Last updated on August 26th, 2022 at 03:26 pm
The summer always comes packed with special moments – lush green grass and clear blue skies enjoyed with a refreshing drink in the company of family and friends. Whether you’re heading to the beach or enjoying a barbecue in the back garden, you’ll want the perfect outfit to soak up the warmer weather.
Here we run through some of the top budget summer outfits to help you get the most popular looks for cheap.
- The skater look
- The boho look
- The smart-casual look
- The rock-chick look
- The beachy look
- The elegant-chic look
- The preppy look
- The bold look
- The nautical look
- The minimalist look
1. The skater look
If you’re into your 1990s nostalgia, the skater look will roll back the decades. The looseness of this style is perfect for warmer weather. Pair an over-sized graphic tee with loose shorts as a starting point. Finish things off with a cap and you’re almost good to go – all you need is the perfect pair of footwear.
Shoes we’d recommend for the skater look: Wrangler Ray Pocket Men’s Black Canvas Shoe
Comfy and casual sneakers deliver the perfect finishing touch to any skater look. The black canvas and white trimming will blend with the colours and tones of the rest of your outfit. Their slip-on design and round toes makes them easy to slip on and off and provides enough room to keep your feet feeling fresh in the heat of summer.
2. The boho look
Flowing layers and bright prints come together to form a light summery boho look. Start with a pair of frayed denim shorts or maxi skirt and add a loose-fitting shirt. Layer up with a wide-knit cardigan or patterned scarf in case of a summer breeze. For those final finishing touches, add a large floppy-brimmed hat and large-framed sunglasses.
Shoes we’d recommend for the boho look: Hush Puppies Margot Slip On Loafer in Tan
A simple tan loafer is a comfortable and stylish way to complete your summer boho look. The tassel detailing is spot-on for the boho style, and the low price is perfect for a cheap summer outfit. The slip-on design and neutral colour of these loafers make them ideal for everyday summer wear.
3. The smart-casual look
A smart-casual look will see you through any summer event – a summer wedding, barbecue birthday party or even a romantic meal on a summer holiday. Pull together a light shirt and a pair of relaxed chinos to form a timeless smart-casual look. Don’t forget to roll up your sleeves to keep your forearms cool and your look on-point.
Shoes we’d recommend for a smart-casual look: Silver Street Neal Men’s Tan Slip-on Loafers
The fine stitching detail of these slip-on loafers creates a smart look that complements any outfit without being too over the top. Because they’re laceless, they’re far more relaxed and casual than a regular pair of loafers too, making them perfect for lazy summer lunches.
4. The rock-chick look
A pair of denim shorts can be adapted to many different styles, including a classic rock-chick look. Just because the sun is out for summer, it doesn’t mean you can’t keep up that classic black look. Stick on your favourite band tee with a pair of denim shorts, a leather jacket and a headscarf to keep your head cool in the heat.
Shoes we’d recommend for a rock-chick look: BLU Women’s Black Fashion Lace-up Canvas Shoes
This classic pair of lace-up shoes is ideal for achieving the rock-chick look. Their light canvas material will help your feet breathe and stay cool in the peak summer weather. With a small platform sole and subtle detailing, these shoes can fit in with any combo of band T-shirt and denim shorts.
5. The surfer look
Summer is the best time to head to the beach. Before you pack up your picnic basket and beach towels though, you need the perfect budget holiday outfit. A pair of light board shorts and a loose T-shirt or button down are the best threads to wear for splashing along the shore or kneeling in the sand.
Shoes we’d recommend for the surfer look: Galop Men’s Black Sports Sandal
Not only will the open design of these black sandals keep your feet cool in the summer heat, they’ll also be easy to clean the sand out of when it’s time to head home. The zany design helps create a summer holiday feel.
Find out more about how to choose the right summer sandals.
6. The elegant-chic look
A sleek knee-length slip skirt and light sleeveless blouse are perfect for those summer moments when you really want to make an impression. The elegant lines and soft materials create a sophisticated look which will both elevate your style and keep you cool in the heat.
Shoes we’d recommend for the elegant-chic look: Hush Puppies Women’s Bryony Mule Sandal
Sure, you could choose to dress down your elegant-chic look with a simple ballet pump. But if you’ve got a special summer occasion coming up, you can’t go wrong with a lush strappy sandal. The adjustable ankle strap ensures a secure and comfortable fit, while the woven caged leather design is sure to turn heads. They’re perfect when wearing for long periods at proms, weddings or other special dates.
7. The preppy look
If you want a look that combines summer coolness with a smarter edge, then a preppy look is for you. Pick a pair of tailored shorts and combine them with a stylish button-down shirt. Roll up your sleeves and top everything off with a light jumper or jacket ready for the cooler evenings.
Shoes we’d recommend for the preppy look: Cushion Walk Declan Men’s Casual Tan Slip-on Shoes
These casual men’s slip-on shoes might offer a more relaxed style than traditional leather loafers, but they’ll still deliver that preppy feel you’re going for. They’ve been designed with comfort in mind, with flat comfy soles that give your feet the support they need.
8. The bold look
The summer calls for bright, bold colours that match the eye-catching floral colours all around us. All it takes to create a stand-out summer look is a bold block-colour dress and a brightly coloured headband for a look that beams from head to toe. Pick a dress that has straps or cap sleeves to keep your arms cool and choose a lighter fabric that allows the summer breeze to reach your skin.
Shoes we’d recommend for the bold look: Rieker Sina Women’s Leather Sling Back in White
A nice, breezy neutral white really shouts summer. These gorgeous white heels are the perfect finishing touch to your bold summer look. The synthetic sole and short heel break up your look with a modern edge that really makes a statement. Additionally, the simple sling back strap ensures both quick and easy fitting for all. These heels also have multi coloured lattice detailing for a more sophisticated appearance.
9. The nautical look
If you’re planning on spending your summer months by the sea, you can’t go wrong with a nautical look. With a pair of comfortable shorts and a stripy T-shirt, you’ll fit right in along the coastline with this budget holiday outfit. Add a wicker trilby or sun hat and dark sunglasses to round things off and keep yourself protected from the summer sun.
Shoes we’d recommend for the nautical look: Hobos Men’s Navy Lace-up Boat Shoes
What better way to complete your nautical look than with a pair of laid-back boat shoes? The contrast tan panel and white stitch detailing define the nautical summer look. The lace-up fastening and durable grip sole support your feet and ensure a secure fit. These shoes are the perfect accessory for those summer parties and holidays.
Check out our best beach shoes.
10. The minimalist look
When the weather is hot, you want to dress as coolly as possible. A lightweight slip dress is the perfect way to do just that. Choose a light floral pattern to really tap into those summer vibes and pair with a straw sunhat to add a laid-back element that will contrast with the classic lines of your dress.
Shoes we’d recommend for the minimalist look: Skechers Sport Court 92 Women’s Lace Up Trainer
Pairing trainers with a floral summer dress may seem odd but trust us – it’s all the rage with the biggest celebs. These trainer shoes are perfect for everyday wear for a casual and minimalist summer look. The shoes embrace a white colour with a patent finish, complimented by subtle brand detailing. These lace-up shoes provide all the support you need, with thanks to memory foam insoles.
Enjoy your summer for less with these top 10 tips for achieving a great look for a cheap price.
