Simplicity is one of the best parts of summer dressing. Warm weather means there’s less to think about—no layers or complicated styling formulas. What could be easier on a sunny morning than slipping into a one-and-done dress and heading out for the day?
Vogue’s Summer Guide to Styling Dresses and Loafers
The Draped Halter
Toteme scarf-detailed halterneck midi dress
Jump to reviewThe Menswear-Inspired Penny Loafer
G.H.Bass Whitney Weejuns penny loafers
Jump to review
Of course, when an outfit is pared back, accessories are even more important. Sandals and ballet flats may be the obvious companions to summer dresses, but don’t overlook the loafer. More polished than a sandal (especially those of the flip-flop variety), loafers bring an unexpected attitude to dresses—on in Kendall Jenner’s case, an oversized button-up—with their gamine, preppy charm. From classic penny styles to this season’s woven iterations, loafers are a timeless footwear choice; versatile and endlessly wearable throughout much of the year.
Together with dresses, they create an effortlessly cool pairing that suits nearly every style persona—from the sleek minimalist to the spirited tomboy. A striped shift feels right at home with a suede penny loafer, while a printed maxi pairs well with soft ruched leather styles. A simple black leather option is a great match for an oversized shirt worn as a dress, while a deck shoe feels just right with an airy cotton mini.
Recreate—and shop—some of our favorite summer combinations, below.
Toteme
scarf-detailed halterneck midi dress
G.H.Bass
