17 Chic ways to style your daytime outfits for hot weather

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Go sheer to cool down
Ophelie Duvillard teases some skin with sheer sleeves and stockings. Wearing black doesn't always mean you'll overheat. We're loving the eye-catching florals here, too.
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Lovely lace
Ophelie Duvillard shows us a little more skin here, with an open-back dress and lace sleeves that reach mid-length. Perfect for warm weather while still looking chic and elegant.
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Above-knee dress + fishnets
Fashion blogger Anne Laure Sas-Mayaux teaches us a lesson in pairing a long-sleeved mini dress with fishnets to look cool as a cucumber in summer.
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Even long sleeves work with a mini skirt
A sleeved shirt in hot weather might not sound like the best idea, but pair it with a short skirt to bare some skin - the look will definitely turn heads.
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Skirt and heels
A pair of simple heels, a long and flowy skirt, and a black tank top. Understated and very chic indeed. Top off the summery look with a large tote and you're ready to head out the door.
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Stripes and denim
Nothing beats this fun and cheeky combination. Denim shorts make any basic top look casual and versatile - we're loving the stripe trend at the moment. This is a daytime look for the weekend.
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Bare shoulders
Fashion blogger Sarah Benziane looks refreshing in this off-shoulder striped top and a pair of dark denim jeans. Nothing screams summer more than bare shoulders and sunglasses!
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Chiffon & ruffles
Light and airy clothing like chiffon dresses and tops with ruffles create a more breathable outfit for hot weather. Take cues from this ensemble.
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The versatile bomber jacket
It's best to carry around a versatile jacket just in case you step into a cold shopping mall or decide to go to the movies - we're loving this star-printed dark blue number, which goes perfectly with this sweet summer dress.
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Embrace summer hues
Bright and light colours such as white, yellow and floral hues will make all the difference in your summer-esque outfits. We're loving this cooling combination of pleated skirt and white tank.
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Chic shorts
Don't go basic when it comes to your shorts. Find a pair that looks comfy, with a unique print that will remain trendy through the season.
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Ready for beach weather
If you're heading to the beach or to a pool party, pair your chicest one-piece swimsuit with a beachy skirt for the ultimate summer outfit. Even if you're not heading into the water, no one will realise you've got your swimmers on!
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City girl outfit
When mixing and matching pieces in your wardrobe gets too tough, you can always fall back on the crop top + printed shorts combination. Throw on a lightweight denim shirt if you don't like to bare too much skin.
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Loose-fitting trousers + fitting top
We're loving the trendy colour combo here, which throws out perfect city vibes. A fitting top will pair nicely with a baggier bottom piece to balance out the look.
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Get your stripes on with your dress
Say goodbye to sleeves and hello to a lightweight shift dress. Belt it at the waist to provide some definition to your silhouette.
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Sweet colours
Sweet prints and pastel hues are the trend at the moment. We love this short-sleeved dress in its dusty sky blue.
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Accessorise to the nines
A summer hat, sunglasses, and comfortable sneakers are a must when you're out and about in the hot sun!

If the blasted heat of Southeast Asia has been causing you to melt in your clothes on a daily basis, it’s time to reorganise your wardrobe and curate a collection that keeps you cool in hot weather.

Rules for dressing for hot weather:

Choose lightweight fabrics
You don't want to be bogged down by heavy wools and thick layers that will just stick to your skin and trap plenty of heat (and sweat). Opt for breathable cottons and sheer materials. As a bonus, they'll also dry quicker when you get caught in an unexpected downpour, and when you're doing your laundry!
It's okay to wear sleeves and long trousers
You might shirk away from long-sleeved shirts and denim jeans in hot weather, but find comfortable enough pieces and you'll be perfectly fine in the heat. Loose-fitting jeans instead of skinny pairs will definitely make you feel better if you're walking around outdoors. Clothing that have more fabric means they can offer your skin more sun protection, too.
Lighter colours are better
Sticking to solid dark colours might not be the best idea, so steer clear of anything black (yes, we know it's the chicest colour to wear), unless you're wearing it minimally. Colours like white and bright yellow won't absorb as much heat.
Adorn accessories that will keep you cool and your skin protected
Wide-brimmed hats will keep the sun off your face and neck, while sunglasses will protect your eyes from harsh UV rays. Instead of heavy, covered shoes, opt for sandals or open-toe block heels to keep things fresh.

Need some inspiration from the fashion gurus storming the streets in their most eye-catching ensembles? Head up to the gallery to check out just what you should be wearing to beat the heat.

Angela Goh

Photos: Getty Images

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