Summer outfit formulas
I was struggling with my outfit the other day, because, just like in cooking, I don’t like to repeat the exact same combo twice in a week. So I came up with the idea of creating a few templates/formulas that I could use on a day when I don’t know what to wear, using basics that most of us have in our wardrobes.
So let's get to it!
White and blue
I don’t know about you, but to me this screams summer (is it because of the blue sky and white clouds on a summer day? maybe).
White top (shirt or t-shirt) paired with blue bottoms (jeans/denim shorts/denim skirt).
And the other way round: white bottom and blue top.
Tonal look
This is a classic formula that never fails in any season, whether casual or dressed up. Any monochrome look will do the trick, beige, blue, black, lilac, grey etc. One colour outfit will always look more intentional, clean and put together. The white combo below looks beautiful with tan or black accessories and shoes. No, I don’t think black looks too harsh with white. As a matter of fact, it’s one of my favourite colour combinations.
Different shades of one colour can create more interesting and dimensional look.
Black and neutrals
This could work if black and white is too much of a contrast for you. I think these two colours create a very classy and harmonious marriage, especially with gold jewellery.
When applying this formula, try and stick to 2 colours: black and shades of beige and brown for more polished look.
The right balance
Fitted shorts or a skirt always look better with an oversized flowy top (either linen shirt, t-shirt or long shirt dress) and you don’t need to worry about sweaty armpits (never a good summer look).
For summer in the city, where you don’t want to show too much skin, you can wear a long bottoms, like wide leg trousers or flowy skirt that cover your legs but, to balance it, you can show some skin on top and wear a fitted tank top, t-shirt or feminine top.
A fitted tank top gives nice balance to structured skirt and oversized linen shirt.
All in one
This is simply a dress or jumpsuit. The beauty of it is that you don’t need to think too much if the top goes with bottoms. Just put it on and you’re ready to go.
Any summer dress that you love and feel comfortable in. Just remember to wear natural and breathable fibres and your body will thank you for it.
A simple black dress paired with vintage denim jacket and tan accessories
Add a third piece
A tank top and trousers is a very basic outfit, but if you add a third element e.g. a sun hat, basket bag or an oversized linen shirt as an outer layer, you can achieve a much more interesting and complete look.
How to dress up a basic tank top. Add a linen shirt in contrasting colour complemented by black handbag and watch.
Stripes go with everything
There is really not much to say, besides that stripes really do go with everything I just mentioned. Pair your striped t-shirt with white jeans for marine look or pleated skirt for classic Parisian chic.
Go against the rules and wear black
Black looks great in summer. And I’m not talking about your beach outfit in 40 degrees Celsius. I actually prefer black in summer, because I can show more skin and thanks to lighter fabrics, like linen or cotton, the outfit isn’t overwhelming. To look and feel good in black, you need to choose your clothes wisely in terms of fit and fabrics e.g. oversized linen shirt and lyocell trousers instead of fitted polyester top or jumpsuit.
All black outfit will be more interesting and casual when paired with tan or beige accessories.
Add some jewellery
Not so much a formula but rather a trick to complete the outfit. It can be applied to any template above to make it more chic and unique to your style.
Dainty gold or silver necklace, earrings or bracelet. You can add as much or as little, it’s your personal choice. I also like materials that are typically worn in summer, like shell, stone or wood.
How lite stone and lava rock bracelets
These formulas are my personal choice for my neutral minimal style. But, I believe they can be applied to more bold wardrobe with loud accessories and more colours (floral summer dress or vintage maxi kimono).
Choose one or combine few formulas together (e.g. white and blue with some gold jewellery and denim jacket as a third piece.
Remember to have fun with your summer wardrobe. Once you have your basics, you can experiment with your style.
Here are the pieces, I use to create outfits with these formulas:
Bottoms:
White jeans
Blue denim shorts/blue denim skirt
Pleated midi skirt
Black loose trousers
Tops:
White tank top
White t-shirt
Blue cotton shirt
White/beige linen shirt
Striped t-shirt
All in one:
Black maxi dress (but you choose your favourite colour and style)
Add a third piece:
Neutral blazer (black, navy, beige)
Denim jacket
Beige jumper
Jewellery:
Gold necklace and earrings
Stone bracelets
Watch
Sunglasses
Bucket hat
