Summer is Finally Here!

And...it came in with a bang. Temps increased and the air conditioning came on. This is the time of year when people get summer colds - that sneezy cold that comes from walking into an air conditioned space from the warmth outside.

The smart money is on layers, as always. With men, in a business casual environment, while you can't really rely on your suit jacket since you likely won't be wearing one, you can utilize a long sleeve button down shirt. If you get chilly in the office, you can leave the shirt buttoned at the wrist. If you get warm, it's very easy to stylishly roll up your sleeves these days. Many shirts are now available with a contrasting pattern or color that gives the shirt a different look when rolled up.

Women have it much easier when layering. A simple sweater shrug over a short sleeve shirt or a tank dress with a long sleeve shirt layered over it (belt optional) is an easy solution. Of course, a jacket or long sleeve shirt always looks tailored and put together.

What else do we do during the summer? As I pointed out in my book, Portraits of Lifestyle Dressing, there is more to one's life than work. Whether you're attending an outdoor concert, a comedy show or headed out to the farmer's market, comfort and fashion can meet with ease. Making certain you are aware of the weather is key. If the forecast calls for rain or strong sun, add weather appropriate pieces to your bag or your car to make it through the day with style. Maybe add a fun summer hat or a polka dot umbrella to complement your striped sundress.

If you had to choose what to wear for 100 days of summer ahead of time, and knew what the weather would be in advance, what would you wear?

Keeping It Cool

Many months ago when I was doing segments for My Carolina Today on NBC, I did a story line on breathable fabrics for the extreme weather we are experiencing now. Sometimes there isn't a whole lot you can do when it is 100 degrees out, besides limit your outdoor time during the day and plan most activities for early morning or early evening. Good sound advice for everyone, although I remember laughing it off as a kid. 

I have actually worked at following my own advice as much as possible. Ask me how that's working out, after I play tennis this evening. Back to my thoughts...the story in the video was filmed at Great Outdoor Provision. It was one of the first stories I did solo without a host, and I was interviewing an employee at the store. I hit every mark I needed to include more information that anyone would ever need to know for purchasing clothing in extreme weather. I was so proficient that I went over the allotted taping time by several minutes, maybe five or more. A rambler in front of camera is something I do well! I wonder if Justin (the camera/producer) guy remembers that episode. I was a little nervous.

 Check out  this video on YouTube:  Keeping Cool for Summer Activities  

Here are a few other suggestions for keeping it cool:

* wear lighter colors and not dark colors or dark patterns (white or beige is optimal)

* choose loose fitting linen fabrics, cottons or, and this is the best choice, wicking fabrics that absorb sweat

* wear shorts or skirts and avoid pants, if possible

* sundresses are the best option and can usually be worn to work with a sweater or vest to cover your shoulders.

* avoid denim weight pants - if you want to wear denim, capri's are a better option

* wear a woven hat to shield the sun and heat

* carry a lightweight sweater to deal with heavily air conditioned places

* wear sandals that offer a leather or sweat absorbent foot bed

* avoid shoes that are man-made material such a plastic, vinyls or pleather

* if perspiration stains are a consistent problem look for medically based deodorants

My last and final reminder.....remember the sunscreen daily and reapply if you are outside for more than four hours.

Shirtdresses for summer!

I am all about a shirt dress for summer! Whether it is neon orange or plain old denim, I can always find several different ways to wear a shirtdress. Consider these questions when putting together your outfit to help transition the item.

The melon pleated dress:

1. If the shirtdress is sleeveless, do I have casual cardigans, cropped jackets, and belts to change the look of the dress?

2. Can I dress it up or down by wearing flats or heels? Do I have scarves or necklaces to help accessorize the simple silhouette?

3. Am I comfortable mixing fabrics, similar tones, or bright tones for a pop of color?

If you have answered yes to most of these questions, then this is a great item to incorporate into your lifestyle wardrobe. The same dress can transition into fall by using navy, taupes, and sage greens. Stay away from blacks and browns as you may feel a bit ghoolish!

The denim sleeveless shirtdress:

1. Can I see the endless possibilities in wearing this dress with a crispy white blouse underneath or short sleeve fitted scoop neck t-shirt?

2. Not only are cowboy boots an option, but am I comfortable wearing brightly colored flip flops and fun bangles for a hot summer day?

3. I know wearing a white denim jacket may be a bit much, but how about a khaki or stone colored hip length jacket and a woven wedge shoe with canvas uppers?

If you are nodding your heads in agreement, then this is the shirtdress for you. Shirtdresses are truly an item that I could talk about for hours and offer dozens of ideas about how to change the look. It's such a versatile piece of clothing! As for the cowboy boots...I have just recently convinced a client that she can wear boots in the summer. No, she ain't from Texas!

From my closet to yours-

Enjoy!

Suzanne