Style For the Summer & Your Soul
As spring fades and temperatures rise, bikini pictures and dieting trends fill social media feeds. Though eating clean is commendable, often these curated images can lead women down a path of comparison and self-hate. The fashion world is often depicted in a similarly exclusive manner. Celebrities walk the catwalk in size two silk shifts with a seemingly untouchable air. Though warm weather is joy, it can also induce dread for women who don’t fit this image. Rather than allowing them space to be themselves, culture’s constructed a narrow silhouette for how women should look.
When I think about summer, I think about embracing natural beauty. Instead of clinging onto this image of impossible perfection, let’s rest in the beauty of who we truly are.
The truth is that we are all different and beautifully so. Each person has unique curves, eyebrows, ankles, cheekbones, ear lobes, and lips. I had a beauty mark on my face that I was not particularly fond of. After I confided in one of dearest friends, she said that mole was “her favorite part about me.” These “flaws” that we fixate on are often unnoticed, sometimes they are even envied by others. So why do we constantly search for something wrong when we look in the mirror?
Shorts are a summer-must; make them your own.
When I think about summer, I think about embracing natural beauty. Though makeup can be fun, it should never be used as a curtain to hide behind. Liquid confidence is no confidence at all. Look in the mirror each morning with knowing that nothing you see needs alteration. If you’re reaching for makeup as an accessory by all means, go ahead. If you view it as a necessity, maybe it’s time to think twice.
Instead of clinging onto this image of impossible perfection, let’s rest in the beauty of who we truly are. There is so much that we can celebrate. This summer express your personality and style through your clothing. Here are some ideas on how to dress that are hopefully applicable to all different body types. Remember that clothes are meant to accessorize and accentuate the beauty that is already within you. This summer it’s time to let your outward adornments reflect your inner confidence.
Welcome Back the One-Piece
Over the past few years, the one-piece has made a definitive comeback. Keep it casual with a simple navy suit that has full-coverage and throwback feel. Add some retro flair with a black and white polka dot print and halter cut (swim-skirt optional). Introduce some edge with sheer cutouts. A sea of swimsuits: your oyster.
Covered Up Cool
The perennial white button down needs only a slight shift as seasons change. A long, drape-like cut in a soft fabric is both chic and functional. A mid-thigh or knee-length ensemble lends itself to beachwear and casual events. Dress it down with a swimsuit and sandals. Dress it up with a belt, wedges, and a statement necklace.
Sundresses are universally flattering. There are endless colors, cuts, and prints to choose from.
(Not) Your Mom’s Shorts
Trade the typical short-shorts for a sturdier, unique pair. High-waisted, thick denim shorts are retro and laid-back. White jean shorts with sunflower print are fun and flirty. Find a pair of old Levis and cut them yourself! Shorts are a summer-must; make them your own.
Sweet and Sheer
Thin shawls add flair to a simple tank or dress. A black sheer fabric embroidered with white flowers is elegant. A knit blue shrug adds a homespun feel. Sheer, ankle length versions are a current trend. Whatever your vibe, there are plenty of styles to these light layers.
Floral and Flowy
Sundresses are universally flattering. Wear a mid-calf cut with short ruffled sleeves for a wedding or garden party. Don a floral maxi, jean jacket, and sandals for a dinner out with friends. Throw on a cotton empire-waited ensemble for the beach and add a sweater when it gets cool. There are endless colors, cuts, and prints to choose from.
Show Some Shoulder
I was recently told that shoulders are the only part of a woman that doesn’t age. Regardless of whether or not this is true, showing some shoulder skin has been a recent trend. Whether it’s an off-the shoulder blouse with blue and white stripes or a pink top with draping sleeves and spaghetti straps, it’s a nice way to keep cool during the summer.
Remember that clothes are meant to accessorize and accentuate the beauty that is already within you. This summer it’s time to let your outward adornments reflect your inner confidence.
Beauty Editor | Equal Time
