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28 Breathable Pieces Of Clothing That Won’t Cling To Your Body This Summer

I’ve got beef with clingy clothing.

Posted 4 hours ago

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by Melanie Aman BuzzFeed BuzzFeed Staff

As a deputy editorial director on the BuzzFeed Shopping team with almost a decade in the lifestyle and service journalism sphere, I use my shopping editor eye to find and vet products across a variety of categories, including lifestyle, home, beauty, fashion, pets, cleaning, travel, aging, and more.

If your current summer wardrobe feels less like "effortless fashion" and more like a sticky, suffocating trap, you are definitely not alone. Finding breathable pieces of clothing that won't cling to your body when the humidity hits is an absolute game-changer. Luckily, we found a ton of lightweight travel outfits, breezy vacation wear, and sweat-free daily staples that may help you beat the heat. Reviewers swear by these comfy linen sets, quick-dry running shorts, and flowy maxi skirts for maximum cooling, so check out the best styles ahead!

Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's.

1. A two-piece linen set that won't cling to your body and collect heat while you're walking five miles a day on your European vacation. Wear it casually with sandals or sneakers, or dress it up with jewelry and some fancy heels.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

The brand says that it may shrink in the wash, so consider that when choosing your size. Also note that the pants may hit above the ankle if you're on the taller side. For reference, the reviewer on the right is 5'9".

Promising review: "This two-piece white outfit fits great and feels so fresh and breathable—perfect for hot summer days. It’s not see-through because it has an extra inner layer, which makes it even better. The top is not too cropped— just the right length. The fabric is light, comfortable, and it looks effortlessly stylish. I’ve gotten compliments every time I wear it!" —Adriana

Get it from Amazon for $49.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and 17 colors).

2. A pair of high-waisted quick-dry running shorts so you can focus on setting a new PR instead of worrying about wedgies, chafing, and swampy shorts.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

BuzzFeed writer Emma Lord loves hers:

"I recently bought these shorts because I'm in love with the similar ones you can get at Old Navy, but they sell out so fast. Turns out I love these even more! I love the huge range of colors you can buy these in (at other places, they often sell out too quickly to get to pick!), love that the high-waistedness of them meets about where my running crop top ends, so I don't have to get bonkers with sunscreen, and love love loooooove the side pocket for my keys or face mask. I only have them in purple so far, but I'm excited to try other colors!"

Promising review: "True to size, really breathable, and incredible for working out or lounging around at home. I love these shorts and bought them in two different colors, and I will definitely be buying more. The elastic in the waistband holds up through multiple washes as well. Do recommend air drying versus using the dryer. They dry very quickly if you just hang dry after washing." —Hayley Howell

Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in sizes XS–3XL and 20 colors). 

3. A V-neck backless dress if you like to be the center of attention but don't want said attention to come at the cost of your comfort. This little lace number is super soft on the skin and has a cute bow-tie design that'll earn you "oohs" and "ahhs" from every angle.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I just got this dress in the mail, and I love it! It’s super breathable and lightweight! Will be perfect for my summer bridal shower!" —Amanda P.

Get it from Amazon for $26.59+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 31 colors).

4. A must-have crochet button-down for all your upcoming tropical vacations. Wear it to the hotel breakfast cafe, the beach, or for a day of exploring, and bask in the warmth of everyone's compliments, without a heavy fabric that'll make you sweat.

Eloquii

Get it from Eloquii for $29 (available in sizes 14–28 — and check out the matching shorts).

5. A pair of lightweight slitted trousers to air things out so your pant legs don't turn into a swamp.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "If you are on the fence about buying these pants...just do it! You won't regret it. They are SO comfortable, and the slits on the sides make them breathable to be able to wear in the summer. I bought the white, and they are NOT see-through. You can dress them up or down." —lnarthur

Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in sizes S–4XL Plus and in 18 colors/prints). 

6. A sleeveless jumpsuit in a striking geometric print, because it's head-to-toe chicness in a breathable and comfortable cotton fabric. It has a lovely V neckline and a zipper in the front so you can easily slip in and out of it.

Rujuta Sheth

Rujuta Sheth is a woman-owned small business that is committed to sustainability through its use of handcrafted textiles and natural fibers. They produce small batches to prevent waste, and scraps and unused textiles are repurposed into accessories and other products.

Get it from Rujuta Sheth for $225 (available in sizes XS–4XL).

7. A light and breezy cardigan that'll keep you covered (esp. useful if you're trying to avoid sunburned shoulders!) without making you feel like a potato baking in tin foil.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "The fit is loose and flowy. The material is great for those warm days. Overall, a very worthwhile purchase!" —Katie P

Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in sizes XS–5XL and a variety of colors/prints).

8. A matching two-piece set so getting dressed on vacation is so easy peasy.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I just got this on a whim because it was on sale, but I have to say I’m pleasantly surprised. This particular two-piece set is more of a linen material, but it is very high-quality. I got a lot of compliments. It’s breathable and very comfortable. I’m really contemplating other colors." —Lucy McNoodle

Get it from Amazon for $32.90+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 25 colors).

