The clocks have gone forward, the daffodils have bloomed and those chunky knits have been put away for another year – summer is officially on the way. With the classic British weather being undoubtedly inconsistent it can be difficult to fathom what to buy/wear during the season. So, with careful research, my own knowledge and passion for fashion, I have created a guide of 5 carefully picked garments, which will have you dressing like a true style icon this summer.
1. Bright Denim
Summer is the season of colour, so replace those dreary dark wash denims and black skinnies for a lighter hue. Royal blue is big this year; the bright shade will provide a bold complement to vibrant blouses or a classic finish to nautical tees. For those whom are a little more daring opt for a head turning hue such as Duck Egg green or pastel pink.
2. Suitable shorts
When it hits about 23 degrees everyone seems to think they are in Barbados and suddenly shirts come off and legs are revealed. Everywhere you turn you’ll find people wandering around with their skin on show trying to soak up all the rays they can. No matter what your age or size, don’t exclude yourself from the opportunity to cool down and get a sunkissed glow; shorts are an absolute must for any summer closet. But, if you get the style wrong you could end up looking more like Liz McDonald from Coronation Street than Jennifer Aniston. Now call me rude but, I don’t care whether the gym is your second home; hotpant shorts should not be worn on anyone older than 30! I’m not saying if you have a cracking pair of pins you should be hiding them, what I’m saying is being able to remotely see any part of your bare bum is never going to be classy. If you have a slender frame, above the knee shorts are a great choice but, make sure they are long enough to only reveal your legs. For a more formal look try a tailored knee length design. If you’re of a more mature age or have a pear or apple shaped frame, stick with longer lengths and looser fits, a pair of ¾ length cargo shorts would be great during the day and chiffon style culottes for the evening.
3. The Patterned Top
This may seem like an obvious one however, choosing the right top can make or break an outfit. Summer tops tend to be vests for those who don’t have hang ups about their arms or ¾ length/short sleeves for those who do. On the S/S 2015 catwalks, pattern was highly prevalent so, if you only buy one t-shirt I would suggest it contains character. If you’re a pattern novice, then simple stripes are classic go-to to enhance any look although, if your stomach is your problem area horizontal stripes will only enhance this so, go for vertical. For those truly wanting to embrace the trend and make a striking statement, go big and go bold. Larger prints with contrasting colours are heavily featured in high street ranges, especially the increasing popular fruity fashions; lemon, strawberry and watermelon prints are the epitome of chic this year.
4. Complementary Sandals
Now if you’re anything like me getting your feet out is an absolute dreaded deed. Despite this fact I still own around 10 pairs, because if you want to create style envy during summer then you really can’t avoid them. The key here, as with everything else, is to pick style that suits you. If you have extremely primped feet with immaculate toes and a tan, the chances are you’ll be able to browse between every style there is and look fabulous in all. So make the most of it and invest in a standout style like knee high gladiators or a pair with an emblazoned T-bar. If however, you have almost translucent skin colouring, toes that look almost like fingers and stubby nails; the exact description of my own feet, then you most certainly don’t want attention drawn to them. While bold colours do tend to flatter paler skin tones more than neutral colours, feet complexes definitely pay homage to simple styles such as a slip-on sandal or a caged style that will hide them away. If a wide set foot is an issue then go for a classic toe post or a pair with a chunky ankle and across the foot strap. For those with beautifully dark skin, pattern and vibrant shades will always look wonderful. Heels are a sure bet for adding instant glamour, beware though lots of strutting around could result in blisters or sore heels so, if you’re planning on exploring, an embellished flat will offer the best of both worlds.
5. The Versatile Jacket
Being a typical cold blooded British woman, I am all too aware that even on warmer days, a jacket can be a saviour for those sudden downpours or cooler evenings. Practicality and style can combine so, don’t sacrifice a hood or waterproof fabric for that awesome print. Trust me when I say sodden style will never set trends. A neutral shade will always provide more versatility; try earthy tones such as beige or a pale grey. If you’d rather a bit more colour in your attire then try a khaki green, pale blue or salmon pink. My advice would be to consider the other clothes you have in your collection and pick a piece that will complement them i.e. if you have a lot of vibrant or patterned t-shirts in pinks, blues or yellows, a bold coral coat is sure to work well. If you’re more of a casual dresser, a parka will always provide a great finish or you prefer to dress smart consider a trench coat or waterfall style.
– H.E. Horton