Girl, What Do I Even Wear to School When It’s 90 Degrees Outside?!
Okay, real talk—summer school outfits are tricky. You're trying to look cute (obviously), not sweat through your clothes (also obviously), and still keep things chill and classroom-appropriate. Like, I want to be comfy enough to survive the heat, but not look like I just rolled out of bed and gave up on life.
So if you’ve been staring into the closet abyss every morning wondering how to balance casual, cool, and "I kinda tried,” I got you covered. These 20 cute & casual outfit ideas for school this summer will seriously upgrade your warm-weather wardrobe—without making you late for first period. 😉
(And yep, I’ve tried most of these fits myself—so this isn’t just Pinterest daydreaming.)
1. Oversized Tee + Biker Shorts
The “I Look Cool but I’m Actually Comfy” Combo
This one's basically a summer uniform at this point.
- Go oversized with your tee—think band tees, pastel graphics, or vintage vibes.
- Pair it with high-waisted biker shorts. Ribbed or seamless? Even better.
- Add white crew socks + chunky sneakers for that lowkey sporty aesthetic.
Why it works: It gives you streetwear energy without looking like you’re trying too hard. Bonus points if your tee slightly covers your shorts. (Is it a dress? Is it shorts? Mystery. Intrigue.)
2. Cropped Tank + Wide-Leg Jeans
Yes, You Can Wear Jeans in the Summer… If They’re Breezy
I know what you’re thinking: Jeans? In this heat? Girl, no. But hear me out.
- Light-wash, wide-leg or baggy jeans won’t cling to your legs like skinny jeans do. Major win.
- Cropped tanks or baby tees balance out the bagginess.
- A claw clip and simple chain can elevate the whole thing in 0.5 seconds.
Real life tip: I’ve done this on days with back-to-back classes and still felt cool (temp-wise and vibe-wise). Avoid dark washes—they trap heat like it’s their job.
3. Flowy Sundress + White Sneakers
Serving “I Woke Up Like This” Energy (And Maybe You Did)
There’s something about tossing on a sundress that just feels like summer. It’s cute. It’s one piece. It’s basically cheating at fashion.
- Go for a floral or pastel print to keep things fresh.
- Pair with white sneakers or slip-on Vans to make it casual enough for school.
- Add a denim jacket in your backpack in case the classroom AC is on full-blast (why are schools always freezing??).
FYI: This one’s a go-to for picture days or when you want to impress your crush without trying too hard. Not saying it’s magic, but… it kinda is. ✨
4. Button-Up Shirt + Tank + Denim Shorts
Casual with Just a Hint of “I Read Vogue Sometimes”
This is the ultimate “cool girl” summer look—and yes, it works even when you’re just walking between math and science.
- Start with a neutral or striped button-up shirt (linen = chef’s kiss).
- Layer it open over a cropped tank or ribbed cami.
- Throw on high-waisted denim shorts and finish with sneakers or Birks.
Why it works: You look put together, but like you didn’t overthink it. Which is the entire goal, right?
5. Graphic Tee + Tennis Skirt
A Little Preppy, A Little Punk, All Adorable
You know those tennis skirts that are everywhere on TikTok? Turns out, they’re actually super wearable IRL.
- Pick a pleated tennis skirt (white, black, pastel—go nuts).
- Tuck in a slouchy graphic tee—the more retro the better.
- Add crew socks + sneakers, and maybe a claw clip for main character energy.
My take: I wore this to school last month and someone legit asked if I was on the tennis team. I am not. But thanks for the aesthetic win, universe.
6. Matching Co-Ord Set (Top + Shorts)
AKA The “I Didn’t Try But Still Look Bomb” Set
Matching sets are THE summer cheat code. You get the vibe of a coordinated outfit—without having to think. At all.
- Look for ribbed knit or cotton sets—crop tops + shorts are the go-to.
- Solid colors work great, but tie-dye or subtle patterns can be fun too.
- Keep the rest simple: white sneakers, tiny hoops, and maybe a crossbody bag.
IMO: This is perfect for those "I woke up 10 minutes before my ride gets here" days. You still look polished. The magic of the match.
