As temperatures spike up this season, so has the social media phenomenon perpetuated by It girls all over the world—also known as Hot Girl Summer. A state of mind that’s dedicated to the hotter and humid months of vivacious living through parties, liberating adventures and of course—the hottest fits. Spy the ever-evolving Dua Lipa, Bella Hadid and Emma Chamberlain as perfect exhibits.
Coupled with pop culture references such as Paris Hilton’s ‘That’s hot’ phrase and the resurgence of Y2k, new meaning has been injected into the viral phenomenon. Over time, the buzzword has become a synonym for self-empowerment and confidence—so much so that TikTokers are boldly staking it to be the new mood of 2022. Customarily comprising short hemlines, bared midriffs and brightly-coloured tube tops, Hot Girl Summer dressing tends to veer into risqué territory, as seen with salacious mirror selfies and vacation snapshots from trendsetters and celebrities alike.
However from a conservative standpoint, where does the modest dresser fit in this narrative? With summer trends in mind, Vogue Singapore rounds up a couple of fashion savants, who have embodied the cult aesthetic in their own way. From longer hemlines to higher necklines, we present you the balmy weather-appropriate fashion inspo you need—and to indeed prove that Hot Girl Summer can be for everyone.
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Don’t think twice with a co-ord
Co-ords or matching sets have a great reputation for making everyday wear easy. Elevate your ensemble with a gradient-toned outfit and pair it with a slouchy, basket bag to keep your outfit hands-free and comfortable.
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Embrace bright colours
Pay homage to Mother Nature’s beaming glow with a verdant-hued cardigan, alongside baggy denim jeans and kitten heels for a semi-casual look.
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Adopt silk dresses
Boiling temperatures to humid climates are just part and parcel of living in a tropical city. To keep cool, opt for loose, silk dresses that are sheer and elegant. While you’re at it, rock a tonal look with a matching scarf to get the mane out of the way.
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Incorporate crochet
Crochet is tricky for the modest wearer because of the porous fabric. A quick fix? Cover up with a white or nude camisole underneath to feel comfortable and confident.
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Slip into denim overalls
The denim dungaree is a favourite for many reasons. From deep pockets to baggy, boyfriend cuts, it is a fashion savant’s essential for sartorial experimentation. For one, wear it as an off-the-shoulder to reveal a cheeky slogan tee on the inside.
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Go for bohemian
Billowing, bohemian dresses are some of the most forgiving silhouettes one can find. A bonus tip? An embroidered garment with puffed sleeves and lattice trimming can grant one much-needed ventilation.
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Vest up
The vest has waxed and waned across fashion’s cyclical nature. But despite that, they make great layering pieces for work and play. Pair it with leather jorts to keep the overall ensemble casual and current, while exuding soft-punk flair with a skinny tie.
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Channel a beachside babe
It’s an assortment of elevated staples in this one. Think: patterned button-down shirts, lime-green trousers, a plaid carry-on, and a charming bucket hat for the many boardwalks to come.
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Take on maxi, flowy silhouettes
An essential for the modest wearer, an A-line maxi skirt is arguably the most flattering and fashion-forward silhouette for most figures. For a more dramatic look, slip into a pair of ankle boots.
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Don’t be afraid to mix it up
While we appreciate any form of salvation from the heat, air-conditioning in the office and malls can be brutal. As such, layer your favourite strapless summer dress with an oversized pullover for a relaxed fit.
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Work the boyfriend look
Simplicity speaks volumes. Leave it to the failsafe combination of classic boyfriend jeans, an oversized button-down and a white T-shirt to stay comfortable and chic.
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Choose pastels
A look reminiscent of popsicles, a candy-coloured T-shirt and pants pairing might just be the best outfit to cool off and release some summer dopamine. Keep your silhouette loose with a tongue-in-cheek graphic T-shirt and pastel paperbag pants. For a finishing touch, wrap a preppy plaid cardigan over the shoulder and slip on a fresh pair of Birkenstocks.
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Weave in smart layering
Since Audrey Hepburn appeared in Breakfast At Tiffany, the long black dress—or LBD—has been an essential staple in every woman’s wardrobe. Dress it down by layering the go-to over a white collared shirt. Then, inject a touch of whimsy with an abstract scarf and jelly loafers for a modern take on the classic silhouette.
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Let it loose
For the last-minute soirées, opting for a Parisian-chic outfit might be your best bet. Channel a casual-cool nonchalance with an untucked button-down shirt. Then, throw on a pair of white slacks—with drawstrings intentionally untied—to keep the ensemble effortless.
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Don on graphic prints
The hotter, bustling months are all about flaunting the best colours and prints, and a graphic-patterned bodycon might do just the trick. For more coverage, layer with a sleeveless turtleneck inside in case the chest feels too bare.
