Cool Suggestions for a Hot Summer
Spring is here and Summer is right around the corner and I want to make sure you are prepared. Here is my list of some Spring and Summer essentials that every woman can wear and should own! A pair of white pants, city shorts, metallic sandals, a day dress and a summer bag will get you through the warm months in style.
White Pants
Every woman can wear white pants - it just depends on the fit. A straight leg, which means that the pants fall straight down from the hip, will work for every body type. They do not narrow in at the knee or at the bottom. This pair of pants from Banana Republic demonstrate a straight leg. Even though these are not white, they are a good illustration of this style. This style will create a nice, long line on the leg.
Another option would be a trouser style, which is a fuller version of a straight leg. A boot cut will flare out a bit at the bottom. These flared 
trousers are also from Banana Republic and, as you can see, they have a bit of volume at the bottom of the leg. This style will help balance out a larger bust or broad shoulders.
I have a video on YouTube that shows the different cuts of jeans (but is also the same for trousers). Click here >
If you are terrified of white pants, then I suggest a white skirt. I'm pushing for white in the warmer months because everything pops against white - black, navy, teal, yellow and so on. It's also one of the easiest ways to stay cool as lighter fabrics absorb less heat. A fluid, A-line skirt would move with your body and would help conceal hips and thighs. Wear it with a white or navy tee and turquoise jewelry - put together and fun!
City Shorts
City shorts can be in various lengths, however, too far below the bottom on the knee and they start to chop off the line of the leg. Keep city shorts to just below, at or right above the knee. If you want to go shorter, then more power to you! (Almost everyone has heard me harp on city shorts and why they are so much better than capris, but if you haven't heard the reason, or need a refresher, CLICK HERE.)
As for what to wear with them, here are some suggestions. I like this top because the ruching throughout the middle is very flattering (gives you a waist, or highlights a natural waistline and creates a focal point on the body). This is also a neckline everyone can wear and the contrast of colors helps frame and draw attention to the face - i.e. away from other areas.
For those who aren't afraid to go sleeveless, this is a great white stretch top from Nordstrom. I love the detail in the front and the open neck. (It actually zips up the front so you won't get any pulling like you get with buttons.)
Simple, but a step up from just a sleeveless, collar, button down shirt (um, Ralph Lauren and Talbots, I am talking to you!).
Metallic Sandal
I love the idea of a metallic sandal for the summer because it will go with 
any color or any neutrals (black, brown, navy, white, tan, denim). I like this simple sandal by Michael Kors, which also comes in gold. This color is a darker metallic, but is still a neutral. The darker metallic is a sophisticated option.
I also love a summer wedge, which looks great with jeans or city shorts. This metallic wedge is also by Michael Kors and comes in silver. A wedge gives you some height, without the pain of high heels.
This flat sandal has a bit of embellishment and a comfortable rubber sole. Wear this with denim city shorts and a white 
tee. Remember, nothing elevates or says more about your style than your shoes. You can keep everything else very simple, never buy anything new, except for shoes and people will still think you look fabulous.
Day Dress
For a day dress, I envision something that's not too dressy, but something that's easy to throw on to go to the grocery store, pick up kids, or meet a 
girlfriend for lunch. A shirtdress is a classic option, but I also love a jersey dress. Jersey doesn't wrinkle, it's comfortable to wear, and much cooler when it gets to be super hot.
Here's a black and white jersey dress from Nordstrom that is easy to accessorize. Wear with a 
white or blue denim jacket and a sandals or flats - in any color. This dress would be flattering on any body type.
The other dress is also jersey and has an empire waist, but isn't super fitted which makes it easy to wear. This dress would work for an hourglass and a rectangle and again, isn't too dressy. Both of these dresses are flattering, timeless and quick options when you don't know what to wear.
Summer Bag
Lastly, a summer bag will complete your wardrobe. You can choose a summer fabric like canvas or straw, but it's not necessary. For example, here's a leather bag, but since it's in a bright color, it works for summer. 
This is from Cole Haan and reverses to a brightly printed canvas tote. It also comes in yellow and black. So fun!
Your summer wardrobe can be chic. Just stay away from capris, have a few good sandals to mix and match, a fun bag, a dress for when you don't know what else to wear, and when in doubt, white pants which will go with anything! If you need help picking out some items that are right for your body type, current wardrobe, or sense of style, then please contact me. I am happy to help.
Services
Closet Organization and Clothing Analysis - $250 for 3 hours or less; includes wardrobe guidelines and shopping list
Seasonal Closet Update - $175, a revisit for clients who have already done a Closet Organization; includes updated shopping list
**Spring items are out, so now is a great time to re-edit your wardrobe, get rid of things you aren't wearing and update your shopping list and your closet!
Personal Shopping - $60/hour to go shopping together, $75/hour if I go shopping for you
Look Book - $75
I am also available for 'What Not to Wear' Parties, corporate presentations, seminars and classes.
**Already done the fashion show but still want something fun and informative for women? I am available for fundraisers, non-profits, or speaking engagements.
***Be sure to sign up to follow me on Twitter! Click here to see my previous tweets - tips, photos and more! http://twitter.com/NoelleCellini