ASK FP
What Should I Wear? Summer Edition
By: Caitlin Madden
Free People’s fashion hotline… who’s calling?
Do you ever wish you had an expert on-call for all of your fashion-related questions? Someone to help you find the perfect outfit every day? Someone who can basically shop for you? Well, that’s kind of what it’s like working at Free People.
Everyone is constantly talking about the latest trends, the next big style, the must-have items—there’s underlying fashion advice in every conversation. I often find myself taking these little nuggets of FP wisdom and working them into my own wardrobe choices.
So now, I’m letting you be part of the conversation.
I took some of the most asked fashion questions, consulted our very stylish Home Office employees, and rounded up our most-recommended products for each situation.
First up: what to wear this summer. Because there’s nothing like dusting off last year’s summer wardrobe and realizing you need to do a little refresh.
Come on, let’s go shopping together.
Everyone is constantly talking about the latest trends, the next big style, the must-have items—there’s underlying fashion advice in every conversation. I often find myself taking these little nuggets of FP wisdom and working them into my own wardrobe choices.
So now, I’m letting you be part of the conversation.
I took some of the most asked fashion questions, consulted our very stylish Home Office employees, and rounded up our most-recommended products for each situation.
First up: what to wear this summer. Because there’s nothing like dusting off last year’s summer wardrobe and realizing you need to do a little refresh.
Come on, let’s go shopping together.
A DRESS THAT WON’T WRINKLE IN MY SUITCASE
“Help. I’m going on vacation and I have some things planned that I want to dress up for, but I don’t want to waste time ironing.”
Allow us to introduce our free-est Fauxchet collection. These knit styles have a little more weight to them so they won’t wrinkle as easily as linen or cotton, plus the woven designs are so beachy, they’re practically begging to be added to your packing list.
Allow us to introduce our free-est Fauxchet collection. These knit styles have a little more weight to them so they won’t wrinkle as easily as linen or cotton, plus the woven designs are so beachy, they’re practically begging to be added to your packing list.
A BAG TO TAKE FROM WORK TO HAPPY HOUR
“I’m trying to make the most of summer by saying yes to plans right after work, so I need a bag that can fit my laptop, my makeup bag and some day-to-night essentials”.
Our Emerson tote fits everything and then some. The oversized, slouchy style is big enough to stash your work life, with space left over to hold whatever you need to be going-out-ready (you could probably fit a whole change of clothes in here!). Plus, it’s crafted in a stunning leather that comes in lots of colors to choose from.
Our Emerson tote fits everything and then some. The oversized, slouchy style is big enough to stash your work life, with space left over to hold whatever you need to be going-out-ready (you could probably fit a whole change of clothes in here!). Plus, it’s crafted in a stunning leather that comes in lots of colors to choose from.
A SHOE THAT GOES WITH EVERY SUMMER OUTFIT
“There is nothing harder than finding summer shoes. I feel like I need to buy a different pair for everything I wear, but I can’t do that so I need to find something that’s actually versatile.”
These sandals strike a perfect balance between casual and elevated. They’re sleek and on-trend, but not so trendy that you won’t be able to wear them next year. They feel sporty enough to pair with shorts and a tee, but could easily be dressed up with a flowy maxi or some fun flares.
These sandals strike a perfect balance between casual and elevated. They’re sleek and on-trend, but not so trendy that you won’t be able to wear them next year. They feel sporty enough to pair with shorts and a tee, but could easily be dressed up with a flowy maxi or some fun flares.
SHORTS THAT AREN’T TOO SHORT OR TOO LONG
“I dread shorts season. I feel like every pair I find is either more revealing than I’d like or too long and looks a little sloppy. I need to find something that’s more flattering in between.”
You’re in luck because awkward lengths are the summer’s biggest trend for bottoms. These mid-length shorts are a cutoff version of our favorite slouchy jeans, so even though they’re a longer length, they keep that easy, relaxed silhouette that looks effortlessly cool.
You’re in luck because awkward lengths are the summer’s biggest trend for bottoms. These mid-length shorts are a cutoff version of our favorite slouchy jeans, so even though they’re a longer length, they keep that easy, relaxed silhouette that looks effortlessly cool.
A BRA THAT’S COMFY AND LIGHTWEIGHT
“Wearing a bra in the summer can be a nightmare–I’m sweaty, constricted and so uncomfortable. I need something breathable and soft instead.”
Keep it simple with this soft bralette in a soft and stretchy fabrication. It offers lightweight support with an easy pull on style and comfortable stretch that won’t squish you or trap in heat when it’s already hot outside.
Keep it simple with this soft bralette in a soft and stretchy fabrication. It offers lightweight support with an easy pull on style and comfortable stretch that won’t squish you or trap in heat when it’s already hot outside.
BIKINI BOTTOMS THAT ARE FAMILY-VACATION-APPROVED
“I’m headed on a family beach trip and I want a swimsuit that gives me a little more coverage than my typical cheeky styles.”
These shortie-style bottoms give the perfect moderate coverage while still offering a flattering, low-rise fit. They’re a boyshort-inspired silhouette that’ll keep you comfortable whether you’re playing beach games, splashing in the waves, or laying in the sun.
These shortie-style bottoms give the perfect moderate coverage while still offering a flattering, low-rise fit. They’re a boyshort-inspired silhouette that’ll keep you comfortable whether you’re playing beach games, splashing in the waves, or laying in the sun.
MORE, PLEASE!
FP SUMMER ESSENTIALS
MORE TO READ
5/23/25 | STYLING 101
How To Dress For Your Body Type
Finding the right styles that flatter you helps you feel your most confident self and makes shopping a breeze.
5/30/25 | STYLING 101
It’s A Cinch: A Belt For Every Bottom
And every summer concert.
6/6/25 | DESTINATION FREE-EST
City Outfit Guide: Los Angeles, CA
First stop, the City of Angels.