How to dress for summer

light coloured clothing hanging on rail against white background

As the temperature starts to rise, the annual transition from winter wardrobe to summer wardrobe begins. For many, dressing for summer can pose a number of challenges, both in terms of looking good and feeling comfortable.

In this blog post, we give you a masterclass on how to dress stylishly and stay cool on even the hottest summer days.

How to dress well for summer

When it comes to choosing what to wear in the warmer months, it’s all too easy for your usual sense of style to go out the window in your eagerness not to overheat. However, just because the sun is shining doesn’t mean you can’t look your best. After all, when you look good, you feel good, and everyone wants to feel good about themselves and make the most of the sun, whether they’re relaxing in the garden, enjoying days out or socialising with friends and family around the barbecue.

Dressing for your body type

The number one rule when dressing for summer is to wear whatever makes you feel comfortable. However, it’s not uncommon for women to worry about looking frumpy or about clothes looking ill-fitting or unflattering when transitioning to a summer wardrobe. To help you overcome these concerns, here are some tips for dressing for your body type.

The apple figure (you have a large bust, narrow hips and a less defined waist)

● Wrap dresses, which are a summertime staple, can give you a more defined waistline, helping you to create an hourglass silhouette.

● V-neck tshirts, blouses and dresses can help to break up your chest and elongate your neck.

● Embellishments around the neck, such as pretty lace trimming or scalloped edges, help to draw the eye away from your midsection.

The pear figure (your hips are broader than your shoulders)

● With a defined waist and a flouncy skirt, fit and flare dresses can help to streamline your hips to even out your silhouette.

● Patterned short-sleeve tops are perfect for drawing the eye up and flattering pear-shaped frames.

● Drop earrings can create focus around your shoulders and face to balance out your body.

The rectangular figure (your shoulders, bust, waist and hips measurements are similar)

● Short, puffy sleeves can help to create curves and draw the eye up.

● Ruffles and ruching add fun and interest to a summertime look and can add volume where needed to create an hourglass figure.

● Round-toe sandals are great for preventing your rectangular body shape from appearing too angular.

The hourglass figure (you have a large bust, a defined waist and your shoulders and hips are similar widths)

● Flowy trousers, skirts or shorts can comfortably accommodate your hips while showing off your defined waist.

● Bold prints can emphasise your curves.

● V-neck tops or blouses can help to interrupt the fullness of the upper body, creating balance.

How to dress cool in summer

Whether you’re hitting the shops, exploring the countryside or enjoying some time at the seaside, a summer’s day can be ruined by wearing the wrong outfit. Look and feel your best by following these rules:

1. Choose light colours

Not only do light colours look better in summer, but they also help to reflect the sun’s rays, allowing you to stay nice and chilled even when the sun is beating down.

2. Go sleeveless

The last thing you’ll want in the height of the summer is to feel restricted. Let your arms free and increase breathability by opting for dresses and tops without sleeves. Feeling self conscious about your arms? Choose a short, flowy sleeve instead to give you ease of movement and to allow air to circulate.

3. Choose flowy clothes

Tight, figure hugging clothes will have you feeling hot under the collar as the temperatures creep up. Instead, when the mercury rises, it’s a good idea to go for clothes that give your body room to breathe. Take your pick from easy to wear pull-on style skirts, chiffon blouses and drop waist dresses to stay cool while looking chic.

4. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics

Cotton is an ideal fabric for summer as it allows air to circulate, and it can keep you feeling cool. Polyester is also a good choice as it’s lightweight and can help to wick moisture away, meaning you should feel comfortable no matter what you get up to.

5. Free your feet

Say goodbye to cosy boots and restrictive shoes, and allow your feet to breathe in a pair of stylish sandals or canvas open-toed shoes. Sandals will help your feet to stay as sweat-free as possible, allowing you to feel happy and confident as you go about your day in the heat.

Dressing for summer doesn’t have to be hard work. By keeping some basic style rules in mind and choosing light, airy clothing that allows you to move freely, you’ll be able to look fashionable and feel good about yourself all summer long.

If you’re upgrading your wardrobe for summer, why not take a look at our blog on creating a capsule wardrobe? Full of tips and tricks, it can help you to choose items of clothing that will allow you to create a wide range of looks.

Posted by Laura D on 15 June 2021

Laura supports the content and email channel for Chums and has been with the company over four years. She specialises in fashion ecommerce and CRM.

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