Find out what’s hot this summer, as NWQ travels to the shores of Lake Geneva for its summer fashion shoot.
After a long, dreary spring, a warm, sunny summer is a real treat, and it’s all the better when filled with exciting new fashions and bright new styles. With vacations, barbeques, weddings and other events to attend, summer is a great time to experiment with new trends and build on your favorite wardrobe pieces.
It’s essential to find some cool, comfy clothes to wear when the weather turns humid and hot. Choose lightweight pieces that don’t need to be layered. When trying on clothes, be sure that they’re not too tight or too big; both can leave you sweaty and uncomfortable.
Dresses are essential to any summer wardrobe, no matter your shape or size. If you’re petite, try a flirty, short ruffled dress. Floral patterns go great with bright-colored sandals and simple accessories. If you’re curvy, try a flowing dress in a hot color such as coral or teal. Ruched fabric in the stomach area hides flaws and flatters curves. Add a pair of gladiator-inspired sandals and bangle bracelets for a complete look. If you have an athletic build, try a sheath dress and pair it with ballet flats and a tiny belt cinched at the waist. Embellished necklaces look chic with sheath dresses and give you the versatility to create different looks.
Experiment with bright colors; coral is the hot hue this summer. Bubble skirts are great for just about everyone. They’re fun and they allow for many styling options. Pair a patterned bubble skirt with a colored tank top and add a cropped jacket for a night out. Or, try a neutral bubble skirt with a loose-fitting silk cami or tank and add a cardigan for a romantic look.
Shorts are the obvious choice of everyday casual wear for the summer season. Avoid too-tight pairs that cause uncomfortable bunching and overlarge ones that sag. For a picnic or barbeque, try a pair of khaki shorts with linen top and gladiator sandals. White shorts are all the rage this season and can be paired with anything, from a flirty top and cute pumps or wedges on date night, to a simple tank and hat for daytime. Denim is not your only choice, but it’s still a good one. If you feel most comfortable in denim shorts, remember that simple works best. Avoid overly-distressed denim or denim with holes; seriously consider a darker wash with cuffs.
Whether we’re ready to face it or not, it’s swimsuit season, so flatter your figure with the perfect suit. If you’re petite, try a higher-cut bottom to elongate your figure. Substitute a thin stringed top for a thicker band to make your body appear more proportionate. If you have more of an athletic or tall build, try a suit with ruffles or a mild horizontal pattern. A little flare adds curves and accentuates your toned areas. Avoid extremely busy patterns, which will make you look boxy. If you have a curvy figure, wear a paneled or ruched one-piece suit.
Mixing a darker bottom and printed top will create a flattering silhouette. If you are pear-shaped or curvy, it’s best to avoid boy shorts or hip-hugger bottoms. Invest in a few cover-ups. Three is the perfect number: One terry cloth, one linen and one with a fancier look, embellished for a pool party.
Don’t be afraid to experiment this season. Why not try a fedora? They’re fashionable, they protect your face from sun and they disguise beach hair.
For your feet, try a fancy pair of wedge sandals. They’re great for summer because they can be worn with dresses, shorts or your favorite denim. Try a strappy wedge in your favorite color or pattern or a sleek, embellished wedge. Like heels, wedges add height. Unlike heels, they’re better for your feet.
Feet aside, try a tribal print! They come in a variety of colors, both neutral and bold. Wear a tribal print sundress or a tribal print tank with neutral shorts. The unique print should be the center of your ensemble, worn with simple, neutral accessories.
For a romantic look, try a silk poncho blouse or peasant top; these loose-fitting tops flatter any figure. For a fun girls’ night out, try a floral print poncho blouse with a tan tank top, your favorite denim and your wedges. Add a side braid for a Bohemian feel or a fedora for an edgier look.
For a romantic night out, try a black peasant top with a black silk cami underneath, with your favorite skinny jeans or white shorts and a great pair of peep toes. Chandelier earrings complete the look.
Let your summer fashionista come out to play in these fleeting summer months! ❚