The last thing you want to think about are layers, and most days zipping up a light summer dress will do. But what if I told you there was a way to both play nice with the heat wave and stay stylish underneath its smiling rays? I teamed up with TrendsGal today to show you it could be done: Below are 3 summer outfits that are simple, unfussy, and completely and totally chic.
Look One: Summer Layering
Whether you're taking a slow stroll for some lavender iced tea at the corner donut shop or are heading out for a second date with a promising young gentleman (/woman), a preppy summer dress can be the answer to all your prayers. But sometimes, zipping it up and heading out the door just doesn't feel satisfying. For moments like those you need an arsenal of easy layering pieces that can bring some unexpected oomph to an outfit.
The pieces need to be thin (because, heat stroke), preferably sleeveless, and boasting a special detail that can turn a pretty look into an amazing one. That's why my eyes lit up when I saw this sleeveless peter pan collar top- it's a white blouse but with a bold, outlined collar. While it'll look plenty cute on its own paired with a skirt or jeans, I knew it would be amazing layered underneath dresses!
Other fun alternatives would be pussybow blouses, ruffled or flaired short sleeve tops (imagine them paired underneath sleeveless dresses) or thin but patterned long sleeve shirts.
Top:: c/o TrendsGal (only $6.76!!)
Dress: c/o Stranger Bird Vintage
Purse: c/o New Old Fashion Vintage
Sandals: Target (last year)
Look Two: The Summer Tee
When you think of a stylish outfit, your mind doesn't usually race towards the word "tank top". When you think of yourself having sake bombs at a sushi bar cool with neon, or rifling through a postcard box in a summer flea market, you don't necessarily see yourself looking gorgeous in thin, gray cotton. Those types of moments are usually paired with flirty summer dresses or something of that nature.
But if you know how to play up said summer tee, then the possibilities are there. Try giving a plunging tank top a chic kick by pairing it with trendier, bolder pieces like high waist bell bottoms, or a wildly patterned skirt. It'll be the perfect back drop for a piece that has strong character. Continue to play up the simple staple by focusing on details like draped necklaces and a show-stopping belt, giving yourself the chance to dabble with bolder pieces without coming off as too over-done.
Top: c/o Trendsgal (only $5!)
Jeans: H&M
Belt: vintage (from mom)
Clogs: Urban Outfitters
Necklaces: Cocorrina and H&M
Purse: c/o New Old Fashion Vintage
Look Three: The Embroidered Top
Ah, the embroidered top. You can just imagine yourself smelling the peaches at the Sunday farmer's market- with your hair swept up loosely underneath your straw hat- when you look at this shirt. It's feminine, playful, and offers a world of styling possibilities. Everything from popping it underneath a pinafore or overalls, to letting it flow loose and casual over skinny jeans.
Take a hot summer's day as an opportunity to go simple with your outfit but letting it shine with key accessories. For example, pair your embroidered peasant top with a pair of everyday high waist jeans. Then, take the easy look to the next level by adding in a belt with some character and a quirky, earthy-looking purse. Add clunky sandals at your feet for a fun contrast against the feminine look, and you have yourself an unfussy outfit with a lot of style!
Top: c/o Trendsgal (only $13.82!)
Jeans: American Apparel
Shoes: Forever 21
Belt: vintage (from mom)
Purse: c/o New Old Fashion Vintage
