4 Tips on Styling Summertime
I must admit, I don't really care for summer fashion. I don't like the heat, I am afraid of the sun, I squint too much, my make-up always melts off, things are too colourful, and I'm generally a sweaty person... so summer really isn't for me. I'm more of a spring and fall type of gal who's very happy in 15-20 degree weather in neutral shades.
Given my aversion to the summer, you can imagine that I'm also not really that comfortable or confident in summer style. Sometimes, though, you just have to bite the bullet and put on shorts when the heat is pushing 40C and the humidity is off the charts.
Here are four tips and ways I approach styling my summertime to feel better and a bit more breezy in my looks:
1. Stick To Loose, Breathable Fabrics
I find shorts to be tight, binding, and just introduce the opportunity for all kinds of sweat in all kinds of places, so I tend to avoid them. As much as I love my denim cut-offs, the SW-ASS factor they carry is real. So go for a looser, more breathable fit on those scorching summer days. I found these Wilfred Bertaud Shorts from Aritzia (linked below, currently on sale!) are exactly what I mean. They are flowy and fairly loose-fitting so I can catch a nice breeze in the heat, and the fabric is extremely lightweight and breathable. Look for pieces made of cotton, linen, rayon, silk or a blend of these to stay cool.
2. Mix Up Your Layering Game
I really hate to part with my leather over summer and often still sport it in 30+ degrees, but this is not without the odd stare or raised eyebrow. After I get a couple of these confused looks on the street, I know it's time to trade in the leather for a more breathable layer like a denim jacket, linen blazer or cotton button-up. Summer is about showing some skin, but I'm never without a layering piece to cover-up in the blazing hot sun (after all, covering up is your best SPF), or in case of a cool summer breeze off the beach.
3. Mix Up Your Seasons
Like I said before, I have separation anxiety from my favourite cool-weather staples. But good news! You can still hold onto your fall sweaters even in the summer. But as mentioned in Step One, choose your fabrics wisely. I would avoid materials like wool or cashmere, and instead look for cotton, rayon or silk-based blends that are not too heavy and wick moisture away. If you absolutely can't part with that fall sweater, try to go for a sleeveless style and layer it over a dress, skirt or with shorts to balance the look. You can also swap out your sandals for your favourite fall booties and pair them with shorts, a mini-skirt or a silk camisole dress for an edgy, mixed-season style.
4. Accessorize With Style & Smarts
I'm a huge advocate of sun safety for many reasons, so covering up properly when going out in the summer is always at the front of my mind. It doesn't mean I have to look like a bee-keeper or archaeologist when going out in the sun, though. When going outdoors, I almost always wear a hat and sunglasses. Find options that suit your style, but are also functional and protective. Be sure your sunnies offer UVA/UVB protection, and try to find a hat that will protect your face and neck in addition to your broad spectrum sunscreen.
Alright, with some tweaking, maybe I do kinda like summer after all. What are your favourite pieces to wear in the summer? Leave me a comment!