Summer, we see you over there on the horizon! But can you please get here faster? For many of us, summer represents so many things we live for over the other three quarters of the year. Adventures, sunshine, beach, warmth, picnics, BBQs and a new season of fashion to add to our wardrobes.
In preparation for the upcoming sun-drenched season, here’s an exploration of some wardrobe staples to consider if you’re looking to upgrade your style. Think light, flowy dresses, kaftans, matching sets, woven hats and a sweet dose of vibrant color.
Bold, Patterned Dresses
The must-have Summer dress tends to change year by year. This year we’re seeing bold, bright, colorful patterned dresses. Color is being celebrated so wonderfully in all aspects of fashion from shoes to makeup, and it’s a wonderful thing!
Look for dresses which fuse a relaxed, breezy fit with a vibrant and eye-catching print. A soft crinkle cotton dress offers the softness and breathability of cotton with a relaxed fit, tie neckline and ¾ sleeves for sun coverage. With a bright, multi-hued pattern, you can embrace the joy of Summer. Plus, crinkle cotton is so low-maintenance there’s no ironing required.
If bright colors and multi hues are not quite for you, you can still embrace the eye-catching pattern aesthetic with more downplayed styles. Make a more gentle statement with a simple, brushstroke-style pattern using colors like blues and whites to remind you of the warm ocean waters.
Prints are a great way to add interest to your look without adding extra details. You can keep the overall ensemble simple and easy, while still packing a major style punch with color and pattern.
Cold-Shoulder Kaftans (with a little animal print thrown in)
The Kaftan is a Summer must-have every year. It’s got that amazing ability to go from swimwear cover-up to a perfectly lovely brunch or BBQ outfit. But this year, the kaftan is getting a makeover by opening up the shoulders for an extra peep of skin and a dressier aesthetic.
Cold shoulders are flattering on absolutely everyone, as they show off the best part of the arm while concealing the sometimes-challenging underarm area anyone over 16 years old generally experiences.
A Kaftan with a super flattering low V neckline helps to elongate the neck and frame the face. The kaftan drapes over the torso with a relaxed fit, but doesn’t flare or add extra bulk at the skirt, giving you a tall and clean silhouette. Best of all, the sleeves are cut out from shoulder to hem, with a cute tie detail.
Because the pattern is bright and bold, you really only need to add shoes and you’re done. Maxi kaftans are great for Summer weekend and casual wear when you feel like “slouching around” but still want to look fresh and chic.
Short or knee-length kaftans can easily be dressed up for evening/going-out wear with the right heels and earrings. If you’re looking for a shorter kaftan which doesn’t look like a beach coverup when you’re out having a cocktail, look for versatile patterns. Black, animal print (leopard prints are big this year!) or neutral-toned abstract prints are great.
Woven Hats
Protecting your face from the sun is always in fashion, but what you cover it with…that’s the variable. This Summer, we’re seeing textured hats with natural-toned weave.
Wide brimmed floppy hats are ideal for beach lounging, countryside dining and whenever you need some high coverage and perhaps a touch of mystery. A wide brim provides excellent face protection while the natural aesthetic of straw or similar materials, adds a touch of a bohemian vibe that will transport you to a tropical island no matter where you are.
If you’re after something a little more sporty, you can’t go wrong with a visor. It’s less of a commitment but gives the protection you need. Great for running and walking on those warm Summer days.
Matching Linen Sets
Linen has swept the fashion world in a big way. Brands and customers have cottoned-on to the breathable, soft and durable nature of linen, ushering stunning linen collections onto the shelves. Let’s take it a step further. Let’s match our linen!
A matching set isn’t just for the office or the gym, it can be perfect for casual, going out and weekend leisure if the cut and fabric choices are on point. Matching linen top and bottom sets are effortlessly chic and look completely put together without being formal.
A great way to approach the matching linen set style is to find a shade you love and simply pick a top and bottom. Voila. No need to find a ready-made set. Find another top and bottom in a complementary shade and you can have the option of mixing tones when matching isn’t your vibe.
