While fall and winter stake the claim for the most prestigious fashion seasons of the year, summer isn’t too far behind. Whether you are outfit-planning before an exotic vacation, or preparing yourself for the approaching of wedding season, you’re going to want to have an assortment of sunshine-appropriate outfits ready in your wardrobe.

This article was updated on June 22, 2020.

Still, standing out in the summertime is no easy task. Less clothing means less options. But with some creativity, trial and error, and enthusiasm, you can find a “wow factor” outfit for every day of sunshine.

SHORT-SHORTS ARE BACK

The 90s are alive and well. Women’s fashion, in particular, has witnessed the resurgence of trends that were just recently dead and buried. From micro-sunglasses to fanny packs, contemporary culture has started to replicate an episode of Saved By The Bell, and the resurgence is showing no signs of stopping.

However, the latest dabble in 90s escapades has been in menswear, with the revival of the short-shorts. Wearing a short-short takes some serious confidence, but when done well, it’s certainly a standout style. Pair that leggy short-short look with a sweet Hawaiian button-up for a relaxed summer look.

EXPERIMENT WITH GREENS

Building outfits that orbit one central color is a great way to keep a consistent wardrobe. And, as you roll out your summer clothes, it’ll become your brand. Remember, when adopting one principle color, accessorize with adjacent colors to create a stark contradiction. Just try not to bang it over the head too hard.

Green is a beautiful color that perfectly embodies the season’s warmest greens. Take the loveliest shades of lime greens, forest greens, jade greens and sage greens and turn them into fashionable outfits. Play with saturations too—pastel greens and vibrant greens are fun colors worth incorporating into your wardrobe.

As for those adjacent colors, go for an explosive magenta or fuchsia. These bold colors add a stark eye-catching contrast to an otherwise earthy ensemble. Paired up with any number of your favorite accessories, your pink and green combo will have you looking one with nature.

TRUSTING YOUR ACCESSORIES

A single accessory can transform an outfit. After all, what is Breakfast at Tiffany’s without the diamonds or Top Gun without the aviators? Sometimes an outfit isn’t complete without that statement piece. Whether expanding your collection of traditional men’s watches or playing with novelty cufflinks, you can use accessories to showcase your personality, sense of style, and impeccable taste.

SUPPORT LOCAL DESIGNERS

Living in a fashion-forward city means that there are going to be designers—established and novice—everywhere. That means opportunity. This summer, try attending local flea markets or designer pop-ups to familiarize yourself with emerging talent and the latest fashion trends.

THE TIMELESS CLASSICS

Even during Summer, you’re going to need layers. Designing an outfit that welcomes a summer breeze is important. Whether you’re wearing a tank top or a button-down, dressing it up with a bomber jacket is an easy recipe for success. Looking to up the ante? A vintage bomber goes a long way. Channel your inner Marlon Brando or Clint Eastwood and work on your old school Hollywood charm while you’re at it.

YOUR PATTERN, THE NARRATIVE

Despite the simplicity of the pieces you’re using, the right pattern can be an effective personality statement. This is especially true if you’re consistent.

• Floral – The femininity of the floral print can also be masculine. It’s easy to dress up and can complement any summer outing.
• Checkered – Although a bit more preppy, checkered layers are perfect for the 4th of July BBQ on the lake.
• Hawaiian – Bold and nearly universal, the Hawaiian shirt is perfect for a night out or a tropical vacation bar.
• Vertical Stripes – Sophisticated and sleek, this pattern screams city boy. Still, it can work anywhere if it’s presented correctly.

Although it’s less of a print, cuban shirts can also tell a tale of an old summer.

DON’T HOLD BACK

Creating a summer wardrobe is an exciting endeavor. Style it around anything you want and, in doing so, what you choose will be a direct reflection of your personality. At the end of the day, don’t shy away from you. Individuality is arguably the most important facet of style. Instill perpetual confidence by creating the perfect summer wardrobe!

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Thanks for reading and y’all stay dandy. -Diego
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