The Best Earth Tones to Wear This Summer (That Never Look Boring)
Today, I’m kicking off my Summer Color Series with something soft, natural, and surprisingly bold: the best earth tones to wear this summer. These shades are anything but boring, and when styled well, they can become some of the most flattering pieces in your warm-weather wardrobe.
Let’s be honest, no one wants to look like they blend into the couch. You might think of earth tones as safe or subdued, but they can actually be rich, radiant, and full of personality. Think rust, terracotta, olive, and camel, all the colors that bring a grounded yet elevated feel to your summer outfits.
Here’s how to wear those cozy neutrals with confidence and stay far, far away from looking tired or dull.
What are the best earth tones to wear in summer?
The best summer earth tones include rust, terracotta, olive, camel, clay, and soft greens. These shades bring warmth and depth to your look while still feeling light and seasonal.
Do earth tones look good on everyone?
Yes, but it’s all about choosing the right undertone! If you have cool undertones, try rust, olive, or soft coffee shades. Warm undertones look great in apricot, camel, and clay. Try mixing in white or blush to keep the palette fresh.
Real-Life Ways I Wore Earth Tones This Summer
Rust Red That Feels Warm, Not Heavy
I wore this Short Sleeve Cable Knit Sweater last fall, and I’m still just as in love with the rich rust red shade today. It’s a beautiful example of how earth tones can feel vibrant instead of muted.
The color adds warmth to your look without overpowering, and the texture gives it that perfect in-between feel, light enough for summer but still cozy enough for cooler mornings or air-conditioned spaces. I’ve washed and dried it several times, and it’s held up beautifully. If you’re easing into the season or just want a pop of earthy color, this is a great place to start.
Sage Green with a Feminine Touch
Sage green is one of those earth tones that feels soft and serene, but still makes a subtle statement. I styled this gorgeous maxi skirt with lace detailing and, yes, pockets, for a feminine look that works beautifully in late summer. The elastic waistband keeps it comfortable, while the flowy silhouette brings elegance and ease.
I paired it with a Navy Tank and my favorite classic Denim Jacket for contrast, but this skirt would also look lovely with a tucked-in white blouse and neutral sandals. Earth tones like sage are such a flattering way to ease into cooler weather once fall rolls around, making this skirt very versatile.
Effortless Neutrals in a Breezy TENCEL™ Blend
This lightweight Maxi Shirtdress from J.Jill is a beautiful example of how earth tones can feel fresh and coastal. Made from a soft TENCEL™ Lyocell and cotton blend, it has that airy feel we love for summer, without the texture of traditional linen.
I added a lightweight Open-Knit Shrug for a little extra warmth without losing that relaxed, windswept look. Paired with Cork Sandals, this outfit is made for a slow afternoon summer day. It’s simple, understated, and perfectly styled for summer.
Soft Green Style: Blu Pepper Smocked Maxi Dress
This Smocked Maxi Dress hits all the right notes. The smocked bodice is incredibly flattering, and the soft green color is warm, and the style is easy-breezy. It’s lightweight, flowy, and ideal for hot summer days. I love it as a transitional piece too—just add a denim jacket and a statement necklace for cooler evenings.
Clay Toned Charm: Area Stars Tassel Tie Midi Dress
If you’ve ever shied away from earth tones because they felt “too basic,” this Tassel Tie Midi Dress will change your mind. The soft clay shade feels grounded and natural, but the tassel tie neckline and airy fabric give it playful movement. Style it with a white bangle bracelet and woven sandals to keep the vibe boho-chic and breezy.
Small but Mighty: Flow Away Satin Square Scarf
A little scarf can go a long way when you’re styling neutral tones. This Satin Square Scarf mixes brown and gold hues in a soft satin fabric that adds instant polish. Try it around your neck, in your hair, or tied to your bag for a pop of texture and warmth that won’t wash you out.
