Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women’s.
27 Free People Pieces To Keep You Cool This Summer
1. An airy cotton-modal tank and shorts set, because the shirt’s bubble hem will be incredibly welcome on days when you can barely stand to have any fabric touch your skin. The flowing shirt and bottom will also allow for increased airflow, so if there’s any kind of breeze available on this hot, sticky day, you’ll get to feel it.
Free People
Promising review: “I was worried this top would be too short as I’m not a midriff show-er:) I was pleasantly surprised that the shorts can be worn higher on the waist, and then the tummy doesn’t show. I love this outfit…so very cute! True to size. Nice material as well. Will be wearing on my vacay to Florida!” —Cyndi_Jo
Price: $78 (available in sizes XS—XL and four colors).
2. A pair of billowy dropped-crotch pants made from 100% cotton, so they’re not just breezy — they’re also breathable.
Free People
Psst! Reviewers say these run large, so size down for a more fitted look.
Promising reviews: “I have tried, without luck, to get these pants for over a year. They are every bit as wonderful as I had hoped. The fabric is a great weight for late spring/summer weather. It is gauzy and feels airy but isn’t see-through. The only negative is that they are hand-wash only — a negative in that I want a pair in every color and to wear them all of the time.” —jaharr
“These are my favorite pants! Perfect for hot Texas days.” —runnergirl0000
Price: $60 (available in sizes XS–XL and eight colors; all colors not available in all sizes).
3. A puff-sleeve baby doll minidress that really evokes the ’70s, with its square neckline and ruched button-up bodice. Pair this with some leather boots and a hair kerchief, and you’ll look like you just stepped off Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours tour bus.
Free People
Promising reviews: “I got this dress for an outdoor concert date party for my sorority, and it worked so well! I paired it with tall brown boots and a cute bandana! It’s super comfy and soft! I love the baby-doll fit!” —Free People Customer
“I don’t own a lot of dresses, but I have a few weddings this summer for the first time in a long time, and also a vacation. This dress is going to fill a lot of gaps! The fabric is substantial enough to hold its shape but light enough for SoCal weather, and the bodice and open back are visually interesting. It will be perfect for the Sunday brunch events at both weddings and for pretty much any dinner while on vacation. If I were a dress person, I would get more colors!” —Moniblu
Price: $88 (available in sizes XS—XL and six colors).
4. A pair of ruffled denim shorts, because short-shorts can be cute, but on incredibly hot days, tight fabric squeezing your skin is simply a no-go. And don’t get intimidated looking at all those buttons — these shorts actually pull on and off with an elasticized waist.
Free People
Promising reviews: “These shorts are li-ter-ally the cutest things I own and are so so comfortable! I definitely recommend sizing down (I sized down two sizes) to reduce gapping. They have a stretchy back, so they shouldn’t be too tight.” —anonymous
“These shorts are so cute. The material is light, good for hot days, and super comfortable.” —CanadianGirl3
Price: $78 (available in sizes XS–XL and three colors)
5. A drapey tank since it’s like your favorite tank, but even breezier, with exaggerated armholes and ultra-thin straps.
6. A loose, frilly romper that has a bit of a vintage lingerie vibe…except unlike your fave vintage slip, this piece has built-in shorts to keep your thighs from chafing on the hottest of summer days.
Free People
Promising review: “This is one of my new favorite pieces! Perfect for the beach, cruise vacation…dress it up or down and it’s super cute. Please make it in more colors!!” —Free People Customer
Price: $78 (available in sizes XS–XL and five colors).
7. A pair of low-rise barrel shorts because the last thing you need in the dog days of summer is tight denim shorts that cling. These wide-cut shorts — which flare out from the waist and have an adjustable drawstring to create a personalized fit — are slouchy-chic and keep the airflow going.
Free People
Promising reviews: “I love these shorts. They are lightweight, perfect length, and run TTS. I did size up one for the lower on the hip look (but I can’t stand anything around or above my belly button) and they are loose, but I’m not swimming in them.” —anonymous
“These are so cute, and the cinch waist makes them different from my other denim shorts. I’m going to appreciate these all summer long!!!” —Visualchick1
Price: $128 (available in sizes 24–33 and nine colors)
8. A cotton-blend strapless bustier top to help you look polished while you also wear as little clothing as possible.
Free People
FYI, reviewers say this top runs small.
Promising review: “Should be called EVERY afternoon tube top because I want to wear this top EVERY afternoon! The fit is absolutely perfect. The top is so comfortable. Doesn’t ride down. I ended up buying it in black, too. 10/10 design.” —pizzawine
Price: $38 (available in sizes XS–XL and eight colors).
