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“It’s not too hot, not too cold, all you need is a light jacket,” Miss Rhode Island (a.k.a. Cheryl) once said in Miss Congeniality, describing April 25 as her “perfect date.” This famous, always-quotable line feels especially fitting when you’re figuring out what to wear in 70-degree weather. Because the beauty pageant queen is right: A light jacket is nonnegotiable when it comes to dressing for a balmy forecast.
But what are some other pieces to have in your rotation for these kinda-hot, kinda-cold temps? According to stylist JenniLee, items made from natural fibers such as linen, cotton, and bamboo are ideal because they’re breathable, soft, and cooling. “Semisynthetic options like Tencel (lyocell) and Modal are excellent too,” she tells Glamour. “Tencel offers smooth, breathable comfort made through eco-friendly processes, while Modal provides silky texture with superior moisture control.”
In terms of specific pieces, Lee says white cotton tees are essential for elevated and casual outfits alike. “I love the classic Hanes Boys tee; Buck Mason for elevated, relaxed fits; and SoldOut NYC for modern cuts,” the stylist recommends. For an easy, throw-on-and-go formula to have in your back pocket, pair yours with denim cutoffs and flip-flops. For a trendier option, Lee says a fit-and-flare dress in jersey Tencel is an emerging It look this season. The piece pairs just as well with slide-on sandals as it does with everyday sneakers—it all just boils down to where you plan to go.
On that note, keep reading for more 70-degree-weather outfit inspiration and style tips for every occasion imaginable.
Linen button-down + breezy shorts
“A short-sleeve linen button-down and boxer shorts set in a fun print offers endless styling possibilities for this temperature,” Lee says. If you’re worried about it getting chilly while you’re out and about, opt for a long-sleeve top (you can always roll up the sleeves). Heels will dress up the ensemble for work or a date night; on the weekends, switch to Birkenstocks for a more casual look.
Layering cardigan + maxiskirt
Balmy weather allows for the opportunity to have fun with fashion—because, well, it won’t be long until you need to dress for the scorching, sticky heat. So give your lightweight cardigan one last moment in the sun before stowing it away until fall. Layer the knit over a lace bra for a fresh (and slightly sultry) styling approach on 70-degree days, or a tank top if you’re feeling more conservative. From there, balance out the top half of your look with an ankle-skimming maxiskirt.
Long shorts + printed blouse
It’s jorts season, baby. If you find yourself constantly styling yours with a plain ribbed tank, why not shake things up this summer? This colorful printed crop top and polished pumps outfit formula is unexpected but super stylish. Grab a barn jacket or cropped trench coat on your way out the door so you’re prepared for any AC situation.
Oversized T-shirt + midiskirt
We’d argue an oversized white tee is the most versatile piece out there. To elevate the T-shirt, turn to a satin or silk skirt. With the addition of metallic sneakers, the outfit toes the line between sophisticated and casual, making it the perfect choice for those spontaneous Saturdays that start with running errands and end in drinks with friends. Should the outfit need a little something extra, throw on cool sunglasses and a chunky bangle.
White dress + boat shoes
Your LBDs probably got plenty of mileage over the past few months. Now it’s time to let your white frocks have the chance to shine. For a casual weekend at the local farmers market, followed by a stroll through the park, wear the dress with boat shoes and a cardigan tied around your shoulders. A raffia tote is the cherry on top of an already unmatched warm-weather look.
Striped top + jean shorts
A getup of striped tank top and cutout denim shorts will, without question, strike a chord with minimalists who gravitate toward timeless prints. That’s not to say you can’t zhuzh up the look, though. A gold choker necklace and gladiator sandals are sure to do the trick. If the weather is still a little chilly in the mornings, add a hoodie or sweatshirt that you can throw into your bag or the trunk of the car once the afternoon sun hits.
Trousers + crisp button-front shirt
Dressing for the office when it’s 70 degrees outside is easier said than done. Still, there are plenty of outfit ideas to choose from—one being a crisp, breathable button-up with khaki trousers. You’ll feel cool and comfortable sitting at your desk, and should the AC be near your cubicle, layer a cardigan over the blouse.
Midi-dress + jeans
Like it or not, the dress-over-jeans styling hack from the early ’00s has returned with a vengeance. But style insiders are making a compelling argument for the polarizing combo. Don’t believe us? Just take a gander at the outfit above that also answers the question “What should I wear in 70-degree weather?” The duo of breezy midi or maxidress and wide-leg denim exude an instant cool-girl vibe and work well for those times when it’s too chilly to wear your frocks solo.
Slip dress + layers
“A silky Modal slip dress transitions perfectly from day to night,” says Lee. She recommends styling the number with a cotton button-up and sneakers for daytime, and then metallic heels and a blazer when the clock strikes 6 p.m. Keep these formulas in mind for your next date, whether it’s in the afternoon or evening.
Miniskirt + long-sleeve top
A miniskirt is just the thing to slip into in 70-degree weather. But you may want to save your midriff-baring crop tops for those toasty, sweltering hot summer days. Instead, we’d suggest a long-sleeve tee—we’ll let you pick the design. Finally, opt for a pair of on-trend ballet flats, such as this fiery red look, or loafers.