In London, it is practically already summer with the heat. The common misconception with summer is that – it is not really a ‘fashionable’ season. No fancy coats, no layering etc. Precisely because layering is no more, each piece should be a statement piece that stands on its own. Here are my summer fashion essentials, and how to wear them in a chic way.
1. Crop tops
Crop tops are controversial. It is tricky to look sophisticated and chic wearing a crop top. The first rule I always have is to work with your proportions. Crop tops look the best with, or the illusion of, longer legs and a shorter torso. To cheat this, high-waisted trousers or jeans would do the trick. Also, elegance is all about balance. I always cringe at the ‘bare-all’ approach to showing skin. Since you reveal more of your torso, I think the best thing to pair a crop top with is a pair of long jeans or trousers. More than that, a pair of loose, flowy bottoms would balance the fitted cut of the crop top. It will make you look effortless and chic. I go for relatively statement/printed crop tops like this one.
2. Off-the-shoulder tops
On the topic of tops, off-the-shoulder tops are always in season. Off-the-shoulder tops are very boho-chic. Therefore, I think off-the-shoulder tops should not be very ‘loud’ in terms of its colour or print. The beauty of these tops is in its construction. If you want to make a statement, consider little details like lace, ruffles or ribbons. With the rule of balance, off-the-shoulder tops look the best with fitted bottoms, preferably with a demure kick-flare cut.
3. Mini-skirts
The mini skirt is the chameleon of fashion. It can be a part of any look. For statement pieces, I think one should opt for colours rather than prints. I think prints on a skirt can be unflattering on girlies like me that do not want to look wider on the bottom. A mini skirt with little mesh inserts and a watercolour palette would fit the bill. To go for a preppy style, pair a denim/cotton skirt with a white button-down under a bomber jacket. A jacket with a varsity vibe is ideal.
4. Mules
Mules are coming back, and they have come back for a couple years now. I think the most unflattering thing about mules is their shape – it can make the feet look chunky. I think a pair of good shoes should elongate the legs – almost as if it is an extension of your entire outfit. This means two things: pointed toe and a high, semi-skinny heel. The best option is a pair of nude leather mules with a high-heel.
5. Pop of colour: cherry
The cherry on the top (pun intended) is a pop of colour. The quintessential summer colour to me is cherry red. I think it is a universally flattering colour, particularly for warmer skin tones. It lifts and brightens the complexion, and packs a punch. Wearing it as a top or a coat can be very overwhelming. The best way to wear cherry red is by way of accessories, or by way of a lip colour!
Thank you so much my stars :)
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