Summer is almost here.
That means pulling out your summer wardrobe and getting ready to spend some time in the sun. Just because its hot outside doesn’t mean you can toss style out the window. Summer dressing is a little bit more cut and dry than the endless layering options of fall, winter and spring. There are a few rules, however, especially when it comes to shorts.
- Don’t wear anything way past your knee or you will swerve into a strange men’s capri look. Super long shorts just mess up your proportions.
- Don’t wear bulky cargo shorts unless you are going on a safari. Got a lot of stuff? Opt for a backpack. I would even consider a fanny pack over cargos (a retro fanny pack will be a real talking point). If you are going to ignore this advice and wear the cargos then you might as well pair them with crocs.
- Don’t wear swim trunks unless you are (or might go) swimming. Swimwear is perfect for the pool or beach but not as a transition piece into the outside world unless you are a surfer. If you are a surfer then you are cooler than me and don’t need any advice.
Now, I love style in general. Sometimes even bad style if the effort is there. I don’t want to put all of the focus on what you shouldn’t do because summer is about having fun and letting loose. Here are some key points in looking great in the sun.
- Keep most of your shorts very neutral and versatile. Sure, splurge on a pair of statement shorts but the rest of them should be in grey, blue, white or beige. I don’t usually suggest dressing boring but a basic short will allow you to turn up the volume by pairing them with a colorful, short sleeve button up or bright shoes.
- In the store, the right length of short will always look too short. I don’t know if this is an optical illusion. Always try to find the perfect length of about 1”-1.5” above the knee. If you are short like me then maybe even 2” but be careful. You don’t want to be wearing shorts so short that you have a wardrobe malfunction and drop a nut out.
- Denim is great if you find the right cut and color. I prefer a slim fit (not tight) and either black/grey or super faded light. Whatever style you choose, definitely don’t refer to them as “jorts”
- Don’t spend a lot of money on shorts. They really shouldn’t be the star of the show. Basic shorts should be a staple. Save the money for killer sunglasses and drinks.
Summer dressing is about keeping it fun, cool and comfortable. While your shorts aren’t likely to be the star of the wardrobe, they can be the one thing that completely ruins your look. Keep them simple and classic. Build the rest of your look from there.
The look:
Stay tuned for the next Summer Sessions Blog…
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