Summer is a time of relaxing, embracing the outdoors, late nights with a bit of breeze and brunching with your pals. But when it comes to getting creative with your outfits, it can get a little tricky. You don’t have all the freedom to layer and bundle like the past few months. But don’t worry — summer comes with opportunities to play with fun feature pieces and a summer palette that shows off your tan skin.
Athletic:
It’s a Saturday morning in June, time for a jog in the park. The natural reaction is to grab an old tee and some sweatpants. Before committing this fashion faux pas, take a moment to build a repertoire of athletic clothes. They can be easy, fun and often cheap. When it comes to athletic outfits, you can play a bit more with patterns and color. Play up the tan skin by going for bright pinks or oranges. Find an athletic top with a crisscrossed back. This will hold you in and look cute at the same time. Contrast a solid top with a fun patterned pair of leggings. In a navy checked pattern, a grey weave, or even a pop of color, leggings are a great way to bring a little flare and attention to your impressive workout grind. These simple changes in wardrobe will motivate you and make working out a little more fun.
Work/ Internship:
You finally landed an internship in a big city. There are plenty of ways to fight the heat, look “business casual” and still turn some heads as you walk the streets of your new city. The keys to achieving this are simple: color, structure, and a hint of intrigue. Start with a basic piece. To achieve a professional look, a blazer or pencil skirt is vital. Dip into J.Crew but mix it up with something funky and different. So, pair a khaki blazer with a floral top in a pastel color scheme. This pairing brings in a hint of summer fun without taking away from the professional look. Pair these two pieces with colored, lightweight pants, and you have a perfect foundation for an outfit. Add a few Alex and Ani bangles or a pair of statement Kate Spade earrings and you are set. If you’re not feeling a blazer, slip on a slimming pencil skirt with horizontal navy and white strips or a pastel polka dot pattern. On top, you just need something simple: a pale shell sweater or simple button-up. This is where accessories will make or break your outfit. Wear a fun statement necklace and a bright pair of pumps. Don’t stray from color. Use it to make your outfit scream “summertime happiness”, even in the drab office.
Day in the City:
It’s your day off and you’re ready to explore the city, go to the boardwalk or hang out in your town running errands. Two things are key to a day like this: iced coffee and a bit of fashion risk. Try out two summer-ready outfits for a sunny day like this: a maxi skirt or a romper. Some people are unreasonably afraid of both, but they are two of the most comfortable, flattering pieces to wear during this time of year. When it comes to a maxi skirt, try out a patterned navy look. Darker colors on the bottom can really contrast with a white short-sleeved crop top. Don’t worry about showing tummy because most maxi skirts come in a high-waisted cut. Pick a romper with a lighter pattern. Some come in solid colors with lacey, flowy structure, while some are stiff with a floral pattern in shades varying from sweet pastels to edgy reds. Whatever you choose, make sure it fits with your personality and body type. Shops like TopShop, Asos and Urban Outfitters are your prime spots for this look. If it’s chillier, throw on a jean jacket or long sweater. You’ll get a flawless boho feel while staying comfortable and put together, especially with the perfect pair of jeweled sandals and elaborate earrings.
Date Night:
A date night calls for simpler outfits. Streamlined looks and solids create a sexy night look. So, select a silky black camisole. J.Crew and Madewell are the place to go for these. They have just the right amount of flow while still providing structure. Stay away from necklaces to show off your tan shoulders. Dark jeans – skinny, of course – will make your legs look extra long. Now, throw on a charcoal pair of strappy wedges to give them an extra mile. Loosely curl your hair and pick a fun pair of earrings with a little pop of color as well as a metallic clutch. Throw on your best gloss and a smile, and you are set.
Basics, florals, flowy materials, and confidence are all you need for a perfect summer wardrobe to go along with the amazing memories you’ll make in these striking outfits.