A two-month-long vacation with cerulean skies and uninterrupted sunshine is a dream that’s not likely to last. Even in the middle of summer, rainy days are inevitable. But just because the weather is drab, it doesn’t mean your outfits have to be. An umbrella, a raincoat, and waterproof footwear are wise investments, but you can add a few more things to look good in a drizzle.
In case you’ve been saving up for rainy days during the COVID-19 lockdown, now’s the time to use them. Because of the unpredictable weather, having staple rain pieces is essential this season. Now you might think your options are limited to tacky-looking raincoats and unflattering hoodies, but that’s not always the case.
If you want to dress for hot, rainy summer days without compromising style, you’re in luck! I’ll let you in on how to do precisely that and more—from chic bombers to waterproof Chelsea boots, these fashionable outfit ideas will guarantee you don’t get drenched this summer. So, read ahead to see how to stay fashionably dry.
What to Wear on a Rainy Summer Day
Heat and humidity are some of the things you should consider in an unpredictable summer downpour, so dressing in cool, light, and weather-protective layers is a nice touch.
An excellent lightweight rain jacket, waterproof boots, loose pants, and a fitted cap can usually do the job. Flexibility and comfort are the absolute highlights of summer fashion, and you want these qualities to be noticeable even when it starts to pour.
Jacket
A good summer jacket can either be barely noticeable or is a statement piece. What matters most is having a dry top at the end of the day. That said, it is essential to consider what type of activity you’ll be doing before purchasing one.
These are not the type you wear every day as you might during the colder seasons. Instead, hiking, biking, swimming, and camping on those chilly summer nights are some of the reasons you’d need a windproof, water-resistant, and adaptably warm jacket for.
A down jacket can be lightweight and waterproof in some cases, but it can also be too warm for most summer days. You want a coat that is a great all-around choice for whatever type of rain or activity you might encounter. So, below are some of our excellent summer jacket choices.
Bomber
Nothing is cooler than a boss bomber jacket to replace the more formal and go-to business blazer. In summer, cotton, seersucker, or oxford fabrics are great. Always remember that the more luxe the material, the fancier it appears. You can opt for a thick one to keep you warm or a soft and light one for days that need layering. The ones made of velvet can even be worn to semi-formal events.
A classic bomber jacket and shorts combo work really well together, especially if you complement it with low-top sneakers. It’s a simple and appropriate outfit for hot weather that can be sported throughout the summer.
A casual and modern look can also be accomplished by pairing a bomber jacket with black sweatpants or chinos. The whole look can appear incredibly dashing when paired with suede desert boots.
The bomber is a summer-appropriate piece that can weather a few misty droplets. Pair it with a nice fitted baseball cap, and you’re ready to face humectants for a decent period. The different variations of an ensemble are limitless for this versatile outerwear.
Coat
The advantage of wearing coats during the spring and summer is the significant reduction of thickness relative to winter coats. In addition, many coats double as innerwear in colder months, but that is not the case for the warmer seasons.
The trench coat is a chic and true classic in men’s wear. Both long and short versions look great with countless outfits. During the summer, an excellent variety of these coats range from classic cuts to more modern versions.
Lighter-colored trench coats are not only summer-appropriate, but they also offer great versatility and dynamic between the classic and the hip. They pair very well over jeans and classic pants. Shorter trench coats make you look younger and more athletic, whereas longer trenches exude a more standard feel.
Coats can also withstand windy, rainy days. Shades of brown warm the eye while exuding masculinity. Textures similar to matted mahogany and oak, along with a classic umbrella, definitely hold up well in a downpour.
Shoes
Whether they’re sneakers, dress shoes, or boots, waterproof shoes help you deal with unforeseen weather changes. A functional and stylish pair can help make every bad-weathered day more bearable.
Default footwear for rainy seasons is often very unstylish. The duck boot, for example, has a more extensive profile, making them uncomplimentary with several modern trousers such as tapered jeans and chinos.
To make it in modern summer times, consider the following pairs for your next rainy walk.
