With the long, hot days of summer upon us, it’s finally time to hang up your thick scarves and say goodbye to your wooly jumpers. This is the time to refresh your style and create a capsule wardrobe that welcomes you on the sunny days and balmy nights of this hottest season.
As the mercury rises, dressing stylishly yet comfortably during the summer season can pose a bit of a challenge. The balance between looking chic and feeling comfortable is crucial, but it doesn't have to be a struggle. From choosing breathable fabrics to the right accessories, here are some tips to help you stay both stylish and comfortable during the hottest months of the year.
The heat and humidity can create discomfort and irritation, making any outfit feel awkward and unstylish. To help you solve these challenges we’ve outlined some tips to ensure your summer wardrobe maximizes comfort and style.
Choose Lighter Colors
Light colors are good at reflecting light and poor at absorbing heat, making them the perfect option for the summer. Not only will they keep you cool, but also work well to create an effortlessly stylish and relaxed summer look.
From a classic all-white outfit that exudes timeless elegance and class to a beautiful pastel ensemble that adds a pop of color to your day, opting for lighter colors can instantly help you feel more relaxed and summery.
Opt for Breathable and Loose and Flowy Fits
Overly tight and restrictive clothing can be stifling in the summer and can cause irritation, body odor, and sweating, as well as physical discomfort. When it comes to summer dressing, the fabric of your clothing is key, opt for loose-fitting fabrics which are breathable and allow air to circulate freely around your body such as cotton, silk, rayon, polyester, and these linen outfits from Quince.
Moisture-wicking fabrics are also advisable as they pull moisture away from your skin and take it to the surface of the fabric where it dries quickly. This can help avoid excessive sweating and embarrassing odors.
Balancing Act
Keeping cool on hot days can be a challenge and the temptation may be to bare it all. However, choosing outfits that balance the amount of skin you show not only keeps you protected from the harmful rays of the sun but also adds a touch of elegance to your overall appearance.
For example, balance out a pair of shorts with a covered blouse or a strappy tank top with a maxi skirt. Whether you choose to reveal more of your upper body or your lower body, by following this rule you can curate outfits that will keep you cool whilst looking chic and summery throughout the season.
Accessorize Smartly
Summer is a wonderful time of year to express your flair for fashion and accessorize your outfits with colorful and eye-catching items. Jewelry is a great way to accessorize in the summer, however, often the heat can make rings, necklaces, and bangles feel uncomfortable and oppressive to wear as they heat up and cling to the skin.
To avoid these issues, swap your chunkier items for more delicate pieces such as thin pearl necklaces, beaded bracelets, and lightweight earrings like a pair of hoops or colored feathers. Summer accessories also provide functionality as well as a fashion statement to any outfit. Whether you prefer aviators, cat-eyes, or wayfarers, opt for some eyewear that offers UV protection and a wide-brimmed sun hat to instantly elevate your look.
Go for Natural Makeup
Opt for a minimalist approach to your makeup during the summer. Overdoing it may result in melting makeup, which is never a good look. Tinted moisturizers with SPF, lip balms, and waterproof mascara can help you maintain a fresh, natural look all day long.
Footwear Matters
Don’t overlook the importance of comfortable summer footwear. Opt for open-toed sandals or breathable sneakers for daytime use. Remember, your feet may swell in the heat, so ensure your shoes are a comfortable fit. In terms of style, there's a multitude of options ranging from strappy sandals to colorful espadrilles that can add a pop to any outfit.
Options of shoes with good ventilation:
- Sandals: These are a classic summer staple. Go for flat strappy ones for casual outings and save the heeled sandals for dressier occasions.
- Sneakers: Opt for breathable, lightweight sneakers. Many brands offer designs with summer-friendly materials, perfect for long walks or running errands.
- Espadrilles: A summer classic, espadrilles offer both comfort and style. They come in various designs – flat, wedged, closed, or open-toed – catering to everyone's taste.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
While this may not seem like a fashion tip, staying hydrated is crucial during the summer. Drinking enough water keeps your skin looking fresh and radiant, contributing to your overall stylish appearance.
With these tips, you can feel confident in embracing the summer, ensuring you look stylish and cool throughout the season.
