By Keeva Stratton
Whether it’s barbies in the park, after work drinks, or a svelte cocktail affair, looking fresh and fabulous for so many occasions can make your wardrobe weary- particularly if you outed your best outfits over Christmas and the New Year.
So, how do you survive the sizzling days and balmy nights while maintaining superb style? It’s simple with these five fab, yet flexible pieces:
1. The perfect summer dress
Light, bright and equally wearable over bathers or at the bar, a well selected dress is sure to impress.
Look for breathable fabrics and bold prints with a cut and length that compliments your figure. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Watercolour dresses use a palette inspired by summer’s cool blue oceans, or the fiery summer sun. Capture the spirit of summer with Australian Designer Rodeo Show’s Galaxy Dress, or check out Supre`s Aquarelle Singlet Dress for a cheaper, yet cheerful, option.
Vintage tea dresses aren’t just for grandma. They’re a quirky, fun and stylish summer solution. General Pants Co. has a great range including this dress from Miss Brown, or, for a softer, more feminine touch, try Sportsgirl’s Garden Floral Tea Dress (pictured left).
For an edgier summer look, animal prints will work in any habitat. Witchery’s Strappy Animal Print Dress, or this Flamingo Tunic by Mimosa (pictured at the top of the article), are just purrfect!
2. A Beautiful Blouse
From floral to frills, a soft flowing summer blouse speaks of the season and brings to life any of your simple skirts, shorts or pants. Tuck them in for a more formal occasion, or wear them out and free for a casual soiree.
Romance has returned with this Lace Tee from Sportsgirl, or Topshop’s Pintuck Frill Zip blouse.
Enjoy fanciful frills with a Ruffle top, care of Secret Squirrel clothing (pictured left). Or French Connection’s Bomb Cotton Ruffle Shirt.
Or for the bolder amongst us, try the Don’t Ask Amanda Sport Ruffle Cami available at General Pants Co.
3. Sexy shorts
Gone are the days when shorts came a distant second to skirts in the categories of sexy and stylish. This year, if you’ve got the legs, shorts are a great way of showing it. And, with everyone from Leighton Meester to Gwen Stefani embracing them, why aren’t you?
Here are a few short options:
Casual and comfortable, denim shorts encapsulate the relaxed summer vibe. Perfect for picnics and barbecues, try the Gigi roll-up short from Jeanswest, or for a ripped look, One Teaspoon’s Salvaged Recycled short could be just the go.
Proving shorts can ooze sophistication are the many styles of tailored shorts, such as the cute, yet classy, Baby Twill short by Witchery (pictured left), or Sportscraft’s Striped Cuff linen short.
4. A stylish singlet
Our summers get hot – but thankfully, staying cool without compromising on style can be achieved with these sassy singlets.
For a chic daytime look, try the Lace Insert Cami from Witchery; make a loud impression with this Lips Swing tank from Lauren Moshi (Pictured left– as worn by celebrities such as Paris Hilton). Or add even more heat to your summer with this Beaded Backless singlet from The Cassette Society.
5. A summer scarf
Scarves have become a winter staple, but thanks to some light delights, we can now use scarves in summer as an easy way to add variety and colour to any outfit.
Add sweet sophistication with a Honeycomb scarf from Tolani (pictured left), gain a relaxed refinement with this Patchwork scarf from Jag, or, if preppy is your preference, a Signature O scarf from Oroton will make any simple outfit look oh so chic.
Want more style tips?
See celebrity stylist Jane Johnston’s latest blogs.
Or our article on Summer Fashion essentials.
