Literary Lifestyle: The Complete Simple Summer Style Guide for Writers

Summer is one of my favorite seasons because it is so style friendly and it invites writers away from their desks into the outdoors in search of fresh inspiration and experiences. If you are a writer who lives in casual wear at home, you may have an outfit crisis on your hands when it comes time to dress for a day out.

I do not consider myself a fashionista, but I have read simple summer style guides where every outfit cost several hundred dollars and it is a safe bet that either the shoes or the handbag will cost you as much, if not more, than the clothing that completes the outfit.

I have never bought anything from any summer style guide I have read and rarely find outfit inspiration. As a writer, I would much rather spend my money on pens, notebooks, workshops, or even books about writing. However, even though I am not about following clothing trends and prefer to spend my money on literary supplies, this does not mean I do not like to dress nicely.

Left to right: Maxi Skirt. Eyelet Top. Flowy Pants. Ruffle Dress.

As such, I am writing this simple summer style guide for writers. This guide is packed with style tips and outfit ideas you can put together with what you already own. My clothing recommendations are also inexpensive and include only pieces I would feel comfortable wearing or buying. Keep in mind that, although I link to online clothing shops for the sake of highlighting my summer style ideas, I buy most of my clothing at thrift shops or secondhand.

Written with the writer in mind, this simple summer style guide for writers is intended to help writers dress in comfortable, attractive clothing suitable for all occasions without taking away too much time from writing routines and busy schedules.

Simple Summer Style Tips

Here are seven simple summer style tips that will help you sort out your summer wear from the potential confusion inside your closet. Keep your lightweight, quirky clothing in the front of your wardrobe and organize your summer accessories for easy reach.

Wear loose clothing.

I hate it when clothes stick to me on a sweltering day. To avoid this, I favor looser clothing, like dresses, flowy skirts, and looser tops. I never wear miniskirts or pencil skirts, but would recommend avoiding anything that confines your body in the summer. I am not saying your clothing should be baggy, but it should also not be super tight. Aim for comfortable.

Natural fabrics are queen.

Cotton and linen are naturally breathable and much healthier for your skin. I try to wear cotton clothing as a rule, as cotton is soft, breathable, and comfortable. Admittedly, it is hard to find 100% cotton clothing these days, so I will settle for a mix, but I try to find mixes where cotton is the dominant cloth.

Go for cotton or linen pants or slacks instead of jeans.

I do not wear jeans as it is but know that denim is a pretty heavy fabric. If you are passionate about jeans, try to opt for wide-leg jeans over skinnier counterparts.

Simple Summer Style for Writers: Turn to dresses.

Left to right: Avery Jumpsuit. Evangeline Maxi Dress. Santa Fe Print Dress. Puff-Sleeved Dress.

Dresses are a summer staple! Summer dresses are breezy, pretty, and make throwing on an outfit so simple. I typically wear maxi dresses, but summer is the perfect time to get into your minidresses, rompers, and skirts.

Wear open shoes.

Left to right: Kimmie Sandal. Soft Flat Sandals. Braided Vamp Dress Sandals. Chaco Flip Sandals.

Sandals go perfectly with most summer looks as they are comfortable, come in a variety of styles, and let your feet breathe. I love my Chaco flip flops. They are durable, comfortable, and easy to step into.

Simple Summer Style: Accessories.

I hear it is a good idea to scale back on big earrings and jewelry accessories because they can stick to your skin. However, I wear my bracelets, rings, necklaces, and earrings in summer without discomfort, so I say accessorize with what you feel comfortable in.

I also love a wide-brimmed hat, but most people are all about their sunglasses and handbags. Scarves and belts are fun accessories and, when it comes to bags, I go for a nice tote or canvas bag. I love a big bag but, for all of you who like smaller bags, crossbody bags are lightweight and comfortable in the summer heat.

Left to right: Cotten Scarf. Foldable Floppy Hat. Seamed Tote Bag. Straw Sun Hat.

How to Dress for Writing Work in the Summer.

If you are speaking at an event, hosting a workshop, or doing a book signing, you may want to jazz up your outfit a little for the sake of the public, but always with your comfort in mind. Here are four simple ways to put together an outfit like a writer.

Charm with layers.

If you are coming out of the heat into a building with air conditioning, you will want a cotton cardigan that you can throw over your lighter top to keep you warm. I like open and long cardigans.

Explore one-piece garments.

I do not own any jumpsuits, but I want to try on a jumpsuit one of these days, as they look comfortable and elegant at the same time! Alternatively, dresses are also a great option because they come in every style from casual to fancy.

Wear a fancy shoe.

I am talking an attractive sandal or anything comfortable and stylish. If you are standing to speak for a lengthy period of time, avoid heels and go for a lower pump.

Accessorize with unusual accessories.

Put on your bookish earrings or jazz up your look with a floral scarf and a massive tote! Accessorize with pieces that make you stand out.

Simple Summer Style for the Beach-Bound Writer.

Left to right: Tankini Set. Beach Cover-Up. Boho Tote.

Going to the beach is a big part of summer for many people. If you are headed to the beach for a vacation or even for just a day with your book bag, beach bag, and writing supplies in hand, here are a few simple summer style tips for beach-bound writers.

1. Have a swimsuit you can swim in. More importantly, have a swimsuit you feel comfortable in.
2. Take a light cover-up. This could be a light dress or even a skirt. Or you could settle for your towel.
3. Take a BIG hat. I absolutely love a hat in the summertime. It shields your face from the sun and goes well with all beachwear.
4. Pack a beach bag. Pack your bag with plenty of water, sunscreen, and everything else that you personally need to enjoy a day at the beach.

Literary Lifestyle: Own your Author Style

They say what you wear is an extension of yourself. This is yet another reason I do not dress like the masses. I am expressive on paper, and I am expressive with what I wear. Summer is the perfect time to take in mind summer styling tips while also staying true to your personal style.

Take pride in your unique style.

Yes, summer is a time when it is recommended to wear light-colored clothes, but do not be afraid to wear the fun tops and skirts you own. I love an embroidered top or a skirt with tons of bounce! Ultimately, summer style is about enjoying summer in the clothing that makes you feel good.

From left to right: Bunny Ear Scrunchies. Pixar Earrings. Book Tote. Floral Kimono.

Dress for you.

Like I said, I am not about following clothing trends, so I dress for me first. I do not mind if I stand out or invite curiosity, as it is fun to connect with equally quirky people.

Break the rules.

We writers learn writing rules so we can break them. It is the same with clothing. Cherry-pick the useful advice from this post and adapt it to fit your style. Ignore the rest. For example, if you live in jeans in the summer and are comfortable in them, wear jeans against even expert advice.

Left to right: Open-Front Cardigan. Cotton Slacks. Floral Jumpsuit. Oversized Cardigan.

I hope you all enjoyed this simple summer style guide for writers! I look forward to sharing further literary fashion advice with you, especially as I am packing for college soon and plan to downsize my clothing into a more color-coordinated wardrobe.

What type of clothing do you favor in the summer? Do you have a favorite summer accessory? Share your summer essentials below!