Your Go-To Neutral: Franco Sarto Tayana Flat
I’m a huge fan of Franco Sarto shoes! Every summer wardrobe needs a versatile flat, and the Tayana Flat is a winner. The brown tone complements warm and cool undertones alike, and the square toe adds a subtle modern edge. These look just as good with cropped pants as they do with flowy maxi dresses or classic denim. You can’t go wrong with Franco Sarto!
Utility Cool: Jules Crop Utility Pants
Utility pants are the cool cousin of chinos, and this brown-green shade gives off effortless earth tone energy. They’re not muddy or dull, they’re stylish and versatile. Pair them with a crisp white tee or a dark brown top for a contrast that’s clean, modern, and totally pulled together.
Cilantro Chic: Creaseless High-Rise Palazzo Crop Pants
These cilantro-toned Palazzo Crop Pants are such a fun surprise. The wide-leg cut offers easy movement and drama, while the elastic waistband keeps things comfy. Tuck in a white tank or a breezy button-down blouse, and finish the look with neutral sandals for a fresh, nature-inspired ensemble.
Apricot Elegance: MEROKEETY Lace Maxi Dress
If you have a fair to medium skin tone, this soft apricot dress will look like it was made for you. The delicate lace adds visual interest, and the color brings out a romantic glow. It’s perfect for brunch or summer events, just be cautious if you’re attending a wedding, since it’s a little close to white. (But don’t worry, it comes in several beautiful earthy shades too.)
Everyday Essential: Dokotoo Ruffle Short Sleeve Top
This knit blouse might be simple, but it’s anything but boring. The deeper coffee shade brings richness to your wardrobe, and the flutter sleeves add a flirty touch. I’d wear this with high-rise jeans, a pendant necklace, and comfy wedges. It’s the kind of top that works with everything and feels polished without trying too hard.
The Perfect Layer: Rust Button-Down Blouse
If you’ve been unsure about how to style rust, let this top be your guide. The color is bold yet wearable, especially if you have cool undertones. Wear it open over a white tank and jeans for a relaxed look, or tuck it into a skirt and belt it at the waist for more structure. It’s one of those unexpected pieces that ends up on repeat.
Tips for Wearing Earth Tones That Look Fresh, Not Flat
- Choose saturated shades, the deeper and richer, the better
- Mix in textures like lace, satin, or smocking to add visual interest
- Balance your neutrals with white, cream, or soft blush tones
- Accessorize with gold, tortoise shell, or natural woven elements
- Keep the silhouettes modern and flattering, flowy dresses, cropped pants, and tailored tops go a long way
So there you have it, the best earth tones to wear this summer that will never leave you looking washed out or dull. From warm greens and rich rusts to soft clay and creamy apricot, these colors bring your summer wardrobe to life in the most flattering way.
Remember, it’s not about avoiding neutrals, it’s about choosing the right ones. When styled thoughtfully, earth tones become the backbone of a wardrobe that feels fresh, effortless, and totally put together.
Which earth tone are you loving most right now, rust, camel, sage, or maybe something unexpected like cilantro? Let me know in the comments!
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5 But he was pierced for our transgressions,
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😀 I love the earth tones!
🙂 Love earth tones
😊 that khaki maxi dress looks cute and my favorite summer jean is the Kut from the Kloth capris kick flare.
😊Since I don’t color my hair anymore many earth tones don’t look that good on me anymore. I look better in bright colors. However I still am wearing those colors if it’s a piece I love.
😊That J Jill Maxi looks great on you. I am not sure I could pull off that color though.
🙂 the older I get the more I realize how much color matters.
😊I stay away from earth tones . I feel those colors wash me out.
Love all the neutral tones. 🙂
😊 I love earth tones! Warm and natural looking.
😊Love the lace maxi dress.
🙂 Joe sounds like a fun guy, never a dull moment.
😀 The rust button down shirt and the scarf would look wonderful styled together.
