6 Chic Summer Outfits That Require Only 2 or 3 Pieces to Create

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(Image credit: @emilisindlev)

There is certainly a time and place for those more high-concept outfits featuring lots of layers and accoutrements. On the flip side, pared-down ensembles featuring just a few pieces can also be appealing—especially if you’re looking to keep it easy. We’re going to focus on these outfits today. Yep, below, you’ll find a range of spring/summer outfit ideas that require only two or three pieces. 

Remember, a simple outfit doesn’t translate to "boring.” You can actually have quite the forward vibe even with just two to three items. And that’s what the ensembles coming your way will showcase. Keep scrolling for a range of inspiration, including outfits with jackets if it's chillier where you live, along with other options. There are also product recommendations if you’re in the mood to do a little shopping.

1. Printed Midi Dress + Sandals

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(Image credit: @claudia_berresford)

Style Notes: The midi dress (especially printed iterations) will no doubt be quite popular this season. Add some sandals and a basket bag, and you're set.

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2. White Shirt + Loose Jeans

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

Style Notes: This is about as simple and forward as it gets with the of-the-moment loose white shirt and relaxed jeans. A no-fail outfit formula among the fashion crowd.

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3. Co-Ord + Flats

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(Image credit: @bubblyaquarius)

Style Notes: A sleek co-ord will instantly give off an elevated feel, but with minimal effort. You need nothing more than a pair of flats to complete this standout look.

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4. Relaxed Shirt + Linen Trousers

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(Image credit: @aysha.sow)

Style Notes: The shirt-and-linen-trouser look is trending so hard right now. Toss the combination on with a ribbed crop top underneath, or leave your button-up undone.

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5. Tank + Miniskirt

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(Image credit: @cassdimicco)

Style Notes: Miniskirts will reign supreme this season, and look very "right now" teamed with a simple white tank.

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6. Slouchy Blazer + Cropped Tank + White Jeans

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(Image credit: @mon.agar)

Style Notes: You can't deny the power of a slouchy blazer for a chic look. This spring, try one over a bralette or cropped tank and white jeans.

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Next Up: I Thought I Had No Clothes, But I Own Everything I Need for These 9 Summer Looks

This post originally appeared on Who What Wear US and has since been updated. 

Market Director

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent over seven years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retailers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises. He has also worked across a variety of other media brands and fashion retailers like Refinery29, PureWow, Men's Health, and Gilt covering commerce, trend reporting, women's and men's fashion, home, and lifestyle.