9. A seamless athletic onesie, so you can run errands, literally run, or just hang out on whatever couch is closest to the air conditioning vent, confident in the knowledge that you’re wearing fabric more breathable than your average ol’ athleisure.
Free People
Promising reviews: “I wear this all the time, and I’m obsessed. It is so comfortable, and I want to get so much more!” —milliesimonds
“Love this. I’ve used it for yoga. Very breathable. I have small thighs, and it rides up a little bit, but it’s OK since I’m moving a lot while in a yoga class. Love it and love the color.” —beautieandgrace
Price: $78 (available in sizes XS/S–XL and four colors)
10. A one-shoulder minidress so you can dress up a little, even when the weather is so sticky that all you want to do is sit around in your underwear. This smocked bodice jersey mini is a bit more pulled together than shorts and a tank, but it will help you stay just as cool. Reviewers say it works well as festival wear!
Free People
Promising review: “I love loooovve this dress! I have it in two colors and want more. It’s not too short and is very airy. Easy to dress up or down.” —JustineCee
“This dress is the absolute cutest! I wore it to Coachella, and it was just perfect for the festival!” —Free People Customer
Price: $68 (available in sizes XS–XL and nine colors; all colors not available in all sizes).
11. A pair of cotton shortalls that you can wear over a tee, bralette, or all on its own, depending on how bad the heat’s gotten and how little you can tolerate the thought of any cloth touching your skin. Plus, its adjustable straps and drawstring waist can help you customize the fit.
Free People
Promising review: “Love this romper. The photos don’t do it justice. The material has a nice feel and texture to it. I’m 4’11†and it it ain’t long or short, just perfect. You can adjust the straps by tying them tighter. You will need an under tank or bralette due to the cut. Perfect breezy summer romper. I have a bigger butt and got a medium, and it’s perfect. Looser at the top, but I like a looser fit. I’m 36D and 28 pants.” —Anonymous
Price: $78 (available in sizes XS—XL and two colors).
12. An oversize open-back tee to keep the air flowing during your workouts — or during times when it’s so hot, just walking across the room feels like a workout.
Free People
Promising reviews: “So cute! You just can’t go wrong with this shirt! So light and comfy.” —Free People Customer
“This is seriously my favorite workout shirt I’ve ever worn! I love how lightweight it is. And the design with the open back makes it so breathable. And I love how it’s see-through with the open back, so you can match a cute sports bra underneath it. Genuinely the best, I have four colors and need more!!” —Milan
Price: $48 (available in sizes XS–XL and 22 colors)
13. An open-back maxi dress with a built-in bandeau and crochet lace inserts, so you can live out all your summertime boho dreams without worrying about rivers of sweat ruining your style.
Free People
Promising reviews: “Perfect dress for a family photos session on the beach. Super comfortable, breathable, relaxing fit. Received so many compliments on it, absolutely loved it.” —Meg D.
“Love this dress and most FP dresses! Color is what I expected. It fits right. Perfect for Miami’s weather! â¤ï¸” —TeresaSP
Price: $128 (available in sizes XS–XL and seven colors).
14. A baby doll top and shorts set for scorching summer days when it feels like the best move is wearing as little as possible. This cotton two-piece also features practical touches, like an adjustable open back and elastic-waist shorts with pockets.
Free People
Promising review: “So cute. I love this set, the back is so cute and dainty, and the front is just perfect. The top fits perfectly, and the bottoms run a bit big. I highly recommend this set.” —Free People Customer
Price: $88 (available in sizes XS—L and five colors; all colors not available in all sizes).
15. An incredibly airy floral print romper that has a beautiful open-front design and scalloped lace trim, because whoever said you can’t look gorgeous and sweat your brains out at the same time??
Free People
Price: $148 (available in sizes XS–XL).
16. A pair of running shorts with built-in UV protection because you don’t just need relief from this heat — you also need some protection from this sun! These lightweight, sweat-wicking, quick-drying bottoms are great for those of us foolish enough to exercise outdoors during the summer — but they’re also just super cute to wear as you live your life.
Free People
Promising review: “I’ve bought many shorts from Free People, and I love them all, but these are definitely my favorite. They fit so well and are cute. The shorts are stretchy and thin, perfect for the summer! The waistband is thick and not tight. Good for everyday wear and running!” —Free People Customer
Price: $48 (available in sizes XS—XL and six colors).
17. A high-neck minidress with a drapey front and tulip hem that will look cool and an open back that will actually keep you cool when you agree to attend a party on what turns out to be the hottest night of the year.
Free People
18. A wide-striped strapless jumpsuit that feels polished enough to wear to a slightly fancy dinner or event (where you will have the envy of everyone getting sticky in tight-fitting dresses or shirts).
