What are you supposed to wear when it's pouring rain, but the middle of summer—aka hot and humid? To stay dry without weighing yourself down with gear, you'll want to ditch your heavy-duty galoshes and full-weight rain jacket for breezier pieces. We've got just what you need—from light-as-air scarves to Chelsea booties (waterproof, of course), these cute rainy day outfit ideas are practical too, making them the solution to your dreaded rainy summer day fashion conundrum.
01of 15
Everlane The ReNew Anorak
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/renew-anorak-summer-rainy-day-clothes-b6c535e3be9b444f8787bf4821d67394.jpg "15 Summer Rainy Day Outfit Ideas That'll Keep You Cool and Dry (1)")
This minimalist anorak is a serious big-girl coat (without the heaviness—or price tag). It's lightweight and mid-length for maximum coverage, and looks so sleek and professional. Bonus: It's made from 100% recycled materials—pulled from 14 plastic water bottles.
Price at time of publish: $128; everlane.com.
02of 15
Anthropologie Watercolor Lilies Scarf
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/watercolor-lilies-scarf-c1263ec38e3e4983be74bf04706740e4.jpg "15 Summer Rainy Day Outfit Ideas That'll Keep You Cool and Dry (2)")
You never know when you'll need to shield your neck from wind and rain—even if it's 80 degrees with 80 percent humidity. Plus, it'll save you if the AC is blasting wherever you're headed, making it the perfect accessory for your cute rainy day outfits
Price at time of publish: $128; anthropologie.com.
03of 15
Athleta Rincon Dress
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/athleta-rincon-dress-024279388c404b3d80ba15499132266b.jpg "15 Summer Rainy Day Outfit Ideas That'll Keep You Cool and Dry (3)")
When you're looking for good rainy day outfits, think quick-drying—and performance fabrics from your favorite atheleisure stores are often made to make moisture disappear. Top this cute dress with a jacket and you're good to go.
Price at time of publish: $98, athleta.com
04of 15
Asgard Waterproof Chelsea Boots
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/asgard-rain-boots-31f0ffe6d92a4d528c7b60250bee3ef4.jpg "15 Summer Rainy Day Outfit Ideas That'll Keep You Cool and Dry (4)")
Remember those tall, thick wellies you wore all winter? Replace them with short waterproof Chelsea boots or calf-high rain boots to free your legs while protecting your summer pedicure and strappy sandals (keep those in your bag!). Trust us, the shorter the boot, the less you'll hate walking around in summer rain.
Price at time of publish: From $33; amazon.com.
05of 15
Free People Festival Raincoat
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/FreePeople_Festival_Raincoat-04cfc7fa220547d5b2aafd161eb31d4a.jpg "15 Summer Rainy Day Outfit Ideas That'll Keep You Cool and Dry (5)")
Who says rain gear has to be boring? Bring some sunshine to any dreary, steamy day with a super-lightweight, slightly translucent slicker all your friends will want to steal. Also available in blue.
Price at time of publish: $128; freepeople.com.
06of 15
Boden Pintuck Detail Midi Dress
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/boden-midi-linen-dress-0b697a2b04c1423aa9707f4e8abe6ef1.jpg "15 Summer Rainy Day Outfit Ideas That'll Keep You Cool and Dry (6)")
When it's too hot and sticky to even consider pants, a flowy dress or skirt is the right option. Stay as cool as possible with a sleeveless or short-sleeved dress made of lighter fabrics (cotton or linen) that doesn't fall too far below the knee. Throw a lightweight raincoat on over it and you'll be ready to go.
While this dress also comes in black or white, this bold gold hue adds a little sunshine to a dreary day.
Price at time of publish: $180; bodenusa.com
07of 15
Totes Bubble Umbrella
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/totes-bubble-umbrella-d6821371570940b58b621c5ff6b8dd81.jpg "15 Summer Rainy Day Outfit Ideas That'll Keep You Cool and Dry (7)")
This bubble umbrella's magic is manifold: 360-degree coverage from a large brim, plus easy visibility while you stay dry. It's also incredibly cute (and photogenic).
Price at time of publish: $29; totes.com.
The 10 Best Umbrellas of 2024
08of 15
Blondo Brielle Waterproof Shoes
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/blondo-waterproof-flats-1d2db883338541ca914f045f2bdf540d.jpg "15 Summer Rainy Day Outfit Ideas That'll Keep You Cool and Dry (8)")
If you're not a boot person (we get it, even ankle rain boots can be clunky), get yourself an adorable pair of waterproof flats you can easily commute in or wear all day running errands.
To buy: $99; zappos.com
09of 15
Madewell Kickout Crop Jeans
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/madewell-kickout-crop-jeans-27a0d020e9c74d97be559ce3463d15b7.jpg "15 Summer Rainy Day Outfit Ideas That'll Keep You Cool and Dry (9)")
A big summer rainy day don't: long hems. A pair of jeans cropped at or below the ankle will be a life-saver on wet days—if it's not too hot to wear long pants, that is.
Price at time of publish: $138; madewell.com.
10of 15
Allbirds Flyer Mizzles
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/allbirds-wool-mizzle-flyers-2a07dffc2c78416785b1f1eb9118f8ee.jpg "15 Summer Rainy Day Outfit Ideas That'll Keep You Cool and Dry (10)")
For muggy days when you're not sure if it's actually going to rain—and you don't feel like wearing rain boots for no reason—slip on these water-resistant sneakers instead. (Don't worry about the wool material—these sneakers are still remarkably cool.)