Chelsea
A Chelsea-style rain boot is a classic. These look good and are very utilitarian, making them perfect for men who need waterproof footwear that pairs well with jeans and formal trousers. One Chelsea-style rain boot that’s worth looking into is the Hunter’s classic. The boot has a more narrowed toe tip and thinner sole which complements really well with suits and business ensembles.
The Norwegian brand Swims’ Chelsea boot with a cushioned insole and non-chafing fabric-lined interior is another pair meant for all-day wear. The boot has a thick sole and is crafted from vulcanized rubber, which provides traction on slippery surfaces.
If you want to go for a sleeker look, the refined version of the Hunter classic from Oregon is the one to go for. This model features functional elements such as an anti-slip outsole, extra cushioning, and moisture-wicking technology to minimize foot odor, a convenient addition for muggy days.
The Chelsea style is a pair that looks just as appropriate in the office as it does on the street. These boots often come in rubber, giving you added safety from curbside puddles. The boots’ two non-rubber panels at the ankle area also allow airflow through them for added comfort, a footwear feature you should expect for summer.
Chukka
Chukka boots are ankle-high leather boots with suede or leather uppers, leather or rubber soles, and open lacing with a pair or three of eyelets. They look very similar to Chelsea boots but are more casual in style because of the laces. This footwear originated in tropical climates, making them perfect for summer.
For a summer look, pairing a classic Chukka with a pair of slim-fitting jeans works wonders. Go for a sockless look and turn up the jeans’ hem to show a sliver of skin above the boots’ cuff. Top the entire outfit with a cotton or linen shirt to stay cool.
The Postman Chukka is a pair that can weather any season. It’s comfortable to work, drink, and walk in while looking sharp every step of the way. Another favorite Chukka pair are the Blundstones which can withstand the nastiest puddle and keep your foot temperature regulated.
Chukka boots are one of the most flexible footwear for any season, including summer. They are the perfect balance between smart and casual and can be worn with jeans any time of year.
Pants
Now let’s move on to pants. Finding a pair of pants that is comfortable, durable, and stylish in the sweltering summer heat can be challenging. Linen pants feel cool from the inside, but they wrinkle easily, are prone to visible sweat marks, and usually can’t last a day without needing a wash.
Investing in a proper pair of seasonally appropriate trousers will elevate your summer look without compromising your comfort. Board shorts, although acceptable when taking a dip or tanning, might not be the best choice if you want to maintain a sense of style and pragmatism.
Since it will be hotter over the summer, there’s no need to reach for unusually skinny jeans. We have two options for the ideal weather adaptive summer pants that work well in everyday, outdoor situations.
Jeans
If the warmer months upset you because it makes your favorite jeans harder to wear, take a deep breath and calm down. So long as you’re wearing the right type, you can still pull it off! When it comes to summer denim, you want to lighten up, go for a slightly looser fit to retain breathability, and opt for lightweight material instead of heavy-duty fabric.
Before you label white jeans completely impractical, consider that, just like black, white is a neutral shade that goes with pretty much everything in your wardrobe. But unlike black, it reflects heat rather than absorbs it.
Raw denim gets men very sweaty. Instead, look to pre-washed jeans, which soften rigid denim and provide a faded indigo finish to limit sunlight absorption. Unfortunately, the more material you slip into, the more heat it traps. Although suitable for cool days, it’s hell on a heatwave commute.
Thinner designs that use more delicate threads offer more comfort in summer—the less raw your denim, the less smart. So look to match with T-shirts and box-fresh white sneakers. No pair of pants—no matter how loose-fitting or lightweight—will feel as freeing as shorts. But the coverage you get with jeans for when it starts to pour makes up for it.
Jogger
Joggers are an international fashion statement. What once was considered grubby home clothes are now snazzy streetwear. These trousers are dynamic as there seems to be no end to how you can wear them.
Sweatpants were made for ultimate casual comfort, so naturally, you’d want to wear them for a laid-back feel. If you’re heading out with little time to prepare, joggers are a convenient and stylish choice. Brightly-colored and loose-fitting joggers paired with a neutral-colored slim-fit shirt provide a simple and balanced look.