7. Paperbag Shorts + Ruffle Sleeve Blouse
When You Wanna Look Cute Without Committing to Jeans (or Effort)
Paperbag shorts are honestly underrated. They’re comfy like PJs, but they look like you made an effort. Add a soft ruffle or puff sleeve top and bam—you’ve got soft girl vibes in 60 seconds.
- Go for lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton—your thighs will thank you.
- Pick a tucked-in blouse or cropped tee to balance the volume of the shorts.
- Finish with strappy sandals or loafers, depending on the mood.
Pro tip: These shorts are high-waisted, so they cinch everything just right. Like… bless. 🙌
8. Tank Dress + Flannel Shirt (Optional Tie Around Waist)
Casual, Cool, and Slightly ’90s—In the Best Way
You know those bodycon tank dresses? They’re the summer MVP. Not too short, not too tight—just right.
- Choose a ribbed cotton tank dress in black, gray, or sage green.
- Throw a plaid flannel over your shoulders or tie it around your waist (hello, waist definition).
- Add Converse or slip-ons, and call it a day.
Why this works: You’re basically wearing a blanket (the flannel), but in a cute, Pinterest-core kind of way. Plus, flannel = built-in classroom layer. Love that for us.
9. Casual Jumpsuit or Romper
One-Piece = No-Brainer, 10/10 Would Recommend
Okay, let’s talk about rompers. They’re like the cheat code of summer outfits: one thing to throw on, and you’re instantly stylish and school-appropriate.
- Look for rompers with adjustable straps and a slightly looser fit (no wedgies, please).
- Add a bucket hat or sunglasses (just for recess or after class), and you’re golden.
- White sneakers or sandals finish the look.
BTW: Rompers are perfect for those "I can’t deal today" mornings. Just zip, tie, and go.
10. Tube Top + Oversized Shirt + Baggy Jeans
A Bit Edgy, A Bit Chill, 100% Cute
Tube tops in the summer? YES. Just keep it layered for school. Enter the oversized button-down or shirt-jacket (shacket, if you're fancy).
- Pick a solid or ribbed tube top (crop length).
- Throw an open oversized shirt or flannel on top.
- Add baggy jeans or parachute pants to keep it laid-back.
Heads up: This fit is major cool-girl energy, especially if you pair it with a messy bun and layered necklaces. She understood the assignment.
11. Midi Skirt + Cropped Tee
Because Not All Skirts Are Mini (and That's Okay)
If you’re not in the mood for showing a ton of leg (or if your school has that one weird dress code lady...), a midi skirt keeps things breezy and chill.
- Go for flowy, printed skirts—floral, polka dots, or abstract patterns are 🔥.
- Pair with a cropped or knotted tee to avoid that awkward “frumpy” zone.
- Chunky sneakers or sandals bring it all together.
Personal opinion: Midi skirts are secretly more comfy than jeans. And they make you feel slightly magical while walking across campus. Just me?
12. Knit Crop Top + Denim Skirt
A Little Y2K, A Lotta Summer Vibes
This combo gives cute-girl-next-door-meets-retro—it’s flirty but still school-appropriate.
- Choose a knit or crochet crop top (bonus if it has buttons or a scallop hem).
- Match with a denim mini skirt (skater or straight cut both work).
- Add high-top sneakers and a mini backpack, because ✨aesthetic✨.
FYI: If your skirt’s a bit short, toss on some biker shorts underneath. Comfort and modesty? We stan smart fashion.
13. Linen Pants + Ribbed Tank
Yes, You Can Be Cozy AND Chic. At School. In July.
Linen pants are the holy grail of summer bottoms. They feel like PJs but somehow look super elevated—especially with the right tank.
- Grab a pair of high-waisted wide-leg linen pants in tan, sage, or black.
- Tuck in a ribbed cropped tank or cami.
- Add slip-on sandals or sneakers for ultimate comfort.
IMO: This is the outfit you wear when it’s so hot that even thinking about jeans makes you sweat. Been there. 😩
14. Cargo Skirt + Graphic Tee
Because Utility Can Be Cute Too
Cargo skirts are having their main character moment, and honestly? I'm here for it. They're giving "tactical but make it cute," and I kinda love that chaotic energy.
- Pick a khaki or black cargo skirt with big pockets (perfect for stashing lip balm and gum).
- Add a slouchy or tucked-in graphic tee—bonus points if it’s vintage or band-inspired.