9. A pair of baggy overalls if your ideal summer wardrobe can best be defined as "art teacher chic." Reviewers swear the loose, flowy, and breathable cotton linen fabric is incredibly comfy and lightweight on the skin.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I have gotten so many compliments on these overalls! I was looking for something comfortable and light enough to wear during the summer since I'm not a big fan of shorts. I'm pretty petite, and it fits well and is just baggy enough. I love them so much I ordered another pair in blue!" —Cynthia Cahalen

Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in sizes S–3XL and six colors).

10. A pair of flowy shorts for all the twirls and skips that this *b-e-a-utiful* weather makes you want to do. These shorts *look* like a skirt, but don't worry, you won't end up accidentally flashing anyone.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I absolutely love this flowy skirt with built-in shorts! It’s the perfect combination of style and practicality. The lightweight, breathable fabric makes it super comfortable for warm days, and the flowy design adds a feminine touch. I wore it on a cruise and didn’t have to worry about the wind at all — thanks to the built-in shorts, I felt covered and confident the whole time. Whether I’m running errands, going for a walk, or just lounging around, this skirt keeps me looking cute and feeling comfortable. Definitely a new wardrobe favorite!" —Nicole Patterson

Get them from Amazon for $30.08+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 18 colors).

11. A lace V-neck tank top to act as the cherry on top of your "this looks like I'm trying, but I'm really not" first date outfit.

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "This is a super comfortable top. The material is very breathable for summer and can be dressed up or casual. The fit is true to size. The material is a little stiff." —Jasmine

Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in sizes XS–4XL and 20 colors).

12. A backless maxi dress, because it would truly be a shame to deprive your Instagram followers of a few photos of you in this stunning number. The open back allows for maximum cooling, so you don't look like a hot, sweaty mess in every vacay photo.

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "This dress was so pretty I got compliments the entire time. I wore it to a destination wedding in Jamaica. It was long and flowy but was very breathable, and I stayed cool. I definitely recommend purchasing this dress. You won’t be disappointed!" —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $36.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and 30 colors).

13. A breezy chiffon halter top that'll probably get you stopped in the street by people dying to know where you got it. 

Nordstrom

Promising review:

Get it from Nordstrom for $41.60 (available in sizes XS–XL).

14. Some Levi's baggy dad shorts so your legs can *breathe*. The best part? Extra spacious pockets!

Levi's

Reviewers say these shorts can run large, so consider sizing down.

Get it from Levi's for $75 (available in sizes 23–33 and three colors).

15. A pair of relaxed denim with a cute eyelet hem if your personal style leans toward pants over skirts, but you don't want your legs to suffocate in the heat.

Lane Bryant

Get it from Lane Bryant for $49.97 (available in sizes 12–40 regular, 16–28 petite, 14–28 short, and 12–28 long).

16. A flight attendant-approved off-shoulder jumpsuit comfy enough for traveling (and snoozing) yet stylish enough for wearing out multiple times during your trip — even if your trip is just from your bed to the couch.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I'm not one to wear or even buy a jumpsuit, but I thought, what the hell, let's do this. Once it arrived, I opened up the packaging and thought...oh man, what did I buy? It was thin and weighed practically nothing. I still tried it on, and to my surprise, I absolutely loved it! I love how loose-fitting it is and how thin and breathable it is. It literally feels like wearing pajamas, but it still looks nice. For first-timers like myself, I highly recommend this jumpsuit." —Ashley Zaugg

Get it from Amazon for $24.69+ (available in sizes S–3XL and 32 colors/patterns). 

17. A sleeveless tennis sundress with built-in shorts to keep you cool and feeling secure when you know you're going to be chasing kids around all day.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Psst — reviewers warn to size down! 

Promising review: "I absolutely love this romper dress!! It is so incredibly comfortable and cute! I have gotten so many compliments when I wear it out! You can dress it up or wear it casually and be active in it! It has large/deep pockets that are great for keys/small wallets. There is a full-body romper with shorts that is fitted, but not too tight or restricting. I would buy this again and again!!" —Hannah Montag

Get it from Amazon for $19.88+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 23 colors). 

18. A cotton linen maxi dress because those tropical vacation pics need an outfit as stunning as the coastal vista behind you.

Tuckernuck

Promising review: "The perfect dress if you have a smaller frame. I am 5'2", and this is a true maxi on me. Print and fabric are so lightweight and perfect for hot summer days ahead." —Jenna

Get it from Tuckernuck for $298 (available in sizes XXS–XXXL).

19. A very '90s boho maxi skirt that'll spend almost no time in your drawer because you love wearing it so much. Reviewers rave that it's not clingy, love the pockets, and say that the fabric doesn't a wrinkle — a huge plus if you're looking for easy travel outfits.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Short reviewers mention they love wearing this skirt with heels, and that the drawstring waist makes it easier to wear the skirt higher and hold it there without hemming. 

