Outfits for a Summer Parade

There are multiple options when it comes to dressing for a summer parade. We’ve put together a list of outfits that you can adapt to your fashion preferences and lifestyle:

A Cotton Dress

Women’s dresses are a versatile warm-weather staple. They come in mid-length and long styles, and they’re available in solid colors and prints. For summer, a cotton dress checks all the boxes—they’re comfy, stylish, and machine-washable.

There are fit-and-flare dresses that enhance every figure. They’re crafted from a soft, smooth cotton jersey and have a close fit around the bodice and a flared skirt for a flouncy look that can be dressed up or down. A midi dress in this style is good for a parade because it’s lightweight and airy for cool comfort, yet still stylish.

A sleeveless tiered maxi dress is another dress style that you can wear to a summer parade. This type of dress can be found in an array of fun summer prints, from color-block designs to classic floral motifs. If you think you might get chilly during an evening parade, pack a lightweight cardigan in your tote bag or tie one around your waist.

Footwear is important when choosing a parade outfit. You don’t have to go dressy with high heels; instead, slip into a pair of flats with plenty of cushioning in the footbed. There are ballet flats that conform to your foot’s shape and walking sandals made for hours on your feet. Both styles look casually elegant with mid-length and maxi dresses and skirts.

A Midi Skirt with a Blouse

Speaking of women’s skirts, you can wear one to a summer parade. Skirts and tops provide more fashion versatility than dresses because you can mix and match to create many looks. Slip into a flowy jersey skirt that falls to the knees and top it with a women’s white blouse made from a lightweight material or a short-sleeve button-down shirt. You can also wear tees and tanks with skirts if you prefer a look that combines casual and dressy elements.

Elastic-waist skirts are a great choice for summer parades because even if you visit the food trucks, your skirt won’t feel too tight. Skirts with elastic in the waistband move with you, and if you can find an athletic skirt with a drawstring that’s even better when it comes to custom comfort. Skorts are another comfy choice for outdoor events, as they provide more modesty but still have the look of a skirt.

Shorts and a Tank

Go casual with women’s shorts and a tank top. Shorts come in many styles, including khaki and denim options with a button-fly and 5-pocket jean styling—and those with stretchy elastic waists and comfortable fabrics. Women’s Bermuda shorts have a resort-inspired look and reach the knees for a modest look, while board shorts can go from the parade to the beach without a change of clothing required.

Women’s cotton tank tops go with any shorts style. Wear a classic white tank with khaki shorts for an on-trend neutral look. Or go for white-and-black or another contrasting color combo when pairing tank tops and shorts. Even a printed top with solid-color shorts is a fashion-forward option for parade day. Finish the look with canvas sneakers or walking sandals.

Capri Pants and a T-Shirt

Cropped pants are always in style for summer, whether you’re going to a parade, garden party or just running errands around town. Capri pants fit closer to the body than wide-leg cropped pants, but they’re just as stylish. They come in soft, stretchy fabrics for all-day comfort and reach past the knees for a retro-inspired look that goes perfectly with wedge sandals, canvas sneakers, or loafers.

When choosing a T-shirt for summer events, you’ll likely want a whole collection. Women’s T-shirts in a neutral color like white, black, or gray go with virtually everything in your closet, but you might want to change things up sometimes with a vibrantly-hued T-shirt or one with a graphic print. For maximum wear and a super-soft feel, look for tees made from Supima cotton. This American-grown cotton species has a long-staple fiber that makes it even sturdier and more colorfast than regular cotton.

Yoga Pants and an Active Top

If you’re the type that loves wearing athletic outfits even when you’re not at the gym, reach for a pair of women’s yoga pants and a top made from polyester and spandex. Whether you go for a tee or a tank is up to you— just make sure to choose one made from a breathable, moisture-wicking fabric with ample stretch.

Yoga pants come in many styles. There are cropped yoga pants and those that reach the ankles. You’ll find pairs with wide, flat waistbands for comfort and a streamlined look, and many pairs of yoga pants have discreet pockets for carrying small essentials. Unlike workout leggings, traditional yoga pants have a gentle flare towards the bottom for freedom of movement and a universally flattering effect.