this classic staple in a different color.
Just because it's not sunny outside doesn't mean you can't pretend you're by the beach with this tote bag.
With the proper styling, you can wear this skirt year-round.
What You'll Need: Sunglasses + Button-Down Shirt + Slip Dress + Mules + Shoulder Bag
Styling Notes: When it's far too humid outside to put on a trench coat, consider turning to another trusted staple: the slip dress. When rain showers are in the forecast, you can't go wrong with keeping it simple by styling a slip with a button-down shirt and heeled mules. Just don't forget to bring an umbrella!
You can't go wrong with a cotton button-down.
Slip dresses are always worth every single cent.
I'm obsessed with the toes on these mules.
What You'll Need: Sunglasses + Pendant Necklace + Maxi Dress + Jelly Sandals + Shoulder Bag
Styling Notes: If you live in a less humid climate, rainstorms can be a bit chillier. Luckily, the outfit above is the perfect solution. Opting for a maxi dress with jelly sandals will ensure you're comfortable no matter the outside climate.
Yes, it's big enough to fit your umbrella.
For colder rainy days, consider opting for a knitted maxi dress.
Jelly sandals are the style of the season.
What You'll Need: Dainty Jewelry + White Baby-Doll Minidress + Rain Boots + Umbrella
Styling Notes: When it's warm and wet outside, the two things you don't want to wear are tight dresses and open-toe shoes. Luckily, there's a solution: Re-create the outfit above. Pairing a breezy baby-doll minidress paired with rain boots will allow you to avoid the pitfalls of rainy days while still looking pretty.
When the weather isn't great, you use accessories to brighten your day.
Easy breezy.
These boots are so good that you'll be begging for a rainstorm so you can wear them.
What You'll Need: Sunglasses + Shoulder Bag + T-Shirt + Long Denim Shorts + Western Boots
Styling Notes: If you find the idea of wearing rainboots during a rainstorm reductive, let me give you a "wild" alternative: Western boots. Sure, there are plenty of other types of boots you can wear in the rain, but these shoes feel particularly cool—especially when they're styled with long denim shorts, a T-shirt, a shoulder bag, and shades.
You'll never regret investing in a cool oversize T-shirt.
Your search for the perfect pair of summer shorts is done.
Giddy up.
What You'll Need: Baseball Cap + Blazer + T-Shirt + Jeans + Sneakers + Handbag
Styling Notes: When it's pouring outside, sometimes it's best to pick an outfit that allows you to be a bit more covered up. Enter the look above. Not only is it smart to wear some form of a hat, but opting for a blazer, jeans, and sneakers will also ensure that you don't end up dripping wet.
Light layers are the secret to surviving summer showers in style.
Editor tip: Try to avoid baggier denim silhouettes when it's raining (unless you want your puddle pants to be covered in mud stains).
Mud, meet your match.
What You'll Need: Blouse + Capri Pants + Mules + Crescent Handbag + Umbrella
Styling Notes: While dressing pragmatically for the rain is important, it's only natural to want to look cute, too. Luckily, you can do both (refer to the outfit above). Pairing a printed blouse with pedal pushers, mules, a shoulder bag, and an umbrella will make you want to dance in the rain because you feel so cute.
Trés chic.
ICYMI, capri pants are on their comeback tour!
Forget dreaming of sunnier days when you can fantasize about this bag.
What You'll Need: Sunglasses + Light Sweater + Tank + Silk Trousers + Thong Sandals + Shoulder Bag
Styling Notes: Some rain showers make you want to dance, but others make you want to snuggle up. If you're leaning towards the latter, it's worth embracing light layers with your ensemble. Try styling a tank top and silk trousers with a light knit on top for an outfit that's both cozy and chic.
The perfect lightweight knit for summer.
Don't these trousers look so cozy?
It doesn't get more timeless than these sandals.
What You'll Need: Sunglasses + Layered Jewelry + Sweater Vest + T-Shirt + Linen Shorts + Socks + Loafers + Mini Bag
Styling Notes: When it's too hot to wear a full sweater, consider opting for one in sweater-vest form. Not only will it strike the perfect balance of lightness and coziness, but it'll also pair perfectly with other staples (e.g., tank tops, linen shorts, and loafers).
The cream hue of this vest is so chic.
Linen shorts will make even the most humid summer days far better.
The chunkier lug soles on these loafers ensures less slippage in the rain.
What You'll Need: Sunglasses + Tank + Waistcoat + Bangles + Slip Skirt + Socks + Sneakers
Styling Notes: Although layering in knitwear is a great way to make summer outfits a bit more rain-ready, when it's far too humid, it's worth swapping in other separates instead. Instead of wearing a sweater vest, opt for a waistcoat. It will allow you to layer without the materials being too heavy. Just be sure to style it with other comfortable items, such as a slip skirt and sneakers.
Without a doubt, this waistcoat will become the unsung hero of your summer wardrobe.
Slip skirts are an essential for summer.
Pro tip: Look for sneakers with rubber soles to withstand rainstorms.
What You'll Need: Headband + Cropped Trench Coat + Maxi Tank Dress + Fishnet Ballet Flats + Handbag
Styling Notes: Hopefully, by now, you've got a good grasp on what to wear when it's raining outside during the summer. But I'll leave you with one last reminder: When showers roll in, keep it simple. You won't regret throwing a cropped trench over a maxi tank dress. It's pragmatic, polished, and perfect for whatever the forecast has in store.
You'll wear this well into the fall.
Tank dresses are perfect for fluctuating temperatures.
Mesh flats are great for those muggy summer days.