If you prefer neutrals, grab a pair of black joggers matched with a similar-tone t-shirt or opt for something muted to create contrast. Sweatpants are not exactly the first thing that comes to mind when you think of formal wear. But you can use joggers to dress casually smart.
Paying attention to the tags on your clothes makes all the difference in achieving this look. If your top is of higher quality material, such as 100 percent cotton, and your sweatpants fit just right, this look will be right on the money. You’ll also be glad to have dry legs for when it unexpectedly pours.
Cap
Although the term “waterproof hat” doesn’t sound sexy, you’ll see how attractive it is right off the bat with the right outfit! Of course, nobody wants to get soaking wet, but no one wants to be stuck inside because of a bit of downpour either.
Waterproof hats keep your head good and dry in moist conditions. It is an excellent and trendy headwear that comes with a lot of cool features like the UPF protection factor and even small compartments for trinkets and accessories! When the sky governs what you’re wearing, style shouldn’t have to suffer.
Boonie
Style sometimes takes a back seat to make room for function when it comes to headwear. Men who spend a lot of outdoor time can benefit significantly from Boonie hats which are helpful for sun protection, camouflage, and even convenient storage in special compartment features.
Boonie hats are a lot like bucket hats but with a broader and stiffer brim. They are initially designed for soldiers working in desert climates and have become popular with hikers, fishers, and other outdoorsy types.
From plain to camouflage, several different styles are available to suit a wide range of tastes. In addition, Boonie hats are often collapsible, making them convenient to pack. The mesh vents at the top also let heat out, and an adjustable fit means it’ll be comfortable for just about anyone.
Various color and pattern options make it an ideal accessory to match your unique style, from outdoorsy and utilitarian to bright and fun. These hats are also 100 percent waterproof and an excellent choice for bad weather.
Rainy Summer Day Essentials
With the warmer season officially closing in, you’re likely asking yourself what items you can add to your wardrobe to prepare for the summer. However, you can’t just ignore the April shower mists and the sporadic deluge of rainfall.
So, what are the essential summer rainy-day wardrobe pieces and items you should invest in to keep you dry? If you want to know the answers to these questions, keep reading to find out!
Raincoat
To stay dry without weighing yourself down, you’re going to want to ditch full-weight rain jackets and opt for breezier pieces. The days when raincoats were purely functional have passed. Today, outerwear options allow you to be both stylish and practical.
Companies like REI and Patagonia offer many great high-tech jackets geared toward the outdoors that are incredibly high-quality and functional. Their design is targeted for casual use and is still fully waterproof, breathable, and hike-friendly.
Fjällräven is a Swedish brand best known for its twee backpacks and fashionably functional rain jackets. The Greenland jacket is a popular choice and has a vintage feel due to the military waxed cotton fabric, which can be reapplied at any time with treatment! So if you live in a city where it rains spontaneously, this is a great option.
A man’s raincoat is among the most valuable possessions in his wardrobe during the muggy summer days. However, rain jackets often tread the line of being too light to actually handle a downpour or look closely like a winter coat. Always opt for fabrics that are perfect for summer showers and physical activities.
Umbrella
Gone are the times when parasols used to be directed to the female clientele. Men now have various choices for their U.V. and rain shields, from folding Umbrellas to Windproof Umbrellas and much more.
This summer, what you need is a robust and high-quality umbrella. The Blunt Metro Umbrella is a scallop-edged beauty with high quality and design. It has a 360-degree canopy that allows it to spin to avoid damage when it gets knocked. It is also compact and ergonomically easy to handle.
Another quality parasol is the Eez-y Compact Golf Umbrella. It spans 58 inches and has a rounded shape making it a full-rounded coverage umbrella. This design is excellent for sheltering you plus one, and despite its ample size, it folds down reasonably quickly and small. It also weighs just a little over a pound.
