What do your August plans (and adjoining summer outfits) look like? The surprise heatwave took my wardrobe off-kilter, and although I'm not satisfied with the amount of sun I've had this Great British summer (my mind has been tricked into autumn mode)— summer's not over quite yet!
To begin with, there are still holidays to pack for. Many of my colleagues are on a countdown for a long-overdue adventure in Greece, Italy or the south of France. Me? I'll be staycationing and enjoying the best beaches (read: pebbles) Sussex has to offer. But there are parties, weddings, office days, festivals, work events, BBQs and so many more G-cal moments in between, so a little August outfit planning isn't such a bad idea. The month is looking busy, so having an arsenal of trusty throw-on looks that work for multiple occasions is a smart move. Many of the Instagrammed looks I've documented below won't require anything new. For example, I think it's highly likely you have a fabulous dress hanging in your wardrobe and a pair of simple flat sandals that you turn to time and again. Maybe you've already invested in a pair of wide-leg tailored trousers and just need an excuse to keep on wearing them over and over again. Permission granted.
Keep scrolling to see what to wear in August, inspired by the coolest fashion people I know and with a few handy shopping picks for your reference.
What to Wear in August: 7 Stylish Outfits to Try Now
1. Wide-Leg Trousers + Short-Sleeve Linen Shirt
Style Notes: It's as simple as it gets, but it just works! White and blue is a classic summer combination and the addition of tan and black accessories here gives it both a cool spin and an autumnal nod. Bravo, Brittany.
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This breezy style comes in four other versatile colours.
A good belt will serve you well all year round.
You can get these in both petite and regular lengths for an even better fit.
These are high up on my summer wishlist.
2. Colourful Dress + Basket Bag
Style Notes: What could be more joyful than a dopamine-inducing dress? Nothing of course! All you need to finish this look is a classic basket bag and a pair of simple yet comfy sandals. Job done.
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The kind of dress that works just as well for a garden party as it does for the beach.
Wear with… everything!
This iconic basket bag will never go out of style.
3. Pretty Top + Bermuda Shorts
Style Notes: Bermuda shorts made a comeback last summer, and the hype shows no signs of slowing down in 2025. Add a trending polka-dot top to elevate the classic style.
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Polka dots are the It print of 2025.
A pair smart enough for the office.
The perfect heel height, in my opinion.
Resin bangles will elevate any summer outfit.
4. Shift Dress + Flip-Flops
Style Notes: Shift dresses are back (if they ever left), but especially in breezy linen or cotton fabrications. They're great with flip-flops and a basket bag in ther day, but can easily be worn with a pair of kitten heels and a sleek clutch for evenings.
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For something that feels holiday-ready, this Dissh style is perfect.
Opt for a leather fabrication that will last in your wardrobe.
A pretty take on the classic basket bag.
5. Simple Shirt + Jeans
Style Notes: Knowing how unpredictable the weather can be here in the UK, I always keep a few pairs of jeans at hand for those in-between days. Pair with some easy pieces that can be layered or taken off depending on the weather.
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Practical and cute.
Layer this simple tank underneath.
Just perfect.
This comes in two other colours, and I love them all.
6. White Tank + White Skirt
Style Notes: A white tank and tonal skirt is a classic outfit that you can;t go wrong with. To make it feel fresh for 2025, add a colourful scarf around the waist and throw on a trendy cord necklace.
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Simple, stylish and easy to style.
This is so elegant.
This scarf is just so chic.
The perfect finishing touch.
7. Shirt Dress + Sunglasses
Style Notes: Not sure on what to wear? A simple maxi shirt dress is an easy throw-on style that you can wear to the office or out with friends this August, Add some pared-back accessories for an elegant look.
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Easy, breezy elegance.
These Aeyde flip-flops have become an office-wide obsession.
I'd wear this is any season.
So chic!
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