Hello Gorgeous,

With all the options available this summer, and there are many ways to up your look; I am hoping this article saves you hours of angst, and exposes you to the better rays of the sun. This season is all about bright colors, pastels, patterns and mixing prints. I am so impressed with some of the ladies who have stepped out of their comfort zone and have experimented (with much success indeed) with their sense of style.

Let’s take stock of what we have to play with, the rules, and how to have fun with it.

Neon. Wear it now. It won’t be around for long and it’s fun. Who doesn’t love color that makes you feel happy?
Breezy Cotton Shift Dresses -Like the advertisement says, it really IS the fabric of our lives.
Sleeveless Jumpsuit – Its comfort, class and confidence all rolled into one. Slip it on and your ready to go.
Maxi and Mini Dresses. Maxi – Myth: only tall women can carry them off. I am 5’4”, and trust me, it looks good! Mini – Myth: the shorter the better. Guess what? There happens to be an acceptable length which does not involve exposing your ‘business’
Versatile shorts. Something that will take you straight from the beach to that party on the yacht. Stay clear of hot pants and Bermudas, both are very unflattering and NO it doesn’t matter how long your legs are.
Draped T’s. Try pulling one of the shoulder, it looks effortless and very sexy!
Pastels, Patterns & Prints. The three P’s – Mix them up, it will turn heads, and if done the right way will keep them turned
1-piece Swimsuits. Bikinis have been demoted this year.  The modifications to the one piece are sexy enough to stand up to any bikini. Please don’t kill the look by wearing heels – all you need is a pair of embellished sandals and a pedicure.
A little sparkle. Do a little sparkle even during the day, try pairing a sparkly tee with a pair of shorts and a simple cuff on your hand. So simple. So fun.
Backless shirts & Dresses. For the brave, give your ladies some cover using Hollywood tape, the rest can pair the dress with a bright/lace bralet.
Cold shoulder. Here’s a secret darling… no one has fat on their shoulders.
Bright scarves. Can be used as a cover up as well and tied in several different ways.
Crop Tops. Rule – Cover your navel. Yes, unfortunately you will have to pass on the chocolates
A Classic Shirt Dress, what can be more chic?
White.Head to toe, not including white shoes in the ensemble of course.Throw in a colorful accessory to break it up. Personally, I like to pair white with gold accessories.
Over-sized clutches. In bright colors. I am loving them even for day time.
Sandals – Embellished, braided and ones with ankle straps. These should be your go to shoes all summer.
Mega platforms and wedges. Did I say that I’m 5’4?”, with these I am closer to 5’7”. Enjoy these responsibly, and be extra careful when you are up dancing on that bar.
Waterproof Mascara and tinted moisturizer are summer must haves in your makeup bag. If you’re by the pool or at the beach, try skipping foundation all together.
Sun Screen – your mantra for the summer. You will thank me when you’re 50. I like Neutrogena Ultra Sheer body mist – SPF 30 and L’Oreal Sublime Sun SPF 50. If you’re one of those that breaks out on your face, get your hands on a sunscreen that is oil free.
Clinical strength deodorant – All of the above won’t matter if you smell anything but delicious.

This post could have gone on for another few pages, I really had to contain myself!

Its been fantastic communicating with my readers, and I of course encourage questions. While I am happy to see my suggestions come to life, this blog hopes to empower you with your own sense of style.

“Create your own style… let it be unique for yourself and yet identifiable for others.” ― Anna Wintour

Until next time, stay classy & fabulous.

Stylishly Yours,
The Closet Stylist.