An umbrella is a handy item to have year-round. Of course, raincoats only cover the top half and waterproof boots your toes, but the best umbrellas act as the first line of defense against spontaneous downpours by sheltering your face, hair, and possessions.
Bag
Summer is always full of adventures, so it only makes sense to have lightweight, functional, and stylish bags to make sure you are ready no matter where this summer takes you.
The Timberland Cohasset 24-Liter Water-Resistant Backpack is a stand-out print bag that is lightweight, durable and has the added benefit of having a water-resistant coating. Multiple compartments provide ample space to hold a phone, sunglasses, and wallet. The large zip opening also makes it convenient to pack and unpack daily necessities.
For men who end up carrying everyone’s things on an outing, the L.L. Bean Hunter’s Tote Bag is a convenient choice. An extra-large interior holds everything from towels to portable speakers. It is a durable nylon tote and reinforced with double seams, making it an extremely compact and tough bag.
Whether you’re camping, going on a beach vacation, or having a backyard barbeque, bags are necessary to carry all your gear this summer. A lightweight quality fabric bag that is waterproof will ease having to worry about an unexpected storm.
Rainy Summer Day Outfit
Dealing with unexpected rain while on a trip is one of the most frustrating predicaments for any traveller. Imagine being excited about your itinerary only to wake up on a pouring morning! However, with the right attitude, shopping, and preparation, you can always weather the challenges.
Casual
If you prefer to stay indoors when the outside world is wet and mucky, you’re probably under the impression that it is impossible to stay fashionable in cold and frumpy weather. In that case, you might want to opt for a casual and put-together look.
A casual rainy day outfit is all about drawing attention to the jacket and simplifying the rest of the outfit by choosing comfy overclothes to protect you from rain. Try a leather or bomber jacket with a white turtleneck underneath. Match the bottom with dark jeans and ankle boots for a simple start.
You can also elevate your style with a bright-colored wool jacket. Layering is another great way to stay warm and stylish. By choosing pieces with a similar color tone that compliment one another, you create a pleasingly comfortable visual. Olive green pants with a simple shirt and button-down look great under a stylish wool jacket.
One common misconception about casual is that it is boring. I beg to differ. You can switch it up by wearing white ankle boots which stand out from the standard black and brown that people are used to seeing. Adding attention-grabbing accessories and a hat also ,adds sophistication to a super casual look.
Spring Downpour
The raincoat is an excellent alternative to the trench coat. It is lighter as they contain synthetic materials such as nylon, polyester, and blended cotton for water resistance. The advantage of a non-trench raincoat is the convenience offered by its lightweight nature, making it packable and perfect for travel.
Raincoats that come in reversible versions are also common, with one side being navy and the other khaki, for example. A tip would be to wear the more elegant fabric side out until it starts to rain, at which point you flip back to the impermeable side.
Plain raincoats are minimalist in terms of design, with covered front buttons and no belt. Present a clean and contemporary look by wearing an inner suit to emphasize professionalism. It gives off a polished look when you open the coat.
For footwear, you can wear a regular calf leather pair if the rain is light enough. Natural oil-based sole treatment such as Saphir’s Medaille d’Or Sole Guard can protect the shoe from water damage. Apply this to the soles of your dress shoes, let them dry, and you’re good to go! Top the entire look off with a water-resistant fedora for a classic feel.
Hipster
When someone thinks of a hipster outfit, you usually think of the festive side of summer, but rainy summer days can incorporate this style well too! Multiple layers, bizarre shoe choices, and thrifted jackets make unique outfits.
If you’re going for a more mysterious hipster rainy day outfit, a straightforward black leather jacket gives texture to a plain black undershirt. Don soft, gray dress pants for a sophisticated vibe.
You can also opt for a more stark contrast by wearing a shirt with an interesting pattern to match your black outerwear. What’s even better is if the shirt can be used as a jacket, so you don’t have to add a second layer.
Suppose you have a loose or oversized shirt as a top, pair it with tighter skinny jeans for your bottom. Rainy day outfits are usually darker, so you can break up all that monotones and neutrals with a patterned jacket, a pair of tan ankle boots, and glinty accessories to draw the eye to the entire look. You can also try opposites, such as wearing a heavy black Jean jacket over a simple white t-shirt.
