Essentials that I will be packing with me this summer
IT IS TIME TO DUST OFF YOUR ESPADRILLES and start to show off some skin. This time of the year I often find myself craving colors, maybe something with fringe and off-the-shoulder tops.
I find summer being one of the hardest seasons to dress for. Don’t get me wrong, I love summer but the heat is not my friend. I don’t know if it is because I sweat a lot or if everything feels too naked to wear?! But I do love summer and I thought I would share my favourite summer outfits that I think you should bring into your life as well.
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I have done some online shopping again because it is good for my soul. I understand that we all have our own sense of style and most of us aren’t traveling anywhere soon. But I like dreaming away for a second and there are a lot of stores out there that have a crazy-sale on, so let’s get to it. Here are my must-haves for any European escape:
Linen shorts and shirt (a perfect set), white sneakers or why not a gingham jumpsuit
I am excited to upgrade to my summer wardrobe with some fresh getaway pieces and a splash of color. Because let’s be honest, summer is all about having fun and bringing some color into your wardrobe. Right? Pick a few colors and build your wardrobe according to that palette to keep it fresh yet stylish.
I found this lovely yellow jumpsuit on &otherstories that looks like a lemon sorbet. Imagine wearing it with a pair of Birkenstock sandals and a pair of gold hoop earrings. Maybe add some sunglasses and a cute bag and you are ready for after-work drinks in the sun or sitting on a flight to Hawaii.
If you are planning on heading down to the beach you should bring some light and neutral pieces. I just can’t get enough of the all-white outfits out there and linen is the ultimate fabric for summer weather. I LOVE sets. Best thing that ever happened to me – two garments and you look instantly chic. This linen set is both lightweight and breathable – it will be appropriate for any occasion. A huge plus, you can casually wear your swimwear underneath.
TIPS! Look for linen pieces on sales and second hand shops for some great deals.
No summer getaway is complete without a perfect day-to-night dress and bare legs! My favourites are classy yet elegant like iconic satin dresses or cut-out dresses that you can either dress up or dress down on a boring Thursday.
I love floral prints during summer and I love to add a bit of texture into cute looks to make them a bit more interesting and personal. No outfit is complete without some gold jewellery, platform sandals, a fun hair piece or a sun hat! These details will keep your body secure as you explore the hidden gems of your destination. All that I am missing is some freckles and dungarees.
Chain necklace, leather jacket, sleeveless white top, high-rise blue jeans and strappy sandals
I think the most important item for summer is a white crewneck t-shirt. It isn’t exactly that exciting, but it is the most versatile basic you can wear. It will work for going to work, taking a stroll in the park or at a casual event. It also go endless styling possibilities. You can pair it with a flattering asymmetric midi skirt or a classic pair of cycling shorts.
Another classic piece is high-rise blue jeans because they never go out of style. Jeans come in a lot of different fits, so pick the one you prefer and add it to your wardrobe. Don’t be afraid to combine denim-on-denim for a monochromatic look. Add the right accessories, a strap top and you can make even the most boring jeans pop!
Take this simple and casual look and turn it into a full date-look with a leather jacket. This is a good investment because you will instantly look polished. It will also serve you in the fall and next summer both at home and abroad. The summer nights can get a bit chilly so if you don’t want to drag a jacket with you, make sure you at least have a warm sweater to put on when the temperatures dip.
It is also worth mentioning that if you are visiting some religious sites – modest attire may be required. Having a lightweight sweater on hand allows you to enjoy all the places while respecting the country’s culture and customs.
A-line mini dress, swimsuit, jeans short and braided strap sandals
When you bring out your swimsuit and bikini you know for a fact that summer is here. I personally love this sporty swimsuit from COS and I think it would be cool to combine it with a pair of neutral sandals and jeans shorts on your way down to the beach. After your swim, throw on a cute striped dress and you are ready for lunch at the closest beach restaurant.
Don’t forget to bring your beachside essentials: sunscreen (SPF), oversized sunglasses and straw hat so you are protected from the sun. They will keep you comfortable as you enjoy all Europe has to offer.
Lights linen blazer, a basket bag, puff-sleeved dress or top and heel mules
Back to bringing color into your wardrobe. I try to limit the amount of black pieces in my summer wardrobe to lighten up the mood. I personally LOVE dots, animals, stripes and gingham prints. So that is one way to go if you need to spice things up.
The puff-sleeved trend has really blown up this summer and can be seen on both dresses and tops. I wouldn’t mind chasing the sun in this polka-dot dress from Ganni that is on sale right now. You can dress it up with a pair of statement snakeskin heels and a bold lipstick – which adds a touch of elegance to any outfit. Add a straw tote bag that holds all your essentials and you are ready for a stroll around town.