Free People
Promising review: “I love and wore this on my trip to the DR and received compliments… I just ordered another yellow colored one yesterday.” —Free People Reviewer
Price: $98 (available in sizes XS–XL and six colors)
19. A button-up pointelle tank, so you can pop a few extra buttons on those especially scorching days.
Free People
Promising review: “Perfect go-to everyday tank for layering or warm weather. I purchased several colors, along with the longline bralette shown in many of the images (also in several colors), and this will be an outfit staple for me this spring/summer.” —loslvrman
Price: $38 (available in sizes XS–XL and 21 colors)
20. A boho-inspired minidress that’s flowy enough to keep you cool all summer, and then can be layered with jeans or tights and a sheer long-sleeve top in the fall. It’s called “having range,” people!
Free People
Promising review: “Really cute fit, not too short, and will work well throughout summer and layered when it’s colder.” —Free People Customer
“This dress is really comfy and lightweight. Does feel like a slip but more flowy.” —anonymous
Price: $118 (available in sizes XS–XL and 12 colors)
21. A backless deep-V halter dress with an adjustable neck tie, because there are days when the weather is so humid, you can practically SEE the air, and yet? You are still expected to show up to fancy events, looking presentable! Listen, I agree, it should absolutely be banned. But until that day, this airy dress can get you through.
Free People
Promising reviews: “I bought this dress back in 2017. I have worn it to brunches, beach weddings, dates, to run errands, and lazy days at home. Every time I wear it, I get so many compliments. It has a nice silhouette, the yellow is incredibly eye-catching, and the billowy fabric gives it this wonderful, delicate feel. I LOVE THIS DRESS. If I had it my way, I would be buried in it.” —Cara0312
“Gorgeous dress that fits true to size. I wasn’t sure I could rock this dress, but I tried it on and was ready to go out and show it off. The fabric is light and cool. I may need to buy more colors.” —Free People Customer
Price: $98 (available in sizes XS–XL and seven colors).
22. A lace bandana top, because its Y2K edge will make it the perfect going-out top in July and August, when it’s so hot and humid, walking down the street basically feels like swimming.
23. A baby doll midi since its convertible straps give you tons of styling options, and its open back ensures that even though you’re wearing a longer piece, you’ll stay as cool as possible. Plus, get a load of that incredibly cute bow in the back! You look like a lil’ present.
Free People
Promising reviews: “I want to buy this dress in every color! I purchased the sailor blue and love it. The material is high quality. There are straps that can be removed to be worn strapless, or you are able to adjust the straps if kept on. The best part, pockets! This is the perfect dress that can be dressed up or down.” —Free People Customer
“This is a beautiful dress, and the red color really pops! The linen lies really nicely, but it’s a bit rough (texture) to wear the first time. The chest area is small, but the back is tie-adjustable. There are shoulder straps that are adjustable as well. I go between a large and XL in Free People. It depends on the flow of the dress. I wanted this loose and breezy for the summer. I purchased it in an XL. I love it!” —AutumnCan
Price: $98 (available in sizes XS—XL and six colors).
24. A V-neck tank top because its rounded neckline and raised seams make it stand out from the billion other cotton-blend tanks that you already own.
Free People
Promising review: “This is a perfect tee. Lightweight but thick enough to hold its shape. A little large under the arms, but not so big that you have to wear something underneath. I have a longer torso, so I love the length of this shirt.” —Free People Customer
Price: $38 (available in sizes XS–XL and in 12 colors)
25. A V-neck minidress to maintain your immaculate, ethereal vibes, even when it is Sweat City out there. The dress’s short puff sleeves and lacy V-neck are wildly romantic, while its 100% cotton construction ensures that it’ll stay breathable even in the steamiest weather. Is it hot in here, or is it just me? (It is very, very hot in here.)
26. A linen matching set, so you can nail that “rich ’70s lady who lives on the beach in Malibu and has a will-they-or-won’t-they thing with the local bearded rock star” look that I know I, personally, am always trying to achieve in the summertime.
Free People
Promising review: “Nice for this summer, love the way it fits me!!! For summer, it is ideal!” —Free People Customer
Price: $88 (available in sizes XS–XL and 13 colors)
27. And finally, a soft, stretchy tube top, because its fold-over twist detail gives it a little extra style compared to a plain tube top. And even when it’s too hot to think…you can at least still appreciate a little style.
Free People
Promising review: “Gorgeous, solid basic. Absolutely adore this top!” —Free People Customer
Price: $30 (available in sizes XS/S—L/XL and five colors).
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Reviews for this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.
