7 Summer Style Essentials
Don’t stress over what to wear this summer! It’s the season for taking things easy, and that includes getting dressed. If you’ve got the basics down -- good jeans, T-shirts and tanks -- all you need are a few fresh pieces to liven up your wardrobe. We asked style pros for their top picks and pared down their choices to eight no-sweat summer essentials.
1. A sheer blouse
Super-versatile! Pair it over a lace bralet and denim shorts for an easy, eye-catching summer outfit. Or throw one over your swimsuit for a chic cover-up. Sheer blouses can be found everywhere from H&M and Free People to high-end designers like 3.1 Phillip Lim. I love them all! -- Ali Levine, celebrity stylist, Los Angeles
2. LWD
Instead of the little black dress, the little white dress is an absolute must for summer. The misconception is that white makes you appear larger, but that simply isn't true. White always looks fresh and modern and projects confidence. Pair a LWD with a nice faux glow and strappy sandals, and you'll ooze sex appeal. -- Hilary Kennedy, Dallas, Texas, TV host and fashion blogger
3. Nude or neutral espadrille wedge sandals
These shoes can be worn with everything from dresses and skirts to jeans or shorts. Not only does the color work with any other color or pattern, but it nearly disappears on your foot, adding visual length to your legs. Michael Kors and Ralph Lauren are just two of many designers offering fresh takes on the nude espadrille. -- Joanna Avant, personal stylist and fashion blogger in Richmond, Va.
4. The jumper
In jersey cotton or linen, the jumpsuit is a sexy, stylish and comfortable look for summer. Both Trina Turk and BCBG have terrific versions that will take you from work to a night out. -- Laura Frecon, assistant costume designer, Mad Men, True Blood
5. Neon sunglasses
This is the emerging trend in eyewear this summer. You don’t need to go all the way to bright neon pink or yellow if that feels too young or trendy. A brighter-than-usual mint green or rich purple can work too. You can find budget-friendly pairs at T.J.Maxx or Target. -- Hilary Kennedy, Dallas, Texas, TV host and fashion blogger
6. A crisp white shirt
Tied up at the waist over a dress or high-waisted bottoms, belted over sheer skirts or shorts, or worn with classic tailored pieces, a polished white shirt is timeless. You can find options that won’t bust your budget at Banana Republic, J.Crew, Club Monaco and Kohl’s. -- Jonathan Joseph Peters, Project Runway designer, season 7
7. A colorful tote
A tote-style bag is practical and convenient for almost all outings – an early morning trip to the gym, work, errand running, even for drinks and dinner. You can find terrific totes in petal-pink leather from Rebecca Minkoff, bright-green pebbled leather from Cole Haan and vividly patterned straw from Mossimo at Target. -- Joanna Avant, personal stylist and fashion blogger in Richmond, Va.