- Finish the look with platform sneakers or chunky slides.
Why I’m obsessed: You look like you're ready for class and a spontaneous photoshoot. Win-win.
15. Collared Cropped Polo + Tennis Skirt
Prep School Chic, But Make It Summer-Ready
If you’ve ever wanted to channel your inner Serena van der Woodsen (without the drama), this fit’s for you. It’s sporty, flirty, and ridiculously comfy.
- Opt for a cropped collared polo in pastel or neutral tones.
- Pair it with a pleated tennis skirt—white, navy, or plaid are top picks.
- Add crew socks + white sneakers, and you’ll look like you stepped out of a K-pop MV.
Low-key tip: These skirts usually have built-in shorts, so no wardrobe malfunctions. Bless.
16. Cropped Cardigan + High-Waisted Shorts
For When It’s Hot Outside but Freezing in Classrooms 😅
Why do schools insist on blasting the AC like it's Antarctica?! A cute cropped cardigan saves the day—and your arms.
- Choose a soft, ribbed or fuzzy cropped cardigan, either buttoned up or layered over a tank.
- Pair with mom shorts or paperbag denim shorts.
- Top it off with minimalist jewelry and sandals for a polished finish.
IMO: You’ll be cozy in class, and still summer-ready when the bell rings. Duality, baby.
17. Oversized Graphic Tee + Biker Shorts
Lazy But Make It Fashion™
This one’s for those “I hit snooze five times” kinda mornings. It’s comfy, trendy, and honestly, you can’t mess it up.
- Grab an oversized graphic tee—the bigger, the better.
- Pair it with black or colorful biker shorts (with pockets, if you’re living right).
- Add dad sneakers and a claw clip for full influencer-off-duty vibes.
Bonus points: If your tee is thrifted or raided from your sibling’s closet? Even better.
18. Button-Up Shirt + Bralette + Straight-Leg Jeans
Effortless and Low-Key Sophisticated
You know those crisp button-up shirts sitting in your closet? Yeah, it’s time they got their moment. Wear it open with a cute bralette or crop top underneath.
- Choose a light cotton or linen button-up, preferably oversized.
- Layer it over a bralette or fitted tank.
- Pair with high-waisted, straight-leg jeans and some minimalist sneakers.
Why it works: It’s giving “I didn’t try hard” while secretly being v. put-together. We love that little fashion lie.
19. Baby Tee + Parachute Pants
Streetwear Baddie Energy, Activated
Parachute pants are THE move if you want an outfit that’s comfy, breezy, and dripping with Gen Z cool.
- Snag a fitted baby tee (with a logo, flower, or slogan for some spice).
- Pair with loose, adjustable-waist parachute pants.
- Throw on chunky sneakers or combat boots, depending on your mood.
FYI: You will get compliments. Prepare yourself emotionally. 😂
20. Matching Co-Ord Set (Top + Shorts/Skirt)
One Decision, Full Outfit = Summer Hack Unlocked
Matching sets are the lazy-girl holy grail. You get an instant outfit without the stress of mixing and matching. What’s not to love?
- Choose a lightweight cotton or terry cloth set with a cute pattern or pastel color.
- Whether it’s a crop top + skirt or tank + shorts, you’re good to go.
- Pair with sneakers or Birkenstock-style sandals and some oversized sunnies.
Personal take: Co-ords make you look like you really planned your outfit—even if you got dressed during your morning scroll. 😉
Final Thoughts: Your Summer Wardrobe = Unlocked ✅
So there you have it: 20 cute, casual outfit ideas for school this summer that’ll keep you cool, comfy, and confidently strutting from homeroom to lunch. Whether you’re channeling sporty chic, soft girl, or lowkey grunge, there's something here for every mood, every morning, and every “ugh, what do I wear?” panic attack.
Fashion in the summer isn’t about going over the top. It’s about feeling good, staying breezy, and serving just the right amount of sass—without sweating through your entire outfit (been there, not cute).
So go ahead—mix, match, and make these looks your own. 💁♀️
And hey, if all else fails? Oversized tee and biker shorts. Works every time. 😉
Which outfit are you rocking first? Let me know—I’ll be over here trying not to buy a fifth pair of linen pants 🫠