Hot Weather, Cool Looks: Summer Outfits You’ll Love to Thrift

When the temps start rising in Arizona, the last thing you want is a closet full of clothes that make you sweat. But staying cool doesn’t mean sacrificing your style—or your budget. That’s where thrifted summer outfits come in, offering sustainable summer fashion that’s breathable, affordable, and totally on trend.

Whether you’re updating your summer wardrobe basics or decluttering last season’s styles, Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona has you covered from head to (sandaled) toe.

Summer Wardrobe Basics: What to Look For

Before you dive into your favorite Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona location, know what summer staples to look out for. Classic summer wardrobe basics include:

• Cotton tank tops in every color
• Linen button-ups for men and women
• Flowy sundresses are perfect for brunch or the beach
• Khaki shorts and denim cutoffs
• Wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses

Shopping at thrift stores lets you explore new styles without the pressure of high price tags. Experiment with patterns, colors, and fits until you find your summer vibe—boho, coastal grandma, sporty chic, or retro throwback? All available for less.

Why Choose Thrifted Summer Outfits?

Let’s talk about what makes thrifted summer outfits such a hot (but still breathable) trend:

• 🌎 Sustainable Summer Fashion: Buying secondhand keeps clothes out of landfills and reduces demand for new fast fashion production.
• 💰 Budget-Friendly: A full summer wardrobe can cost less than one item from a big box store.
• 🔄 Style Variety: Thrift stores carry one-of-a-kind pieces from different brands, eras, and styles.
• 🎨 Creativity Boost: Get creative with thrift store fashion hacks—like turning an oversized shirt into a beach cover-up or layering a slip dress over a tee.

Beat the Heat: Best Fabrics for Arizona Summers

Arizona summers call for materials that breathe. Keep an eye out for:

• Linen: Lightweight, stylish, and dries quickly—perfect for scorching days.
• Cotton: A classic for a reason. It’s soft, breathable, and easy to care for.
• Chambray: Looks like denim but feels much lighter—ideal for shorts or button-downs.

These linen and cotton summer clothes don’t just feel good—they help you look good without overheating. And chances are, you’ll find a wide variety on the racks at Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona.

Fashion for the Whole Family: Men, Women & Kids

Thrifting isn’t just good for you; it’s great for the whole family! Goodwill has summer finds for men, women, and kids, including:

• Men: Sport polos, cargo shorts, graphic tees, short-sleeve button-downs
• Women: Maxi dresses, skirts, tanks, rompers, and sandals
• Kids: Play-ready tees, swimwear, cute shorts, and sun hats

Need an outfit for your next family BBQ or pool party? Stop by a local Goodwill and find everything you need for under the cost of a takeout dinner.

Done With Last Year’s Outfits? Donate Them!

Cleaning out your closet? Let your gently used summer pieces find a second life. Here are a few tips:

• Where to donate summer clothes: Drop off at your nearest Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona donation center—many have drive-thru lanes for convenience. Use the locator tool to find your closest donation site.
• Summer wardrobe donation tip: Focus on items in good condition that others will love, like clean tops, shorts, sandals, and hats.

Donating not only supports sustainability but also helps fund job training and employment services through Goodwill’s local programs.

Thrift Store Fashion Hacks for the Win

Once you’ve scored your finds, give them a personal twist with these fashion hacks:

• Cuff your jeans or pants for instant ankle-baring breeziness
• Layer a crop tank under a linen button-down for versatile coverage
• Cut oversized tees into crop tops for a DIY look
• Turn your old denim pants into a trendy pair of distressed cutoffs
• Mix and match prints and textures to create Instagram-worthy outfits
• Upcycle with patches, pins, or embroidery for a look that’s all your own

Make It a Day Out: Visit Goodwill (Then Show Off Your Haul!)

Shopping at Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona isn’t just smart—it’s fun. Browse racks, chat with friendly team members, and leave with a bag full of treasures you didn’t even know you needed.

Planning to show off your look? Tag @goodwillaz on social media to inspire others to thrift their summer wardrobe.

Final Thoughts: Stay Cool, Shop Smart, Look Great

This summer, beat the heat and the fast fashion frenzy by thrifting your next favorite outfit. With breathable clothes for summer, styles for all ages and genders, and endless opportunities to donate or upcycle, there’s no better way to stay stylish and sustainable.

Whether you’re looking to donate summer outfits, build out your sustainable summer fashion collection, or simply score deals on linen and cotton summer clothes, Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona is your go-to destination.