Elevate Your Summer Wardrobe: Stylish Picks for Women
Between the balmy temperatures these last few days, and making notes for my Paris style report (coming soon, I promise!), my fashion focus has shifted into summer mode. While researching trends I’m seeing in Paris, I’ve come across some tempting pieces to help you elevate your own warm weather outfits.
I find getting dressed in summer more challenging than any other season. I want to be comfortable in the heat, but still look polished and put-together. So much of what’s available in summer collections tends to be more bare and “beachy.” That’s fine if it’s your style, but if not, it’s smart to identify any gaps in your summer wardrobe or pieces that could use an update, and shop early.
Casual-but-elevated summer styles for women
Etienne cropped shirt in red stripe – $89.50
The cropped length is great for pairing with wider leg pants or fuller skirts. It’s 100% (breathable, washable) cotton. Several striped & solid options available in sizes XX-Small to 3X.
It also comes in a full-length option, if you prefer.
Open-weave Mary-Jane espadrilles – $198
I love this take on an espadrille! The strap keeps them securely on your feet, and the open weave allows for cooling air flow. These are made in Spain. (Also in black.)
Here’s a similar, budget-friendlier option.
Crochet top with sequins – $89.50
As easy as a tee, but more interesting. I think you could easily dress this up with a skirt or satin pants.
Sizes Xx-Small to 3X.
Basket bag with gold handles – $285
A straw or raffia bag will instantly summerize your look. This one from Sézane is SO cute, and is available with several different handle colors. There’s an inside pouch with a drawstring to stow your stuff securely.
Here’s another good-looking style that’s a bit smaller. And a budget-friendly option with a similar look.
Knit eyelet split neck top – $128
Eyelet is another nice option for keeping cool with a bit more coverage. (I’ve been seeing a lot of eyelet pieces here in Paris, both in shops and being worn on warmer days.) This top is a cotton knit, comfortable and washable. In sizes X-Small to XX-Large.
Dot print linen pants – $105.99
There’s nothing cooler than linen in the heat. I think a print like this one can help camouflage the inevitable creases. Printed bottoms (pants and skirts) are another mini-trend I’ve been noticing in both London and Paris.
Regular sizes XX-Small to XX-Large.
Cotton poplin shirt dress – $180
Wafty without being too oversized. Available in more colors (this blue is great for you Winters!) in Regular, Petite, and Tall sizes.
What pieces are you looking to add or replenish for summer?
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Being a teacher, I have the summer off, so I tend to live in flip-flops, baggy shorts, and graphic tees. Hmmmm, I think I look like a middle schooler, LOL. I am always on the hunt for cute, strappy, flat, comfortable sandals that aren’t made of plastic. Birks are heavy-looking to me. Does anyone have suggestions?
Katie, one thought would be the Ecco Flash Women’s Leather T-Bar sandal – it’s strappy, flat, and comfortable. (I own this one in the metallic called “grey” on the site. )
https://us.ecco.com
I’ve been looking for a pair of wide leg pants with a subdue print that is not stripes…..has to have a 31 inseam and prefer a subdue print. I saw those pokadot print one’s but not for me.
I did purchase the Franco Sarto black open weave flat that you mention a few weeks ago and they’re very comfortable (padded foot bed is a thumbs up).
Etienne cropped shirt looks nice. We are the same size and wonder what size you would order in this? Would you suggest petite sizing? Thanks. Jane
Hi Jane, I haven’t tried this particular shirt yet. Last year I bought a similar one in size Small. The Etienne looks a bit more oversized so I might consider sizing down.
Thanks for showing the white knit eyelet top. I’m giving this a try.
Such cute clothes! My summer problem is that the a/c at work is usually cranked up and you can’t do bare arms or legs. Coming from 88 to 65 feels good for the first 20 minutes, and then it’s just too cold. Even linen pants are little protection.