Bleusalt is back with another fun summer styling post! The art of layering in summer is easy to practice and tough to master. Whether you’re just getting started layering outfits or you layer up every summer, there is always something to learn to keep your summer looks fresh and comfortable. This guide isn’t all about buying new pieces, although we do have to mention some of the great pieces from Bleusalt along the way!
Why Layering Works in Warm Weather
When warm weather hits, many people take layers off. We actually layer clothes up...clothes that keep our skin shaded and cool! This works surprisingly well.
The reason layering works is not because of the layering itself, but because of the materials we’re layering with. The difference between being comfortable in a summer cardigan and, well, not... is the materials your clothing is made of.
How To Layer Summer Outfits
You’ll want to check the weather before you decide how to layer up for the day. It definitely helps to know if you should be thinking about a second or third layer. Sometimes the third layer is just off the table entirely!
Style tip: If you know you’re going to be super active on a particular day, choose pieces that you can take off easily so you aren’t caught in an awkward position just trying to cool off. Zippered polos, cardigans, or other easily swapped layers tend to work best.
Layering Tips For Women
Layering in the summer is less about stacking clothes and more about creating shape and movement without weighing yourself down.
A great base layer like a fitted tank or slim tee lets you build out from there. Instead of heavy cardigans or thick jackets, think about lightweight pieces you can drape, tie, or wear open. A short-sleeved button-up worn unbuttoned over a tee or an eye-catching bralette adds just enough structure, and looks good whether you wear it or tie it at the waist.
You can also play with proportions. Long cardigans over short dresses, or cropped jackets over longer tanks can add visual interest without adding heat. And if you're feeling stuck, sometimes just tying a pullover around your shoulders or layering a sheer top over something fitted is enough to change up the whole look without breaking a sweat.
Layering Tips For Men
Summer layering for men works best when it feels like an outfit that adjusts with you throughout the day. The simplest move is starting with a tank or tee and tossing an open short-sleeved button-up on top. It gives you an extra layer of style without making you overheat. If you want to dress it up just a bit more, a lightweight sweater vest or overshirt can add some shape without the extra bulk.
Long sleeves still have a place in summer if you wear them right. Rolling them to the elbows or pushing them up helps you stay cool while keeping the look a little more polished. And if you’re the kind of guy who likes a third piece, go for something like a camp jacket or relaxed blazer. You don’t have to wear it all day, but it’s nice to have a top layer ready when you step into an overactive AC or want to pull the outfit together for dinner.
Breathable Summer Layering Pieces
Linen shirts and white linen pants are a long-time summer favorite for their lightweight feeling and moisture-wicking abilities. However, linens can also be tough to keep wrinkle-free, which makes them a bit of a hassle.
We love Tencel, or modal, fabric made from beechwood fibers. Not only does this fabric feel incredibly light and breathable, but the fibers are a sustainable source of clothing that requires far less water to produce than traditional fabrics!
Whether you’re wearing Bleusalt’s Tencel blended fabrics or the ones you already have in your summer wardrobe, we thought it would be helpful to look at some of the best layering pieces for summer.
Short Sleeves
T-shirts or short sleeved shirts are lightweight and work as the base layer to so many great looks. Start with something soft and breathable and build your outfit around that. If you’re not sure where to find the most comfortable base, you can’t go wrong with The Perfect Tee LITE by Bleusalt. It is the perfect tee!
Even an oversized shirt with short sleeves feels cool and casual if it’s made from the right material. That extra room gives you more airflow and takes the edge off of those sticky summer days. We love how The Oversized T-Shirt LITE from Bleusalt flatters every body shape and type during the summer, so it had to be included here.
Cardigans
Cardigans are one of the best summer outer layers because they’re usually lightweight enough to let air through while still adding just the right amount of coverage. Think open front styles that drape instead of cling, especially ones made from breathable materials.
They come in handy more often than you’d think. Beach mornings, breezy patios, overly air-conditioned grocery stores. The Oversized Cardigan LITE is a good one to have on standby because the extra lightweight material stays cool even on the hot days. It’s easy to throw on and makes everything else you’re wearing feel a little more put together.
Blazers
Blazers aren’t just for fall. If you find one in a lighter material, they work surprisingly well in summer. The structure stays, but you don’t overheat. It’s a great look for work, for travel, really for whatever summer can throw at you (but maybe not the beach!)
We like them best layered over something super simple. A tank, a tee, whatever’s easy. Try tossing The Big Rock Boyfriend Blazer by Bleusalt over a t-shirt and you’ve got a quick upgrade that still feels comfortable.
Sundress
A simple sundress can become quite a refined look when layered with the right top. You can wear it under a cardigan, layer a short sleeve button-up over it and tie it at the waist, or even pull a lightweight pullover on top to turn it into a skirt.
Our favorite “everyday” summer dress is actually The Smock from Bleusalt because it hits that rare balance. The top is tight and structured enough to layer over, but light enough to breathe. It’s fitted where it should be, but still comfortable when the temperature climbs.
Comfortable Shorts
Our go-to bottoms for the summer are a pair of comfortable shorts that you can dress up or down depending on the day. Look for ones with an elastic waistband or drawstring, because flexibility matters when you’re on the go. Deep pockets never hurt, either.
If you’re looking for something soft, easy, and made to move in, The Women’s Short and The Men’s Cargo Short by Bleusalt check all those boxes. Everyone needs a good pair of comfortable shorts!
Lightweight Joggers
Joggers are kind of a secret weapon when it comes to layering. If you find the right pair, they’ll keep you cool and comfortable without falling into the “sweatpants” trap. Look for natural fibers and a relaxed fit.
We like joggers for travel days, early morning walks, and anything in between. You can layer them with a tee or tank, then add a pullover or soft jacket if the temperature drops. The Women’s Elevated Jogger from Bleusalt is a great option if you want something that works across seasons without having to think about it too much.
Use Summer Pieces For Year-Round Layering!
Summer pieces don’t have to disappear the second temperatures drop. In fact, some of the best layering items in your closet might already be getting the most wear (just not always in summer). A lightweight cardigan can slide right under a heavier coat. A tank top that worked under your summer blazer will do the same under a fall jacket. A good pair of joggers? You’ll probably wear them year-round without even realizing it.
Think about the pieces that already work with other textures, weights, or fits. If they breathe well in summer, chances are they’ll also layer well when the weather cools down. Bleusalt’s pieces are built with this kind of versatility in mind. The same relaxed tee you wore in July? Layer it under something heavier in October. That sundress you lived in? Add tights, boots, and a cardigan, and you're good to go.
You don’t have to overhaul your whole closet every season. You just have to rethink how you’re wearing what you already own. And if you're starting to build out that core wardrobe, looking for pieces that feel as good in August as they do in February is a great place to start.