The Ten Do's & Dont's of Summer Fashion
So often people ask me "what's 'in' this season?", "what should I be wearing?", "how should I be wearing it?" etc. I generally try to encourage people to enjoy fashion, don't take it too seriously and have fun expressing yourself through clothes. There are some simple rules below, along with a gentle nudge towards cool trends for the season. There is also a little advice on some things that you shouldn't do, even in the name of expression!
Do:
- Have fun with colour. The catwalks were awash with rainbow brights this season so take a leaf out of Jil Sander's book and team blues with greens, pinks with oranges or just about any colour combination you fancy. Zara has an awesome selection right now so you can get the look for less...
- Keep your stripes! The omnipresent Breton stripe is going nowhere but it has gotten a bit of an update. Clash skinny stripes with giant ones and steer clear of classic navy and white in favour of Prada-esque pink and white, blue and yellow. Be bold and be brave-you can even go head to toe stripes if you fancy it!
- Pick up some flares. They are the trouser of the season thanks to Chloe and Celine's obsession with everything 70's! While some people are a little nervous about stepping out of their skinnies (Oh how the tables have turned!), flares are actually pretty easy to wear and more flattering than you might think. It's worth trying on lots of styles and brands to get the fit just right. BT2's denim bar has a tonne of styles and a 'denimologist' on hand to help you find the perfect pair. Add a blouse and wedges and you'll be Farah Fawcett fabulous.
- Wear white, head to toe. Obviously this doesn't apply if you're a guest at a wedding! But, for everyday white has stepped into the spotlight and it's an all or nothing approach. Team an oversized shirt with cut off shorts or a skater skirt.
- Go masculine and opt for a hat. Raffia hats are everywhere at the moment and give a cool edge to any girlie outfit. You could try an authentic Panama hat or got for any of the high street options. If you something a bit more lady like, try a boater.
Don't:
- Wear leggings unless they are black. Grey, white and pink should be reserved for girls under five years of age! Also, leggings should be worn in a similar way to tights, not trousers. Always wear something long to cover up... Try Theory for great leggings that are a bit sturdier than high street options.
- Use your bikini as underwear. I see lots of people in summer wearing triangle bikini tops instead of bras and it's a big no no. They offer no support and distort your shape so save them for the beach.
- Go over the top. Racing season is in full swing and ladies all over the country get dolled up in the hope of winning something fabulous for the efforts. Less is more for the races so avoid the typical head-to-toe matching purple look and go for something that's a more glamourous version of your normal look. It should be true to your style and individual. And, remember to bring a coat or at least check the forecast before you decide that a mini and a wrap are a good choice.
- Wear shoes you can't walk in. With weddings and events season upon us, girls are splashing out on fabulous shoes to complete their new looks. Please don't be tempted to follow in Victoria Beckham's footsteps and wear seven-inch heels to a wedding. You'll be hobbling, miserable and look a little (or a lot) silly. Try before you buy and remember that you want shoes that allow you dance all night long, not prevent you from having fun!
- Do punk! It's a big trend this season but leather trousers on a sunny day do not a good combination make. Unless you want to end up like Ross from Friends, step away from the PVC and buy a dress...
THE MODERN SUMMER CAPSULE WARDROBE
Baggage restrictions and city breaks have meant that having a working capsule wardrobe has never been more important, or more relevant. But, for me, the very notion of "capsule" sounds boring, a bit dated and not very inspiring. But there are modern classics that every woman should own - pieces that will work together without much thought or planning, that will make life on holiday (and checking in at the airport) much easier.
The Sunnies
Put your stamp on your look with sunnies that scream personality. If you're polished and chic, maybe classic tortoise shell ones are best. If you prefer things with a bit of humour hit Topshop for John Lennon style shades or neon rims. They can really make an outfit so have fun!
The Blazer
Tailoring never dates and a good blazer will keep on working for years. If you're after something light, linen is a good option. Creasing and crinkling is unavoidable with this fabric so embrace or accept it before buying. Alternatively you could go for a classic navy blazer, which is softer than black and more chic too. Gold button are optional! Zara is great for cool tailored separates.
The Wedges
The wedge has undergone a makeover and now it's more cool than comfortable. Although they obviously are still super easy to wear. My favourites are authentic espadrilles-grab them on the cheap if you're holidaying in Europe or check out Penney's take on them. Cork wedges are also great, Kurt Geiger and Buffalo shoes are worth a look for the perfect style.
The Shirt
A white shirt is a must for summer dressing. You can go relaxed with and oversized, masculine one or keep it neat with a classic, fitted style. Either way, simplicity is key. Avoid fuss, frills or anything too girlie. M&S is great for classics.
The Jewellery
Summer jewellery is the best! Turquoise, coral brights and shiny gold! You can play around with different colours and be really bold with your choices. Giant neckpieces dress up a simple white tee and multiple cocktail rings look cool and are easy to pack!
The Holdall
I'm a big fan of tan accessories in Summer and think you can't go wrong with a Mulberry Bayswater if you're after an investment. Tan is less harsh than black and works really well with the whites, blues and washed-out corals of the season. If you're after a beach bag then check out H&M, they've got canvas holdall's that will travel well and fit everything but the kitchen sink for your trip.
