It’s summer. It’s hot. And your main focus may be keeping cool, while you’re doing everything you have to do. And you can’t even think about wearing anything besides a tank top & shorts. But here’s the deal – you can still feel stylish and keep your cool at the same time. Hot weather and great style are not mutually exclusive. In fact, they work together really well.
When it’s hot and you’re wearing less clothes, what you actually choose to wear becomes even more important. You can’t depend on layers to make your outfits interesting. You aren’t tossing a third piece over a t-shirt and jeans to add style points to your look. You’re not depending on a compelling mix of multiple items to express yourself. You may just be wearing a top and shorts. Or a t-shirt and skirt. Or a simple dress.
So, when you’re wearing less clothes, how can you still feel stylish? Here are 3 ways to do it (without even having to change your clothes!).
WEAR A BELT
The one thing that’s missing from many of my clients’ wardrobes are belts (I should probably write an article about that). Or, if they do have one, it’s just basic black. Or it’s the belt that came with a dress that they got rid of years ago. But when you’re wearing less clothes, your accessories become super important. And that’s where belts come into the picture.
Think about it – if you’re just in a t-shirt and shorts. And you want to add a little something (that doesn’t make you hotter), a belt is the perfect addition. And there are multiple options to choose from. You can go for color (like a yellow belt with a white t and denim shorts). Or print (like a leopard print belt over a black dress). Or something shiny (like a metallic belt with just about anything). If those aren’t your style, a well-made, textured belt in a neutral color can still make you look more pulled together. And besides being a tool enhance your outfit, belts are a great way to balance your proportions. Check this out for a few other ways to balance your proportions.
If you’re still not confident in how (or when) to wear belts, start with items that already come with a belt. You know that cute dress that came with a matching fabric belt? Ditch the matching belt and upgrade to a leather belt for a more dynamic and expensive look (and cut off those pesky little belt loops, too). If you have a pair of paper bag waist shorts – trade the belt that came with them for a different belt in a similar width. It will make your shorts feel completely fresh for this year.
The simple step of adding a belt (when you’re front or full tucking your top) adds a little polish to an easy summertime look.
Is a black t/denim skirt/black sandals the only outfit you can think of? Add a snake (or leopard) print belt for noticeable style points.
Quick tip: when you’re wearing a belt with a dress, you might need a smaller size belt (than the one you wear with jeans) - since it hits at a higher spot on your waist.
WEAR SANDALS
If I could eradicate one clothing item from the face of the world, it might be rubber flip-flops. Because I don’t really know when you truly need them (outside of being at the beach or pool). So, how about we trade up to real sandals?
If flip-flops are your go-to, sandals are an immediate upgrade. And like belts, there are tons of options to choose from (even more, actually). There are different shapes and colors and prints and textures and fabrications. And styles with details and embellishments – it’s almost like jewelry for your feet! And they’re available at all different prices. So, you can easily find ones that are right for you.
If you’re not into sandals, don’t worry. Here are 5 shoes that work just as well with shorts and skirts and summery dresses. And you can wear them from spring all the way to early fall.
You don’t need to abandon the flip-flop shape to upgrade your sandals. The same silhouette feels much more intentional in leather or suede.
Metallic sandals are a go-with-anything option for warm weather. They’re just as versatile as other neutrals, but with more presence.
When your outfit is all neutral, a pop color sandal is the perfect choice. You’ll be surprised as to how much it goes with!
WEAR JEWELRY
Some of my clients love jewelry. They have expansive collections and always add pieces to their outfits. I even show them how to build their outfits around jewelry (click here for a few examples). And then I have clients who really don’t think about jewelry. They either have a few pieces that they put on every single day. Or they don’t wear jewelry at all.
But I’ll say it again – when it’s hot. And you’re wearing less clothes. What you are wearing makes a big difference. And jewelry is a great way to kick your outfit up a notch, without putting on any more clothes.
No, I’m not saying you need to grab a statement necklace. Or big dangly earrings. Or chunky bracelets. What I am saying is that deliberate choices with visible jewelry can add a lot to your look. So, it’s something to think about in warm weather (possibly more than at other times of year).
A plain black t can be boring. But add some layered necklaces and it suddenly feels like an outfit.
I said you didn’t have to wear a statement necklace. But you can if you want to! See how it totally elevates this outfit for a summer date night.
Even when you’re running around in a t-shirt dress & sneakers, jewelry adds that little something that makes it look like you got dressed on purpose.
BONUS TIP: If you’re willing to move beyond accessories into more purposeful choices with your summer outfits, how about playing with color? If you love bold color, go for it. Wear all the brights and attention-getting combinations (here are some color combos that I love). And if you prefer neutrals, choose them intentionally. As a little inspiration, here’s an Instagram post with tips on wearing black in the summer. And here’s an article all about my favorite summer neutral.
Will you pay more attention to your accessory choices in the summer? Or even start wearing ones you don’t wear as often in cooler weather? Let me know - and ask any questions in the comments.
Have you thought about these simple style upgrades before? Or are you looking to upgrade your style overall (throughout the year)? If you’re curious about what it’s like to work with a stylist to feel more intentional with your wardrobe year round, read this for a quick overview of how I work with new clients. And if you’d like more information (or to schedule a free consultation), click here.