😊I really like that skirt. What about turquoise? I’m really feeling the turquoise this summer. Any ideas or thoughts on that?
I love turquoise. I wore an outfit yesterday that was turquoise. You’ll see it on the blog soon.
Can’t wait! It’s probably my favorite summer color.
😊 some cute clothes in this post.
🙂 I tend not to wear earth tones. I would have been totally disappointed also if I was expecting a piece of bread and got a slice of fruit.
Love the colors. 😊
I loved the outfits you styled – very soft and relaxed. 🙂 found it!
I can only imagine Joe’s face. It is such a surprise to bite into something expecting one thing and getting something totally different!
😊 Such pretty colors! I love sage. Joe definitely has a good sense of humor!
🙂. Beautiful earth tone clothes!
🙂 I love the greens this spring and summer. The green maxi dress is very pretty!
🙂 found it! I am kicking myself for not buying the J Jill shirt dress! Most sizes are sold out….. Boo Hoo!
Nice post. thanks for the tips.
😊Love the open-knit shrug! Earth tones look very good on you😊
As an Autumn, I can wear nearly all earth tones. They’re warm based and are my best colors! I wear the “lighter” earth tones in the spring and summer and the “deeper” ones in the fall and winter. Right now, I’m loving apricot, camel, fern, and coffee. I tend to save the olive, rust, and rust red for fall and winter. That’s how I vary my palette. 🙂
I totally would do that too Joe! I love rust and olive green. I have on a rust outfit from a post last spring! 😁
Found it
🙃 have the rust sweater and love it too. also love sage green.
Found It… Love all of the summer colors. how does someone know if they are cool or warm tones ? when choosing colors to wear.
:0) Love the shrug..just enough for summer
😀 sage is my pick!
🙂 I like the sage.
Found it. I like the JJill shirt dress with the shrug. Does it have pockets? I have not always like wearing dresses but now that they are adding pockets I am finding some cute ones.
😀 pretty almost a boho look.
FOUND IT
Poor Joe – sounds like he’s a good sport tho
Great finds
🙂 Found it!! What a beautiful collection that you have put together!! Thanks so much for all of your research and hard work!!
🙂
Love the khaki colored shirt dress and the cilantro pants!
🙂 found it
Love all your Joe stories. Our sweet hubbies keep us smiling.The greens are always good for me even tho I have no idea if I’m cool or warm.
He is always hilarious.
The lemon rind is funny i wore earth tones today!
😊 Love the rust-red sweater and ruffle sleeve top. Also the rust button down shirt is cute too.
🙂 The sage and rust are very pretty. I have some summer blouses in those colors.
found it!
I like that sage-colored smocked dress.
Love the sage green skirt!
: ) love the shirts.
🙂 The beige shirt dress is my favorite. Looks so easy to wear anywhere.
☺️ I don’t wear a lot of earth tones although I do like the greens and chocolate brown. Love the lace maxi dress!
😊. I love the earth tones but have to be careful with what I choose. My hair is silver/white and I have cool undertones. I usually wear the earth tones on my bottom half. Really like the palazzo crop pants.
Found it. Love the rich earth tones
☺ Love the maxi shirt dress and shrug!
😊Lots of pretty choices. LOL on Joe!!!
😊Thanks for sharing about earth tones and which colors to wear based on skin tone. I have always hesitated to wear earth tones but think I’ll give them a try now.
😊 Haven’t been into earth tones, but you’ve given food for thought!
😊thank you for this….i do not think about earth tones for summer
I do like earth tones. They do remind me of fall.
I like the cilantro color. I often mix earth tones with navy or black for more contrast. 🙂
Earth tones are not my best colors, but they look great on you ☺️
😊. Love the earth tone options.
🙂 I like to wear olive with black or navy. Love the flat Mary Jane and the lace dress.
🙂 Love the sage green colors and the short sleeve sweater too.
