High-Temp Fashion: How to Look Chic in the Heat

Here's how to look good this summer without breaking a sweat: Choose light, layered clothes and pick up six key pieces for every summer wardrobe.

In a scene straight out of Havana's heyday, the party was a swirling sea of sun-kissed guests clad in a cloud of sorbet shades, tropical bursts, and endless ikats. A jet-set crowd hailing from everywhere from São Paulo to Sudan descended on the balmy isle of the Dominican Republic to celebrate the nuptials of Harper's Bazaar's accessories director, Ana Maria Pimentel. The festivities proved to be the perfect mix of fun, fantasy, and, well, fashion...haute-island-style, that is.

With temperatures inching toward 100 degrees, the trick to looking good for this cool crowd came in the form of citrus tribal-inspired frocks by Dries Van Noten, breathable bubble dresses from Calvin Klein, and a bevy of other bold creations. Of course, the beaming bride scored the best-dressed award in an opulent silk organza Oscar de la Renta gown.

The bunch broke out their finery for the reception. "I wore an emerald-green silk Electric Feathers jumpsuit with a thin belt and two gold bangles from my own collection," explains guest Phoebe Stephens, codesigner of the jewelry line Anndra Neen. Her approach was to wear light fabrics complemented with striking pieces of jewelry and major stiletto sandals. In her Crayola-colored number, "I was able to dance the night away" — without looking like a sweaty mess.

Stephens's quandary is one that fashion lovers have faced for years: What's the best way to look fresh and modern in warm weather when all you really want to do is wear as little as possible? For the summer ahead, be it at the beach, the city, or another far-flung locale, there are many options for keeping cool and looking chic with a new set of silhouettes and a whole new way to wear them.

Summer dressing summed up: Layering and lightness are a must — day or night. The styling trick to looking au courant — everywhere from the beach to the office — is layering. While we have come to rely on the ubiquitous cardigan over the past several seasons (a look that isn't going anywhere, so hold on to those filmy knits), the way forward is outerwear. There are two notable key pieces in this category. Summer leather hit a high mark with the abbreviated motorcycle jacket, ideal for chilly evenings. Another reinterpreted classic is the utility jacket, which can be thrown over a long floral dress or a slouchy pant.

KEY PIECES FOR SUMMER

• SHORTS
• UTILITY JACKET
• ABBREVIATED PANTS
• THE PERFECT TEE
• SUMMER CLOGS
• NEUTRAL-COLORED HANDBAG