How to Dress Classy in Summer: 7 Rules

Do I always look classy? – questionable. There are days when my hot-pants and thin-material crop-tops need to stay home – preferably clean and hung in my wardrobe. By the end of this article, you’ll feel confident in knowing how to dress classy in summer, without compromising all sex-appeal.

If you’re outfit is short, avoid thin straps

If I’m wearing a short garment, I try to make sure that the top half of me is more concealed. Thin straps are no-no. I prefer my shoulders covered in fabric as it also means I don’t have to worry about bra-straps or wearing a strapless bra which doesn’t feel as comfortable. If I’m trying to not look sophisticated, well I just ignore this rule.

Light and neutral colours look elegant

I am a minimal and neutral girl at heart; 95% of my wardrobe is made up of monochrome. In summer, it’s perfect to wear pastel hues – pink, ivory and turquoise. If you have to wear black like me, choosing neutral or nude accessories helps to brighten up your overall look. And then of course there’s always white. My favourite outfit of the summer so far, is this white dress with a black hat and wedges, which you can see on my post about loving criticism.

Pair formal shirts with denim

The easiest way to dress classy in summer, is to wear a crisp, white shirt. So many of my fashion icons like the lengendary Audrey Hepburn, are photographed wearing one. I felt uncomfortable buying a white shirt for the longest time, incase it appeared as though I’m heading to an office or back to school.

I took inspiration from ASOS, and wear my shirt’s half tucked in, to kind of give an extra edge. If I’m putting on jeans for work or meeting friends with a pair of denim shorts, I usually add a smart shirt to take away from the casualness of my denim.

Be wary of linen

Linen is a sustainable fabric and incredibly popular when it’s hot, due to how light it feels on the skin. However, it’s almost impossible to not crease. I would think twice about choosing where to wear and definitely avoid the mistake I made. I put a linen top wrapped neatly in my overnight bag to take round my boyfriend’s. When I came to wear it, my top looked scrunched up and messy. Trying to iron the next morning was a nightmare.

Although he spoke style is for men, they have some great tips on how to take care of linen before heading out.

Accessories change an outfit

I haven’t worn hats in quite a while. They are unbelievably underrated. Dress classy in summer – wear a hat. Not only do hats keep you cool and help stop your makeup from melting, they protect your scalp and make up for bad hair days. It’s an instant way to make an outfit look put-together.

My big tip, is to ensure your hat actually fits you. Take a friend and go hat shopping. It will remind you of when you were a child and use to try on all the accessories when your mum dragged you round clothes shops.

If you’re convinced that hats don’t suit you and my words are pointless, there’s always sunglasses. Buying a good pair is such a worthwhile investment. I recommend T.K Maxx for good quality at a good price.

It’s all about the fabric

I’ve recently got a new job as a content writer for a eco-friendly bridal company. When I had to research fabrics, I became shocked to discover that synthetic fabric is unhealthy for skin. Synthetic material doesn’t absorb sweat which means sweat just sticks on your body.

Opting for natural fabrics such as organic cotton, absorbs sweat and allows your skin to feel comfortable and breathe naturally – yes your clothes are human. Organic cotton doesn’t have to come with a huge price tag. Mango has some great organic cotton pieces on sale now at a nice price. Click here to see.

Wedges for comfortable heels

I adore wedges. They are the dream high-heel; comfortable and walkable. Wearing wedges make your legs look lean and add those extra inches to your height – if desired. They transform an outfit my day-time to dressing-up. To look at my favourite pair, read: Ankle Strap Wedges For Every Occassion.

What are your tips or rules to dress classy in summer? Are you a summer hat girl, or do you wear any other summer accessories that I haven’t mentioned?

If you loved this post, read:

• 5 Pieces to Look Summer Chic
• 10 Summer Beauty Tips
• Look Chic 24/7: Beauty Tips