A dressy summer outfit for your outdoor soirees

Cotton is your best friend

It's natural and breathable, which is extremely important during heat waves. Cotton isn't limited to T-shirts and denim, though. This lace dress is made from cotton, both the lining and the lace! Check the tags for fiber content.

When in doubt, wear a dress

It requires very little thought and even fewer layers, but can instantly make you look pulled together. Keep a few summery options on hand: a mini (like the one I'm wearing), a gauzy trapeze and a maxi. Nothing can make you feel more glamorous than a goddess maxi dress, even when you're sticky, sweaty and hot.

Pare down the accessories

I swap out my statement jewelry for bold sunglasses and colorful shoes and bags. Nothing is more uncomfortable than jewelry sticking to balmy skin.

Wear a hat. It's an instant fix for a bad hair day, helps keep you in the shade and makes up for the lack of accessories.

Change your makeup

Swap out your foundation for BB cream. It's a lightweight, all in one with SPF as an added bonus.

Get the look

1. White lace dress (Modcloth, $100), 2. Boater hat (Goorin Bros Hat Shop, $118), 3. Coach purse (Coach, $168), 4. Red peep toe heels (Pictured: Kate Spade -- Similar: Johnathan Kayne, $84), 5. Cat eye sunglasses (Modcloth, $11)