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Yes, summer is still a few months away, but that’s no reason not to start planning for the future. Now is the perfect time to start reviewing your spring and summer wardrobe, so that you aren’t caught out when the weather starts to get warm. Nobody likes scrambling for seasonal clothes when it’s already too late.
When building a seasonal wardrobe, many people like to combine some staple styles and items with a few trendy signature items. Often, you can reuse these staples. Even if you enjoy shopping, making sure that your clothes last and get worn again the next year is both affordable and good for the environment.
Here are some tips for creating the perfect summer capsule wardrobe.
1. Look For Breathable Fabrics
When reviewing your summer wardrobe, look out for breathable material. Dark denim and leather may look cool, but you certainly won’t feel cool when the sun is beating down on you. Choose gentle fabrics and lighter colors to reflect the sun and to add to that summer style.
Ideally, your clothes should be comfortable and practical, as well as stylish. Different materials are better than others, so find a fabric guide to help you to know what to look for. As a general rule, you should consider using these fabrics and colors in many of your outfits, but here are a few suggestions for wardrobe staples:
• Cotton: Cotton is one of the most breathable fabrics out there and is the perfect material for dresses and/or tops. Make sure you have at least one cotton dress in your closet.
• Linen: Linen is also a super-light fabric that makes for great tops, shorts, and even jackets. Add a neutral linen blazer to your collection that will go with everything.
• Chambray: Chambray is perfect when you want to get that denim look without the heaviness of the denim fabric. Look for a chambray shacket (aka shirt jacket) that you can wear from day to night.
2. Make Sure You Have Enough Accessories
Accessories complete your outfits and can transform a seemingly bland outfit into something that reflects your personality and style perfectly. Too many accessories can weigh you down and cause you to feel uncomfortable, but a few pieces can tie your outfit together.
Shoes are one of the most underrated accessories out there. Instead of opting for a neutral sandal, go for a bold shoe that will inspire the rest of your outfits. Neons and vibrant colors are super in this year so you should have no trouble finding a bright sandal to make a statement.
Sunglasses are also the perfect accessory because they’re both practical and stylist. You might be tempted to find the trendiest pair out there, but instead, opt for a classic pair that you’ll be able to wear for summers to come.
A hat can keep the sun out of your eyes and away from your face and neck so that you’re less likely to get burnt. Classic, wide-brimmed hats are perfect for a day out at the beach or a summer date night.
3. Find the Perfect Swimsuit
Summer goes hand in hand with the beach or poolside, so it’s time to get some stunning swimwear. You can’t go wrong with high waisted bikinis, since they’re universally flattering. Some people prefer swimsuits, tankinis, and swim shorts or skirts. Regardless of what’s in this year, always make sure your swimsuit makes you feel comfortable and confident.
If you love to spend the day at the beach, make sure you also look for a light beach dress or cover-up so you can feel comfortable hanging at the beachside bar in the evenings.
Most importantly, however, make sure that you’re protected from the sun. Sunburns are uncomfortable, painful, and can be very dangerous. Wear sunscreen and reapply it regularly. Always pay attention to what’s happening to your skin and resist the urge to fall asleep.
4. Stock Up on Summer Dresses
Summer dresses are everyone’s not-so-secret weapon when it gets warm. Summer dresses are cool to wear, especially if you lean towards flowing styles that gracefully drape, allowing cool air to circulate around your body.
Opt for a summer dress in one of the fabrics we mentioned above to keep yourself cool and comfortable all day long.
