I’m sort of in the process of organising my wardrobe. I say sort of because it’s a half-hearted attempt at best, and a very slow process. So slow that at this pace I’ll finish packing away my winter cashmere by August…
But, as part of the half-hearted, slow-moving clearout, I’m also going through my summer clothes (you know, to see what fits, and if there’s a realistic chance that it will one day fit me again… ). And I’m getting a bit fed up having a wardrobe full of clothes and nothing to wear. Yes, I know, I should simply get rid of whatever I never wear. But more importantly, I should only buy clothes that I can wear over and over again, and that work for my lifestyle and meet my needs. This is particularly important when it comes to summer clothes, as I find hot weather always particularly challenging.
The Perfect Summer Wardrobe?
For me, summer dressing boils down to two things: comfort and sun protection. This means clothes that allow unrestricted movement, keep me cool on a hot day, and protect my paler than pale skin from the sun. Sounds easy, but I think it’s still very much a work-in-progress.
To be honest, I often wonder if there even is such a thing as the perfect summer wardrobe, or the perfect summer outfit. And that’s why I thought I should review my best outfits from last summer, and use that as my guideline when deciding what to keep and what to buy. And this is what I came up with:
1. Dresses
In my book, a dress is the ultimate summer outfit: cool and flirty, and so practical. It doesn’t get easier than that: just one piece and you’re done. It’s one-stop dressing at its best.
Of course, dresses come in many forms, and some are more practical than others. Personally, I prefer looser styles in summer as they’re more comfortable in hot weather.
This is one of my favourite dresses (see the original post HERE). I love everything about it: the style, the cut, the material, the colour… But even though it’s perfect for a moderately warm day (about 20℃ / 68℉), it’s not what I’d wear on a hot day (for the record, for me that’s anything over 24℃ / 75℉).
It’s the belt. As much as I like the way it looks, I find it extremely uncomfortable when it’s hot.
No, I definitely don’t want anything around my waist then. As far as clothes go, hot weather calls for something feather light that barely touches my skin. In other words, something like this (see the original post HERE):
Yes, this outfit is (almost) perfect for a very hot day: it skims the body without clinging, and the kimono provides some sun protection for my arms. Of course, the dress is knee-length, so my legs are still exposed. That’s why I say it’s almost perfect…
2. Loose-Fitting Trousers or Harem Pants
Well, last summer I definitely liked wearing loose-fitting, ankle-length harem pants. I found them very elegant yet casual, and as comfortable as pyjama pants (original post HERE and HERE).
3. Maxi-Dresses and Linen Shirts
Long skirts or maxi dresses worn with a chambray linen shirt was practically my uniform last summer (original posts HERE and HERE). The dress / skirt is long enough to actually provide some sun protection, and loose enough to be comfortable.
And long-sleeved linen shirts… I have about half a dozen of them, in various colours. If ever there was a summer style staple, this is it. For me, at least. I mostly wear them tied at the waist (worn loose they can be a bit too boxy for my liking, so this is an easy way to provide some waist definition).
So, based on my review, all I need for summer is some pyjamas and muumuus… Hmmm… not very creative. But on the other hand, if it works… OK, I guess I’d better go shopping then…
What are you going to get for summer?
Tiina
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I prefer light Maxi dresses sleeveless. Shirts / Tops with wide skirts. I think you are on a good way! XO Tina
That sounds perfect for summer, Tina!
I wish it was the weather to wear them, but last night it just froze here five degrees!
If only… But, we need to start planning, summer will be here eventually.
Tiina, love these outfits,espcially the bright pink on you! I am with you on the dresses being one stop. I am with you on organizing the closet… don't you wish you could clap your hands and it would be done? Have a great weekend!thanks for linkingjess xxwww.elegantlydressedandstylish.com
Oh yes, a magic closet-organising fairy, that's what I need! At this rate my closet will be organised by Christmas…The pink dress must be at least 10 years old, but it's very comfortable, and perfect the layer under a cardigan or a kimono.
Hi Tiina, I hadn't thought to wear a knotted shirt with a dress. Looks lovely on you. Great idea, thanks for inspiration.
You're welcome. I often wear a linen shirt tied at the waist because it creates a bit more waist definition than wearing the shirt loose.
Very stylish – all these looks, love the first dress and how you've paired it with red! I've just bought a chambray dress and been checking out colours to wear with it. I might try red as well. Jacquiwww.mummabstylish.com
Thanks, Jacqui. It's one of my favourite dresses, and I can easily accessorize it to suit my mood. I've worn it with red, orange and pink accessories…
For me summer is about showing a bit of skin as we get so little opportunity in the UK. Yet we do also have those days when you just want to cover up as the sun burns, even here. I've used a white shirt a lot as a cover up in the past. I do like your maxi chambray look. I will remember that trick.
Yes, that's the tricky question, to show some skin while covering up to avoid burning… We get a lot of sunshine in Finland in summer (almost around the clock even here in the south), so sun protection is quite important. I wear long-sleeved linen shirts because I hate wearing sun screen…
So many great looks for spring and summer! I like your chambray shirt with the leopard belt, even though it might not be your favorite for warmer weather. Thanks for linking up and have a wonderful weekend, Tiina!
Thanks! I like that look, too, and I'm trying to think of something that has the same vibe but with looser cuts and without the belt…
The pink dress and scarf is beautiful! I love the linen shirt tied at the waist, and the chambray dress with the leopard print belt is fab. I know what you mean about needing loose and flowing clothes when it's hot though. Light and loose fitting trousers are a favourite of mine.Emma xxxwww.style-splash.com
Thanks, Emma. You mean the pink dress? That's actually a very loose kimono. It's feather light but provides some protection from the sun. I think I will be wearing the same combination this summer, too. Oh, loose-fitting trousers, that's definitely on my shopping list, too.