🙂 I like the first picture with the orange cable knit collared s/s sweater.
Love Greg Norman’s can’t beat the view ☺️
🙂 Hope you’re having a great time at the beach! My favorite vacay spot.
☺️ These are some of my favorite colors. Good suggestions.
:)Lovely neutrals today. Pretty funny story, poor Joe.
😉 Loving the earth tones
😁love the cilantro lands end pants
🙂 Thanks Tania. I usually think of earth tones for fall. These are great.
These fabrics and colors are great for those of us living in Texas to also wear in September and October when it’s still ridiculously hot but the calendar says Fall.
Love earth tones!
Found it
🙂 earth tones are my favorite colors to wears year round.
😀 if u are looking for a little day trip go down to Murrells Inlet to the Marshwalk for lunch or dinner . Beautiful area with great food! 🏖️
That sounds like fun.
😊 Love the Joe story and all the neutral!
🙂Great post. Love the shirt dress on you!
🙂I really like the sage color
🙂 Beautiful!
😀 Funny Joe story! Great color choices. The lace dress…gorgeous.
🙂 Beautiful outfits, great inspiration. Have a blessed week!
😀. Love the color of that cable knit sweater!
😊Love the sage green skirt! Funny bread story!
😊 I like the sage green maxi skirt and blue top. Thanks for the ideas about these neutral colors.
I am definitely on a green kick this season!!! Beautiful items! Happy Monday❤❤❤
🙂love the rust color
🙂 Thanks for the suggestions!
😊 Earth tones are my go to when I am not sure of the dress code for an occasion.
Beautiful selections!
😊 My favorite is the neutral shirt dress and shrug.
🙂 I have a pair of linen pants in soft sage. I pair it with a white top. I always wear plenty of camel or beige in the summer, tops and bottoms. Poor Joe!😝
🙂 Love the earth tones. Happy Monday!!
Found it! Tania, I must say, it doesn’t matter if you wear bright colors or neutrals, you look GREAT in all of them! I love, love, love the neutral dress. Thanks for the story about Joe, I love to eat my drink fruit too, I could exactly see my husband doing the same thing!
Lol! He was so surprised!
🙂 Found it
We love North Myrtle Beach. So do you live in SC?
No, we are just visiting.
🙂 Found it! Cute outfits! Love your story about bread rather rind! Laughs liek that are so fun!
Found it 🙂
Love the colors.
🙂 I love how you style things in ways I wouldn’t think of! That sage green skirt is gorgeous.
Found it 😀
Love wearing earth tones year round!
💛🧡❤
😊So many great options that we don’t think of for summer! Thank you for the ideas!
Beautiful earth tones 🌺
The maxi shirt dress is my favorite today! Found the 😊
I love that maxi. It is a great color.
😊The lace dress is beautiful!
😊 love the lace dress! Funny Joe story 🤣
It was hilarious. You should have seen his face. 😳
🙂My neutral tends to be black and white. Thanks for showing me new ideas.
😀 Love the maxi!
Found it 🙂
Love the shades of greens!
Love hunting for the smile! I’ve always liked khaki!
😀 cute ideas
🙂 I like all of these colors.
😊I like the long maxi sage skirt, maxi shirtdress, scarf and the Franco Tayana shoes.
It sounds like you found a lot of things you like.
😀I am an autumn and love earth tones although I get confused about undertones.
😊 thanks for sharing that funny story about Joe!
😊
I like the rust red, olive and apricot colors.
🙂 Liking those Franco Sarto flats.
Poor Joe thinking he was getting a corner of the delicious crusty bread! Lol! I’m with you, I think earth tones can work out in the summer with the right mix! The jean jacket and maxi skirt are so cute together! Love the blues with the green!
😊My favorite neutrals/earth tones are cream, soft tan, and sage green.
😀love these colors – the rust top is the best!
I found it 🙂 Thanks for showing such interesting color options.
😊love the orange cable knit sweater