When it’s summer in the city, it can sometimes (usually) get unbearably hot. This is true for Toronto, and I’m sure a ton of other cities across the globe. Take today for example: it says the temperature is 28 degrees celsius, but with the humidity factored in, it’s more like 38 to 40. It’s one of the reasons I cut my hair shorter. And a summer full of heat warnings often makes it tough to find something to wear that doesn’t cause you to melt into a puddle. My daily summer struggle is choosing clothes that are both cute and weather-appropriate, which can often be a challenge in heat such as ours. Over the last few months, however, I have managed to pick up a few tips, tricks, and staple finds that I believe will help you (and me) make it through til fall.

THE BOILER SUIT

I’ve been living in this boiler suit that I copped from Winners not too long ago. If I’m being honest, they’ve been really impressing me with their jumpsuit game recently and I’m here for it. Jumpsuits have always seemed to be “in”, because they are so unbelievably easy to wear and style, but the boiler suit version of the classic jumpsuit is very on-trend this summer. You’ve probably seen them all over your social media, and you’ve definitely seen them in magazines around the world.

Originally designed for the utilitarian manual labourers, boiler suits are super fashionable and super functional. They come in a variety of different colours and fabrics, but my favourite thus far has been this light cottony military green. The cut is extremely flattering, and they’ve got pockets for days, so definitely be sure to pick one up before summer comes to a close.

HOT TIP: Pair your boiler suit with dressier accessories for a day on the town like I did, or with your favourite sneakers for a casual look that’s perfect for picking up an extra large iced coffee (because it’s just too hot to function).

THE SUMMER SUIT

This summer’s dinner look has been the summer suit. Something light in colour and material, and short on the bottom. Paper bag shorts are usually the bottom half of these sets, and I love them because they are universally flattering. The waist is high enough that it sits just above your natural hip, and they tend to be long enough to satisfy even the most modest of crowds.

Grab your summer suit in a fun print or pattern like this one from h&m (which is unfortunately now sold out) to add some flare to the outfit. The summer suit is also a great look to help you transition from day to night: pair it with your favourite heeled sandals for a night out with the girls, or a flatter version for the office.

HOT TIP: I’ve been totally obsessed with statement earrings this year, I can’t get enough of them. They’re a super easy way to dress up your outfit, or just add something a little extra. You can find them literally everywhere right now, so pick up a few that go with everything or maybe some that will help you stand out from the crowd. The ones I’m wearing are from Winners, whom is again impressing me with their variety of options.

THE FLORAL MAXI

Obviously floral maxi dresses are not necessarily a new trend, but I’m in love nonetheless. This stunning work of art from Ever New is my new obsession and I want to wear it every day. A flowy, breezy maxi dress (with your knixwear thigh savers underneath, duh) is the perfect summer staple. You’ll feel free enough to move around, but still dressed up and put together. There’s really no downside.

Florals are always on-trend (IMO), which makes them my go to print for the warmer months. If you want to go one step further, opt for something with a white base for extra summery vibes. The same goes for the maxi as for the summer suit: throw on your flat sandals if you’re adventuring around the city, or a heeled pair for a nice dinner with your S/O.

HOT TIP: I’ve been on the hunt for shorter white sandals that are office appropriate. These ones from Steve Madden are just high enough to dress up an outfit, but are comfortable enough to be able to walk around in.

What are your go-to outfits to wear in this excessive heat? Leaving the house is such a challenge every morning that I’ll take all the help I can get. Any tips for staying cool? Leave em’ in the comments below!