I don’t think I need to tell you that’s it’s been one hot summer so far. And when it’s hot, your style may be the last thing on your mind.
But I’ve got news for you. You can still feel stylish and pulled together when it’s hot. No, you may not be able to depend on the same strategies that keep you feeling fashionable in fall and winter. But there are ways to create cute and polished outfits that make sense when the temperatures rise.
Check out 3 strategies to help you feel stylish for the next couple of months. Because no matter what anyone says – summer is not even half over. So, you might as well plan to enjoy your summer style for a bit longer.
LIGHTWEIGHT THIRD PIECES
If you’ve followed me for a while, you know how much I love a third piece. A third piece is a jacket or cardigan or blazer, and it’s one of the most straightforward ways to pull together your look. Third pieces are a must-have in a modern, versatile wardrobe (click here to see my summer must-have list). But how do you wear a third piece when it’s hot? Focus on your fabrics.
The most elementary way to beat the heat in style is with your fabric choices. Leave the wool and cashmere and leather for fall fashion, and go for cotton and linen (and similar) for summer. You’re basically looking for lighter weights and breathability - and the same rules apply when you’re looking for a summer-weight third piece.
Why even bother with third pieces in the summer? I’ve got two reasons outside of helping to pull together your look - coverage and air conditioning. Lightweight third pieces can provide coverage when you want some sun protection (or when you don’t want to bare your shoulders in a strappy top). And they’re pretty crucial when you’re going from a sweltering sidewalk to a chilly restaurant.
A few of my favorite lightweight third pieces are:
Super lightweight cardigans – you can find cotton or linen blends that are airy and almost tissue-thin.
Linen third pieces – these can be anything from a structured blazer to a relaxed jacket. (A white blazer is one of my favorite summer third pieces – here’s why I love it.)
Button-down shirts – you may not have thought of a button-down shirt as a third piece, but it’s the perfect item to throw over a tank and shorts. Wear it open like a jacket and you’ve just converted a cold weather underlayer to a warm weather over-layer. Just remember to keep your fabrics light (like a white linen or blue chambray).
COLOR/PATTERN/TEXTURE/SHINE
Yes, color/pattern/texture/shine is a big category. But the reason I lumped them together is this – when it’s hot and you’re wearing less clothes in general, the rest of your outfit needs to work a little harder. And there are a few ways that you can do this.
COLOR
I always suggest being intentional with how you wear color. But specifically in hot weather, it’s a great way to add interest to your outfits without adding any layers. For major impact, go for interesting color combinations (check this out for some of my favorite combos). For a more subtle vibe, stick with monochromatic neutrals (these are my tips for monochromatic dressing). And if playing with color is new to you, start with a pop color (click for my advice on how to get started).
PATTERN
Prints and patterns are probably the easiest way to add dimension to your look. Instead of choosing a solid, just choose a print item as the focus of your outfit. And the best part? You can totally keep it in your style wheelhouse. Whether you’re a fan of bold, large scale prints or subtle stripes (or something in between), it’s a great way to beat the heat in style. Here’s some advice on using a print as the focal point of your look.
TEXTURE
Texture is something that you may not have thought about, but it’s an ideal option to make your outfit more interesting. Especially if color isn’t your thing. And prints are just a bit out of your comfort zone. Here are a couple of fun textures that are just made for summer.
Eyelet – this is a woven fabric that basically has holes in its tonal geometric or floral design. So it feels perfect for warm weather.
Crochet – I think sweaters are often forgotten about in warm weather. And I’m not talking long sleeve heavy sweaters – I’m talking about lightweight blends and open weave options like crochet. You can go for an oversized pullover crochet sweater for a beachy vibe, or a slim fitting crochet tank for some subtle sexiness.
SHINE
If you’re a fan of neutrals, shine might just be your thing. Here’s why – gold is basically shiny beige and silver is basically shiny grey. So, you’re still playing with neutral colors, but you’re raising the style volume. And by shine, I’m not asking you to wear a sequin top or glittery dress (although that’s totally fun!). I’m recommending a dose of shine, especially if your outfit is on the low key side. Like layered necklaces. Or a pewter belt. Or bronze sandals. Click here to see why I’m obsessed with metallics as a simple way to elevate your look.
ACCESSORIES
Especially if your clothing style is quieter. Or if you’re not into wearing a third piece. Or if you’re overwhelmed by the thought of adding color or pattern or texture or shine into your summer outfits. Accessories are a great way to add interest and dimension to your style.
Think about it – you can wear a white t-shirt and denim shorts. And add pop color flat. And a pair of fun earrings. And you just cranked up the style volume on your look.
And while simple accessories are nice, my advice is to choose accessories with presence – obvious items that add something to your look. So, yes, it’s a version of using color/pattern/texture/shine into your outfit – but it might feel more authentic to your personal style if you do it with accessories. (Check this out for 3 summer outfits I updated with accessories with presence.)
Are you ready to elevate your summer style? Let me know how you plan to do it (or any questions you may have) in the comments.
And if you’re not already getting my style advice on a regular basis, let’s fix that!
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