Put away your scarves and pea coats ladies, summer is upon us. Gone (for now) are the days of off-the-shoulder sweaters and knee-high boots; now is the time for sun dresses and peep-toe wedges. Although summer is my personal favorite time of year to dress for, I've noticed that young ladies who once dressed with such grace in the colder months, start to slip into something a little more "comfortable" once it's warmer out. For those who don't understand, by "comfortable" I mean slutty. Summer is when everyone should look the nicest. We're (hopefully) tan and all in prime summer shape. Never let presenting yourself in a classy way come second to showing off your body. If you dress correctly, you'll be able to show that class isn't the only asset you have going for you. Here are a couple simple ideas to look hot in the summer without looking like you're in heat.
What's better than a nice summer dress? They can make you feel fun and flirty while making you look beyond fabulous. Thankfully we have the majestic Blair Waldorf, who never fails to lead by example, to show us how great a woman can look in a classy summer dress. If you notice in the picture to the right, this dress does not show cleavage and cuts beautifully on the mid lower thigh. Cleavage is not necessarily a bad thing, nevertheless this clearly proves that you don't need to expose a lot of skin to look sexy. No one could say that Ms. Waldorf (if you think it should be a Mrs. then you clearly need to catch up on your
GG) doesn't look absolutely stunning in this dress that perfectly displays her body while staying classy. Bravo Blair.
Now, cleavage doesn't always mean skanky and showing a little skin isn't always unacceptable. Here are two rules I think a lady should follow when deciding if she's wearing too much skin.
Rule 1. Would you feel comfortable seeing what you are wearing on your mother circa her thirties. If that's a yes then you are probably okay. If that's a no- rethink.
Rule 2. Do you feel like you have more skin showing than is covered up? If so, change your outfit. Chances are you look like a street walker.
Take a look at the fabulous Lily Collins for example from a wonderful
Tatler spread. The Audrey Hepburn look-alike is positively adorable in her waist high shorts and tied up flannel. Funny Face aside, the outfit is a long way from Skanksville USA, yet shows that skin is still in! Here is a lovely pair of
high waisted shorts if you are interested, and flannels can be bought at stores like
Urban Outfitters,
Forever 21, or
Nordstrom. These can make a chic casual look that will work nice at any barbecue or just taking a stroll on the beach.
Summer is a time for the beach, bonfires, pool parties, and laughs. It's a lovely time to enjoy time with your friends on a warm beach house patio. Coats may be left at home but class definitely is not.
