Solve those summer style dilemmas
Whether at home or abroad, it can be a challenge to sail through summer in style. Lisa Haynes solves your seasonal fashion woes
One day we’re shivering in winter coats and scarves, the next we’re baking in shorts and sandals. This summer’s extreme weather contrasts have been tricky to navigate on the fashion front.
Thankfully, with the forecast looking bright for the rest of the season, we can finally go to town on high summer style.
Whether you’re jetting off to faraway climes or staycationing, now’s the time to fully embrace a holiday wardrobe before autumn creeps up and you’re back in all-too-familiar knitwear and tights.
Need an injection of summer confidence? If it’s a wardrobe booster you’re after, or immunisation against fashion disasters, check in to our travel style clinic for sunny solutions.
White hot
Q: My wardrobe feels anything but heatwave-proof. What should I be wearing in balmy temperatures?
A: Black fabrics will soak up the sun and make you even hotter so go the polar opposite with cool and breezy whites. The materials you choose are all-important. Think breathable, natural fabrics like cotton and linen and avoid man-made materials, which are guaranteed to make you sweat when the heat is on. Try Ronan Chen’s Amalfi linen mix dress, £135 (www.ronenchenstoreuk.com).
Ronan Chen Amalfi linen mix dress, £135 (www.ronenchenstoreuk.com).
Slinky swimsuit
Q: The thought of baring my body in a bikini fills me with dread. What’s the alternative?
A: Swimwear is infinitely more flattering than ever before and there’s a solution to skim over every lump and bump so you can hit the beach feeling body confident. If your stomach is your worry area, look for a one-piece with control panelling and clever ruching for an instant tummy tuck. If your bottom and thighs are your bugbear, look to bikinis and swimsuits featuring an in-built skirted design, which will look both retro, flattering and fun.
Leg camouflage
Q: I want to break my tights habit but my legs are very white. How can I look summery but keep my pins under wraps?
A: If you can bear to flash an ankle, cropped jeans in fresh pastel shades or floral prints will instantly update your denim drawer. Ensure the fabric is stretchy and lightweight so you don’t feel too restricted. Failing that, go floor-length with a maxi skirt in a beautiful flowing fabric. If the bottom half is billowing, balance out proportions and keep your top half fitted. Try Long Tall Sally’s embellished maxi skirt, £50 (www.longtallsally.com). Pictured at the top of the page.
One-hot wonder
Q: What’s the one item that I should pack in my suitcase for a sunny break?
A: Think of a multi-tasking wonder that works for both poolside by day and sundowner cocktails by night. A shirt dress can be worn open and loose over a swimsuit and then buttoned up and belted for a smarter evening look. A kaftan or tunic can look beachy by day with sandals and transformed to glam via towering heels. Buy over-sized or in a longer length so that it doesn’t look too mini.
Summer stride
Q: Can shoes be chic and sight-seeing friendly?
A: Believe it or not, orthopaedic-style sandals are what all the cool kids are wearing this summer. But always without socks. Clumpy cool sandals should have minimal straps (maximum three) and be plain black, white or brown. For added height, stick to simple wedges in soft materials that won’t rub.
Eastern promise
Q: I’m bored of my summer jackets. What’s the coolest cover-up for this season?
A: Look East for inspiration. The kimono jacket is like the kaftan’s cooler sister this summer, especially in eye-catching prints or intricate embroidered styles. By night, you can even belt it together to create a quirky dress option if it’s not too sheer. If you’re curve-conscious, look for a longer style with three-quarter length sleeves.
Bountiful bag
Q: I always over-pack and panic at the check-in desk. How can I cut down my flight luggage?
A: Ditch your cluttered everyday bag and use a beach bag to carry your hand luggage. Buy a roomy one and use a small wallet for all your essentials (passport, purse etc) and then use the extra room for bulkier items. Just ensure your hand luggage still meets the airline weight and size requirements.
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