12 Ways To Elevate Simple Summer Outfits
Summer offers an opportunity to wear vibrant and simple clothes that make the most of the weather outside. Whether you’re dressing for brunch, a trip to the beach, heading to a ballgame or going shopping, it’s easy to look your best in these great summer outfit ideas.
1. Celebrate Simplicity
In the heat of summer, the chicest outfits are unfussy and easygoing. A women’s crew neck t-shirt is a classic foundation for a simple outfit that you can wear anytime. Pair this wardrobe staple with jeans, a graphic midi-skirt or linen shorts for the perfect laid-back look. Add elegance to your look with a strappy or braided Italian leather sandal. A coordinating handbag and trendy shades will give your look instant style credibility.
2. Mix and Match
Stocking your wardrobe with versatile basics you can mix and match is a great way to prepare for the season. By investing in a few high-quality dresses, shorts and skirts, you can create a bevy of new looks just by switching up your tops and accessories.
Cropped black linen palazzo pants can work with everything from a crop top to a ruffled blouse to a women’s v-neck tee. These same tops could be dressed up or down with a flowing silk or denim skirt. Thoughtfully coordinating your jewelry and accessories will take your style to the next level, and you’ll never lack something to wear.
3. Dress Up in Jewelry
In the summertime, the right jewelry can take your look from drab to luxe. Shiny and colorful earrings, necklaces, bracelets, watches and anklets will add personality to your look. Whether you choose big, bright statement earrings that draw attention to your face or layer-beaded gold and woven bracelets for a Bohemian look, great jewelry will add richness and flash to your outfit.
4. Carry a Great Bag
A woven straw or cord bag with a wooden handle can complement your warm-weather outfit. From a mini bucket bag to an oversized tote, a great bag can be the focal point of your look. When you want to feel more dressed up, choose a sleek, tailored, small-to-medium satchel, crossbody bag or clutch in a primary-colored or white leather.
5. Slip on Some Snazzy Summer Shoes
Most summer outfits will look snazzy if you pair them with on-trend slides in a bold or neutral color. If you want to cover your toes, a pair of bright, embellished mules can make your outfit pop without much fuss. Trendy vintage tennis shoes in perforated leather or pristine white canvas can add a preppy, energetic touch to a casual look.
6. Top It Off With a Hat
A floral bucket or a demure wide-brimmed hat is a must for keeping the sun off your face, so choose a few options that will complement the outfits you wear most. A handwoven straw Panama hat is a refined, luxurious choice that feels relaxed, not uptight. To make your style shine, let your hat be the finishing touch of a totally coordinated ensemble.
7. Stay Cool in Shades
Sunglasses are a summer essential that immediately draws attention to your face and sends a message about your personal taste. Wire-rimmed round or aviator glasses will always look polished with dressy and casual outfits. On-trend shades will show you’re part of the moment. Whether you choose tinted lenses or brightly colored frames, great sunglasses will help you feel relaxed and put together.
8. Pick Clothes That Fit
To keep your look streamlined and fresh, choose clothes with structure and soft tailoring designed to fit your frame. While avoiding too-tight clothes is a good idea, a dress with a wrapped, tied or darted waist or an easygoing linen blazer can look intentional, dressed-up and cool. Define your shape or highlight your legs or collarbone with clever cuts and smock details that can define your shape while keeping you comfortable.
9. Dress for Comfort
You’ll look cutest in airy, light and seasonally appropriate clothes. Since you’re more likely to sweat or retain water in hot, humid temperatures, stay away from anything that feels binding. Stock up on women’s basic tees you can throw on anytime with a tie-waisted bottom. Clothes that stick to your skin will look unrefined, so wear elastic-waist, wide-legged pants or a flowing midi-dress that moves in the breeze.
10. Embrace the Details
Well-placed, tasteful cutouts and embellishments like corded trim, ruffles and lace can add special touches to your summer looks. Thoughtfully placed piping in a contrasting color can make a pair of shorts look luxe and vacation-ready. A lace-edged dress will look feminine and appropriate when you’re out for lunch or coffee. To keep your look upscale, pick one design element that stands out so that you don’t overwhelm the eye.
11. Color Coordinate Your Look
For an energetic summer look, wear a multi-hued patterned top that picks up the color of your skirt, shorts or pants. You could also color-coordinate your belt with your handbag or your shoes. Keep the look relaxed and avoid being too matchy-matchy.
12. Mind Your Hair and Makeup
Summer is the natural, minimal makeup season, but you’ll still want to put your best face forward. A little waterproof mascara and a bright lip gloss will keep you looking fresh and polished. Manicured nails will show that you enjoy taking time to look your best, and a pedicure is a must if you’re planning to wear cute sandals.
It’s Easy To Elevate Your Summer Style
With a little attention, it’s easy to make simple summer outfits look sophisticated. Bold colors, thoughtful details, luxurious materials and on-trend accessories will take your look up a notch. When you take the time to enhance your style, you’ll surely enjoy your time in the sun.