Wet and Wild
To be completely waterproof, you have to invest in more than just a good coat. Even in the summer, rainy weather should be paired with dark clothing that hides signs of dampness. Fully water-repellent outer layers that don’t become transparent or change shade are not included.
White and light grey are two colors to avoid unquestionably. For your general attire, steer away from excessively baggy or tight fits. Feeling good in the rain also means feeling comfortable while staying as dry as possible.
Patagonia’s 3-in-1 Parka is a staple in men’s coat investment. It has a soft down lining and H2No waterproof outer layer that can convert into three different outer layer options for variety. Wear it with Carharrt’s Shoreline Storm Defender Pants and a pair of reliable, fully waterproof hiking boots, such as the KEEN’s Durand Polar model, to stay warm and dry.
A packable poncho is also an excellent option for summer rain. It goes great with quick-dry mesh sneakers such as those from Island footwear company Olukai. Complete the look with UPF 50 moisture-wicking shorts, a plain shirt, and add a waterproof sun hat to be dry and shaded all day.
Smart Casual
It’s normal to be worried about dirtying your favorite shoes or getting your fancy trousers wet when the weather is rainy. However, you can still dress up while wearing moderately casual pieces. A smart casual rainy day outfit is a blend of sophistication and appropriate weather dressing.
A simple black turtleneck matched with wool dress pants can keep the cold away and present a fresh look. Cover this with a long rain jacket, casual pair of rain boots, or fancy loafers, and you’re off to a great start!
If you want to play with texture, wear the black turtle neck and layer it with an elegant wool thrifted jacket. This top combination can accentuate the smartness of a pair of blue denim jeans. You can also draw attention by putting on tan or cream-colored outerwear with all black innerwear which consists of a turtleneck, denim, and boots.
Smart casual rainy day outfits don’t have to utilize overly sophisticated jackets either! A black leather jacket paired with dress pants and loafers can seal the deal.
Frequently Asked Question about What to Wear on a Rainy Summer Day
How do you dress when it is raining?
A rainy day outfit doesn’t have to be an ultimatum between casual or luxurious. It can be a blend of vintage, smart, simple, elegant, and unique. The idea is to choose comfort to protect you from rain. A good rule of thumb is to avoid delicate fabrics such as silk and heavy trousers like heavy-duty denim. Always opt for lighter layers that are water repellant and darker clothes that mask marks and other debris.
In the rain, what are the best clothes to wear?
It is always wise to have outerwear, a comfortable top, breathable trousers, and waterproof footwear along with the essential umbrella and water-resistant headwear. It pays to be stylish, but it’s more profitable to be practical!
Is it okay to wear a dress when it’s raining?
Bad weather doesn’t mean you can’t wear a super feminine outfit! A pair of knee-high black boots matched with a tight black shirt is a chic rainy look. For a more edgy vibe, an all-black ensemble consisting of a casual skirt, tights, and cotton t-shirt with simple black ankle boots can also be a great option. As long as you feel comfortable and stay dry as much as possible, the possibilities are limitless for everyone.
A Final Word From The Trending Man
I love going for a classic streetwear look in the rainy summer. I usually skip excessively monotone color schemes, bland textures, and jackets that make me look lifeless and bloated. I think it’s important to interject your personality in your outfit, whatever the condition may be.
Black pants with a brown turtleneck give a good contrast of neutral and warm tones. I’d also pair this with other accessories, like a black leather jacket and a pair of sports sneakers matched with patterned socks.
Keep in mind that a rainy day outfit doesn’t have to be dark and dreary. It’s important to remember that rainy summer outfits are, in essence, summer outfits. Keeping it fresh and vibrant is a choice you can make!
Never let your ensemble be a fleeting afterthought whenever you see the grays above. When in doubt, always remember cool fabrics, breathable trousers, light layering, and essential rain pieces will keep you stylish and dry all day long.
