Summer Wardrobe Essentials – What to Keep + What to Add to your Wardrobe
Yay to summer, time to slow down, sit by the pool, and enjoy every moment of sunshine.
However, if you’re like me who blasts the AC’s at home or in the car only to step outside and sweat like a pig; it can be a challenge to look stylish and stay cool.
The weather is a huge topic of discussion in New Jersey and most of us check the weather multiple times a day. Our days can max up to 100 degrees and our nights go down to 50s, so it’s important to have versatile pieces in your wardrobe in breathable fabrics.
Here’s what I recommend to keep and what to add to your summer wardrobe.
Keep a collection Cotton T-shirts
A cotton t-shirt is the ultimate summer staple, one that you’ll just need to update every year. I’m not talking about the free t shirt you got from your gym, I’m referring to a solid shirt that hits at your hip and can be tucked in or out. Buy them in neutral colors such as white, black and grey so they can be paired with everything from jeans, black pants, skirts and even underneath dresses. They are a really great way to balance a bright color or crazy print and can be dressed up or down.
Add in Jackets
Since moving to the suburbs almost 2 years ago I’ve tripled my outerwear collection. Why?
I’m constantly in a car, working in client’s homes, visiting stores and chauffeuring my children. When the AC is blasting in a restaurant or movie theater I’m always cold.
Great news is, there are many type of warm weather jackets: Blazers, bombers, moto, trenches, raincoats, vegan, leather, denim. Pick the style that can be worn with a majority of the items in your closet. You’ll want to pick one to wear over casual looks and another to wear for work.
Keep your Long Sleeve Tops
When switching your closet out, don’t put away all your long sleeve tops. Despite all the humidity, we still have lots of rain and often cool summer nights that dip to the 50s. These tops can be paired with shorts, jeans or skirts. Keep the lightweight cotton tops and sweatshirts.
When traveling I always take either a sweatshirt or lightweight sweater and a long sleeve top in black, white or navy. This way you have something to layer on from the airport to the beach.
Add in the Kimono
Since pajama dressing was introduced on the runway 2 years ago, kimono tops can be found everywhere. Originally a big trend in the 90s’ this look is a causal way to add a bohemian element to your summer looks. They work best when layered over jeans and a t-shirt, but also look great over a cotton dress or as a coverup to your swimsuit. Whether it's floral, stripes or solid, pick one that falls slightly below your knees, anything longer will engulf your frame. Also in most cases, you should size down from your normal size.
Expand your Stripe Dresses
I know, I know I can’t stop talking about stripes! Well here’s the deal, It’s the most versatile thing to add to your warm weather wardrobe. You can literally wear one for every occasion and the options are endless: cap sleeve, cold shoulder, shirtdress or fitted. Stick to cotton or linen fabrics so you can stay cool all summer long. Think of them as a base to your wardrobe and layer up. Go beyond the preppy look and recreate these outfit combos by adding combats boots, sneakers, stacked sandals, belts or mules.
Bonus Tip
The trick to dealing with varied temperatures is to strategically place these items in your car, at the office or by the front door. A little preparation ensures you look stylish and stay warm.
Want specific advice for your summer wardrobe? Setup a personal style strategy session with me.