11 Cool Summer Style Tips for Hot Sizzling Days
We all love summer. Kids are out of school, workloads lighten up, vacations finally arrive, and summer parties abound. In keeping with the (fun, lighthearted, slightly frivolous) spirit of the season, we want to look carefree and fresh. The problem is, the weather can be so hot that we find ourselves wilting by mid-morning. This is why summer dressing is so challenging for most women. We may not be comfortable wearing barely-there shorts and skimpy tank tops just to stay cool, but neither do we want to hide beneath bulky layers of clothing.
Never fear. You can still maintain a classic and classy look no matter how high the thermometer rises. And if you’re ready to make some updates to your current summer wardrobe, you can grab a few new warm-weather essentials and even try out some new trends. In the end, you’ll beat the heat and achieve a look that’s both functional and fabulous. Keep reading for my tips that will help you feel cool and comfortable, and achieve sizzling hot style until Labor Day—and beyond!
Enjoy sun-kissed summer skin.
You don’t have to expose yourself to hot and harmful UV rays just to achieve a healthy-looking glow this summer. Instead, give sunless tanning a try. You can either pay a professional spray tanner to give your skin a kiss of color, or pick up an at-home self-tanning product. There are plenty of great products to choose from on the market now.
Make a splash with a new swimsuit.
The right swimsuit will make you feel like a million bucks. And now swimwear is available in a variety of cuts, so you can always find a suit that’s flattering and makes you feel confident and beautiful. A simple black one piece is a classic option that never goes out of style. Or if you’re feeling bold, choose a style you love in a bright color or fun print or pattern—animal print is a great choice. And remember, you can always wear your suit with a sarong until you’re ready to swim. They are perfect for strolling along the boardwalk after a day of sun and surf.
Get some luxurious new sleepwear.
If it’s been a while since you last updated your sleepwear, treat yourself to a summery new set. Whether you choose a classic long gown, a sleep tee, a chemise, or a two-piece pajama set, you’ll transform bedtime into a luxury that you can look forward to.
Embrace summer dresses.
A few lightweight dresses are a summertime must-have for staying cool and looking great. Dresses are easy, feminine, and perfect for any warm-weather occasion. This season you’ll find styles embellished with feminine ruffles in soft pastel tones as well as floral prints. Experiment with different styles and lengths until you find a few that work for you. Midi lengths are especially popular right now and look great with strappy sandals. Or choose a knee-length option for those hot summer nights.
Be white-hot in crisp white jeans.
White jeans are a timeless summer staple that can be dressed up or down. They make a great base to contrast against brightly colored tops of all kinds. Or, you can create a statement outfit by wearing an all-white ensemble. Give white jeans a try today and you’re guaranteed to create a fresh and effortlessly chic look.
Add a lightweight summer cardigan.
Dressing in very thin layers is a clever way to cover up a little without getting overheated. A lightweight cardigan is a great option because it is versatile enough to be paired with dresses, skirts, or pants. Cardigans come in especially handy when you step into a chilly airconditioned room or when it cools down at night. If long sleeves are totally inappropriate for your climate, try a ¾-length sleeve or short-sleeve version.
Cool off with capris.
A capri-length pant is a great option for when you want to stay cool but also maintain some coverage. They’re a great choice for vacation sightseeing and often come in lightweight, travel-friendly materials.
Try a bold new color.
Bold colors are showing up on the runways this year, among them ultra violet, lemon, and red. Even if you tend to stick mostly to more subdued hues, you can still have fun with color. To bring a little boldness to work, pair a red blouse with a classic black or charcoal pencil skirt. Or wear lemon-colored capris with a neutral tee on the weekend. If you decide to go all out in a boldly hued dress, balance the look by keeping your accessories more neutral. (Maybe save the statement jewelry for another day.)
Go for minimal makeup.
When temperatures are soaring, it’s not a great time to get heavy-handed with your makeup. So lighten up for the season by keeping your makeup routine as minimal as possible. Try wearing a swipe of mascara, a touch of blush, and a barely-tinted lip gloss. That’s all you need to look your most polished and stunning. My favorite lip gloss for summer is Yves Saint Laurent’s Glossy Stain Lip Color in #7 Corail Aquatique. This coral-tinted nude provides the perfect amount of color and shine for an effortless look.
Dazzle in lightweight, effortless jewelry.
For summer months, it’s best to lighten up your accessories as well. Focus on lighter jewelry such as crystals and choose other accessories in lighter hues to get you through the heat of summer.
Lighten up your summer bag.
Summer is the right time to trade your darker handbags with lighter and neutral versions. Swap out your heavy black or brown suede bag for either a metallic, pale leather, or neutral straw bag. This simple switch can go a long way to lighten up any summer outfit.
When the weather starts getting hotter, remember that summertime is all about lightening up. So don’t be afraid to enjoy the season and have a little fun with your fashion. You don’t have to bare all, but you can find fashion that makes you feel comfortable and confident inside and out.
Marla Tomazin, Certified Image Consultant, established her image consulting business in 1990 with the goal of helping clients identify an authentic image and develop its effective expression. Marla utilizes her abilities in evaluating body shape, movement, and coloring as well as synthesizing optimal cuts, lines, colors, and textures. This results in balance and proportion that accentuate attributes and conceal flaws. Marla has appeared on numerous TV and radio stations and programs. Visit www.marlatomazin.com.
