Summer outfit ideas inspired by your favourite movie characters

Let’s face it—summer isn’t just a season, it’s a whole main character energy moment. Whether you’re pulling a Baby from Dirty Dancing and living your best lakeside life, going full glam like Astrid from Crazy Rich Asians, or manifesting soft-girl magic à la Belly from The Summer I Turned Pretty, there’s no one way to do summer, and these characters are proof. 

Whether you prefer Y2K and the more is more approach or you're team linen-and-lightness, we’ve rounded up the ultimate summer fashion inspo from some of our cult favourite movie characters! Take a look.

Baby from Dirty Dancing

Nothing like classic summer whites to ensure you have the time of your life. Baby masters the holy trinity of Cs: crops, casuals, and capris. Who can forget that white knotted top with denim Bermudas or the head-to-toe white look as she perfects the lift in the lake? Functional yet fresh, her sneakers and bodysuits mirrored her free-spirited, rebellious streak. After all, no one puts Baby in a corner—especially not when her style says it all.

Astrid from Crazy Rich Asians

If your summer’s going a little aristocratic, Astrid’s chic wardrobe is the blueprint you need. Refined and feminine-forward, her style walks the line between couture and casual. Her dreamy daytime look—baby pink dress, matching sunglasses, and the iconic Lady Dior—screams summer sophistication. And for the wedding? That Neil Felipp Siren clutch is unforgettable. Whether it’s a summer gala or a sundowner soirée, Astrid’s “crazy rich” aesthetic is your golden ticket.

Ayesha from Dil Dhadakne Do

Nobody does holiday wear quite like Ayesha. Her wardrobe on the cruise had it all—from breezy bohemian to sleek athleisure. Think: high-waisted palazzos, strappy crops, and a canary yellow hat that stole the show. And who could miss that all-black bodycon from 'Girls Like To Swing'—perfect for a glam evening with the fam. Her style is equal parts colourful, cool, and effortlessly chic. If summer had a wardrobe, it would be hers!

Belly from The Summer I Turned Pretty

Cue a Taylor Swift soundtrack and get ready to channel Belly Conklin. Youthful, playful, and made for the beach, her style is girl-next-door meets coastal chic. From the lilac prom dress made for seaside twirls to the oversized crew necks and daisy crop tops, it’s a Pinterest dream. Flirty, pastel-heavy, and effortlessly romantic—Belly’s summer style is a certified cult classic.

Elle Woods from Legally Blonde

Elle Woods knows how to make a statement—both in court and with couture. Girly, bold, and unmistakably pink, her wardrobe is all about organised glam. Think: a pink blazer for Harvard, a floral halter for brunch, and enough Chanel energy to own every room. Want to keep it preppy, pretty and powerful this summer? Just ask Elle. What, like it’s hard?

Cher Horowitz from Clueless

Had Cher turned her energy to fashion blogging instead of matchmaking, the film might not have been called Clueless. A '90s fashion icon and the ultimate trendsetter, Cher was always one step ahead. That yellow plaid co-ord? Still iconic. The Calvin Klein slip? Peak nonchalant couture. If your vibe is teen-meets-Beverly Hills, Cher’s got you covered—in head-to-toe designer, obviously.

Tara from Tamasha

Soft-glam and carefree, Tara’s wardrobe mirrors her character’s arc to perfection. In Corsica, anonymity calls, and her style follows suit—fresh, light, and quietly luxe. From the indigo dress in Corsica to the white bralette and fringed bag, her wardrobe blends French Riviera with urban desi cool. Flowy dresses, messy updos, and tank tops—Tara’s style is what easy summer days are made of.

Sophie from Mamma Mia

Straight out of a Greek-island Pinterest board, Sophie’s boho-beach aesthetic is a summer fantasy. Think embroidered peasant tops, high-waisted shorts, and earthy tones on breezy fabrics. Her halter-neck wedding dress? Effortlessly convertible to evening wear. And that blue-and-white striped swimsuit? Perfect for any Mediterranean escape. Her vibe is laid-back luxe—and we’re singing 'Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!' in agreement.

Lead image: Getty Images and IMDb 

Also read: Chic co-ord skirt sets that were made for your next beach holiday

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