Price at time of publish: $154; allbirds.com
How to Create a Seasonal Closet to Streamline Your Clothing Storage
11of 15
Quince Revive Nylon Large Tote
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/quince-revive-nylon-large-tote-4fcd8ca65e6249819e5d6e4f1b2669c8.jpg "15 Summer Rainy Day Outfit Ideas That'll Keep You Cool and Dry (11)")
A water-resistant bag is a must on rainy days—both to avoid damaging your bag and the contents inside it. This pretty blue tote is water resistant and roomy enough to hold all your goods.
Price at time of publish: $90; quince.com
12of 15
Uniqlo UV Protection Printed Pocketable Parka
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/uniqlo-uv-protection-parka-d451d7795fea42e08741cce993a352c7.jpg "15 Summer Rainy Day Outfit Ideas That'll Keep You Cool and Dry (12)")
This pretty jacket protects you rain or shine, with a water-protectant coating and UV protection woven in.
Price at time of publish: $50: uniqlo.com
13of 15
Rains Bucket Hat
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/rains-bucket-hat-6866925e7a594b97a132ea1ca15edc60.jpg "15 Summer Rainy Day Outfit Ideas That'll Keep You Cool and Dry (13)")
Keep your hair and face under wraps with a cute bucket hat—Rains signature polyurethane fabric makes it waterproof.
Price at time of publish: $34, rains.com
14of 15
Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/uniqlo-cross-body-bag-05710bbb27ed4433a4aa52546981c996.jpg "15 Summer Rainy Day Outfit Ideas That'll Keep You Cool and Dry (14)")
If you're traveling light on a rainy day, a smaller crossbody bag—especially one that's water resistant—should be your go-to. This one comes in a rainbow of colors, so you can pick one that perfectly tops off your cute rainy day outfit.
Price at time of publish: $20; uniqlo.com
35 Fun Things to Do on a Rainy Day at Home
15of 15
Universal Standard Promenade Linen Jumpsuit
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/universal-standard-linen-jumpsuit-3fde1a008b8644c89214c77dbca6de21.jpg "15 Summer Rainy Day Outfit Ideas That'll Keep You Cool and Dry (15)")
When you're looking for cute rainy day outfits, think simple one-piece ensembles that'll brighten your day. Universal Standard's flowy stretch linen jumpsuit will keep you cool on a sticky summer day.
Price at time of publish: $168; universalstandard.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What fabrics work best for rainy days?
If you want to stay dry and comfortable, look for water-resistant clothes, especially performance fabrics that can help wick away moisture to keep you cool and comfy. As far as natural fabrics, cotton and linen are very cooling, but can hold on to moisture a bit. Nylon isn't breathable, but it will help keep you dry, so it makes a great outer layer.
What is the best color to wear on a rainy day?
White may be a risky choice for a rainy day, as it can become see-through if wet. Black, dark gray, and navy can help hide dampness—but on a gray and dreary day, sometimes a pop of bright color is the best choice for cute rainy day outfits.
What strategies should I use to create the perfect summer rainy day outfit?
You'll definitely want to keep hemlines short—dragging wide legged pants or maxi skirts can easily get wet and be annoying to continue wearing.
Make sure the outfit keeps you undercover even if it gets wet. (No one wants to be in an impromptu wet t-shirt contest!)
Include a good water-resistant outer layer, that you can easily shed when the weather improves or you head indoors.
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
As an expert in fashion and clothing, I can provide information on the concepts mentioned in this article. Let's discuss each concept in detail:
Waterproof Materials: The article mentions several items of clothing and accessories that are made from waterproof or water-resistant materials. These materials are designed to repel water and keep you dry during rainy weather. Some examples include the Everlane The ReNew Anorak, which is made from 100% recycled materials, and the Asgard Waterproof Chelsea Boots. These items are not only functional but also stylish, allowing you to stay dry without sacrificing fashion.
Quick-Drying Fabrics: When it comes to rainy day outfits, it's important to choose clothing made from quick-drying fabrics. Performance fabrics, like those used in athleisure stores such as Athleta, are designed to wick away moisture and dry quickly. The Athleta Rincon Dress mentioned in the article is an example of a quick-drying dress that is suitable for rainy days.
Lightweight Outerwear: Instead of heavy rain jackets, the article suggests opting for lightweight outerwear options. These include the Free People Festival Raincoat, which is super-lightweight and slightly translucent, adding a touch of style to your rainy day outfit. Another option is the Uniqlo UV Protection Printed Pocketable Parka, which provides both rain protection and UV protection.
Footwear: The article recommends replacing heavy-duty galoshes with lighter options, such as waterproof Chelsea boots or calf-high rain boots. These shorter boots allow for more freedom of movement and are especially suitable for summer rain. The Blondo Brielle Waterproof Shoes mentioned in the article are a stylish alternative to traditional rain boots.
Accessories: Accessories play an important role in creating cute rainy day outfits. The article suggests wearing a bubble umbrella, which provides 360-degree coverage and easy visibility while keeping you dry. Additionally, a water-resistant bag, like the Quince Revive Nylon Large Tote, is essential to protect your belongings from the rain.
Color Choices: While black, dark gray, and navy can help hide dampness, the article suggests adding a pop of bright color to your outfit on a gray and dreary day. This can help brighten your mood and create a more cheerful look.
Proper Hemlines: It's important to consider the length of your clothing on rainy days. Opting for shorter hemlines, such as cropped jeans or dresses that don't fall too far below the knee, can help prevent your clothes from getting wet and uncomfortable.
Overall, the key strategies for creating the perfect summer rainy day outfit include choosing waterproof or water-resistant materials, opting for quick-drying fabrics, wearing lightweight outerwear, selecting appropriate footwear, accessorizing with umbrellas and water-resistant bags, considering color choices, and paying attention to hemlines. By following these guidelines, you can stay stylish and comfortable even on rainy summer days.
