Summer can pose a style challenge – soaring temperatures mean that you’d like to wear less, but you still need to be dress-code-appropriate at work, and cover what you want the rest of the time.  So I helped a few clients navigate their warm weather wardrobes with a Summer Style Refresh – outfits I’ve created specifically for them to get through the season in style.

Recently I had the pleasure of working with Ginger – a mom of three who works from home part of the time, and travels for work, too – so she’s consistently pulled in a few directions.  Ginger needs summer outfits that function for her job (at home, in the office, or on the road), as well as for fun summer festivities.  At 5’3”, Ginger is on the petite side, with a well-proportioned pear-shaped frame, and also likes to be appropriately covered.  So what I focus on with Ginger is creating fun looks with versatile pieces that can transition from work to weekend, that enhance her assets and make her feel like the stylish mom-on-the-go that she is.

GINGER’S DAY AT THE OFFICE LOOK

Versatile separates are the hallmark of a professional working woman’s wardrobe – but that doesn’t mean you can’t be feminine (gotta love florals!), or wear a color (or two!).

Why did I choose this look for Ginger?  These are pieces that do double or triple duty – the floral cardigan is an ideal piece for business travel, and looks amazing over a solid dress; ankle pants work with flats or heels; and the flesh-toned pumps go with any color skirt and give Ginger legs for days.  And what about that bag??!!

GINGER’S WORKING FROM HOME LOOK

A day at home is not an excuse to wear sweats – grab some colored jeans, a printed top, and a neutral third piece – and then you don’t need to ponder an outfit when a friend calls for lunch, or you need to run a file to the office.

Why did I choose this look for Ginger?  Firstly, she looks amazing in blue.  Secondly, this look is a simple elevation of a typical at home outfit – the pants are essentially jeans, the blouse is a dressier version of a t-shirt, and the cropped cardigan is so much smarter than a hoodie.

GINGER’S DATE NIGHT LOOK

Date night is the quintessential excuse to crank up your style – especially if you spend the day at home and/or chasing your kids around.  And that doesn’t always mean a dress and sky-high heels – a lovely blouse, black pants and sassy wedges do the trick just as well.

Why did I choose this look for Ginger?  Ginger likes to cover her arms – so an open-shoulder top is a stellar way to show some skin.  From there, it’s simple – classic black pants, a go-with-everything summer bag and eye-catching pendant.  And Ginger loves shoes – so I’m always on the look out for ones with pizazz!

GINGER’S POOL PARTY LOOK

When it’s crazy hot and you’re spending time outside, it’s easy to be style-stressed.  But nothing is better than a colorful knit dress – it’s crazy comfortable, and works for lunch with the girls or as a cute pool cover-up.

Why did I choose this look for Ginger?  A straightforward fit and flare silhouette is essentially made for her pear-shaped figure, but doesn’t show too much skin.  And the hues are great for her coloring – so I emphasized the palette with accessories that play off the water-toned theme.

GINGER’S SUMMER WEDDING GUEST LOOK

Summer weddings usually aren’t as formal as other seasons – so instead of cocktail attire, a fun and flirty dress fully fits the occasion.

Why did I choose this look for Ginger?  The color and shape of the dress suit Ginger to a ‘t’, and since Ginger loves shoes, I couldn’t resist adding a second fun color to the look.