Promising review: "Love, love, love this skirt! A long, white, boho skirt paired with a tank top is my idea of the perfect summer outfit. What makes this maxi skirt extra special is that it has pockets! Most skirts in this three-tiered style, which I have worn for decades, do not. Having well-placed and roomy pockets makes this skirt next level! The fit is great, it falls beautifully from my waist to my feet. The waist is elastic and also has a drawstring, which I typically remove for a cleaner look." —Kimber PDX

Get it from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and seven colors/prints). 

20. A sleeveless turtleneck so you can go sans sleeves at the office without looking sloppy. It's also pretty handy for not freezing to death on those days that the AC is blasting in the office (although that's pretty much every day).

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I have this top in the beige and the olive green color, and I love it! I’ve worn it to job interviews, work functions, church, and so many other things. I love it! Super versatile and well made!" —Rebecca Hendrix

Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and 25 colors).

21. An asymmetrical hem midi skirt if, truthfully, you want to make a statement with your outfit while exerting as little brain power as possible. This'll glam up any plaine white tee without adding extra layers that'll just make you hot and sweaty.

BloomChic

Promising review: "Great flow, lightweight material. Perfect for summer months." —BloomChic Customer

Get it from BloomChic for $20.61+ (available in sizes M–6X and five colors).

22. A semi-sheer shrug for channeling your inner '90s baby (IYKYK!!) while also adding a smidge of warmth on a chilly day. And several reviewers say it's handy to have when you're traveling!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Very cute and comfy and super lightweight! It can be worn for any weather, and it doesn’t make you HOT wohooo. Have it in two different colors now, both pink and yellow." —Gianna Acosta

Get it from Amazon for $23.95+ (available in one size [fits sizes 2–12] and 39 colors; this plus-size option is similar but has a tie-front design).

23. A classic oversized T-shirt with rolled sleeves to complement any pair of pants or shirts in your wardrobe — everything goes with a solid tee. And this one's nice and flowy, perfect for catching a breeze.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I love these shirts! I bought several colors, and they have not faded or shrunk when washing. They are so soft and comfortable. The material feels lightweight, and I have been wearing them all summer. They are longer than I expected, so ordering a smaller size may help. They are stretchy and breathable, and there is a variety of color options. I plan to order more soon." —Kindle Customer

Get it from Amazon for $7.99+ (available in sizes S–3XL and 19 colors).

24. A pair of tapered drawstring joggers because wide leg linen pants just aren't your thing...but joggers? Now that's a silhouette you can get behind.

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "These are so comfy and great for summer. Breathable, thin, but quality material. I am getting more! They don’t wrinkle, great for travel. These have been my go-to pants all summer! Love, love, love." —Christine

Get it from Amazon for $39.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and in eight colors).

25. A pair of gingham boxer-style shorts that are just so effortlessly cute while feeling as comfy as pajamas.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "So comfy and they look just like the photo! The quality is great, they aren't see through, and I love the bright color! They fit true to size. They are definitely a great value for the money." —Hope

Get it from Amazon for$9.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 25 styles). 

26. A pleated polka-dot midi skirt with a comfy elastic waistband and pockets (!) so you're covered without feeling weighed down.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Fabric was breathable, comfortable, and true to size. I paired it with different tops, and it works out great." —Tena

Get it from Amazon for $25.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 16 colors).

27. A short-sleeve T-shirt dress with a cute waist-cinching bow if you love a little figure-hugging number but don't want the suffocating embrace of a heavy fabric.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Perfect dress for any occasion!! It is very stretchy, so you’re not constricted when trying to sit or move around! It is a very light material, so it’s very breathable in hot weather, and it’s not see-through! And it has pockets!! I will be ordering more in different colors!!" —Liv

Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and 21 colors/prints).

28. A gingham print maxi dress for the next summery picnic you're invited to. C'mon, this is *perfect*!

BloomChic

Get it from BloomChic for $42.90 (available in sizes M–6X).

You now that your summer wardrobe is complete:

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Deedle-Dee Productions

Still looking for the perfect wardrobe update for *y-o-u*? Try these:

* Plus-Size Reviewers Swear By These 27 Summer Fashion Pieces Under $100

* Don’t Have Time To Shop For Summer Clothing? Voila! We Found 31 Pieces For You

* Loungewear Pieces You Wouldn’t Mind Having To Answer The Door In

* Light Layers To Keep With You During AC Season

* Pieces That’ll Take You From The Office, To Happy Hour, To A First Date And Look Good Through It All

Plus, basics, shorts, tops, accessories, swimsuits, and finds from Boden, Free People, Gap, J.Crew, Loft, Madewell, Old Navy, Torrid, and Walmart. 

Why Trust BuzzFeed Shopping?

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The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.

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